South Coast of Alagoas

Tourist Attractions of the South Coast of Alagoas

The South Coast of Alagoas is equally enchanting and offers a variety of tourist attractions, from paradisiacal beaches to historic villages and ecotourism opportunities.

1. Praia do Francês

  • Location: Near the town of Marechal Deodoro, about 20 kilometres south of Maceió.
  • Description: One of the most famous beaches in Alagoas, known for its clear, warm waters, ideal for water sports such as surfing and stand-up paddle boarding.

2. Gunga Beach

  • Location: Located in Barra de São Miguel, about 35 kilometres south of Maceió.
  • Description: Known for its impressive stretch of sand surrounded by coconut trees and colourful cliffs.
  • Activities: Buggy rides, banana boats and stand-up paddling are popular. Gunga Viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views of the beach and cliffs.

3. Barra de São Miguel

  • Description: A charming, quiet village with beautiful beaches of calm waters protected by reefs forming natural pools.
  • Activities: Boat trips to Praia do Gunga and snorkelling in the natural pools.

4. Mundaú Lagoon and Manguaba Lagoon

  • Location: Near the city of Marechal Deodoro.
  • Description: The two largest lagoons in Alagoas, connected by canals and mangroves, offer a rich biodiversity.
  • Activities: Boat trips, fishing and wildlife watching are popular. The region is also excellent for water sports.

5. Marechal Deodoro

  • History: Historic city and first capital of Alagoas, birthplace of Marechal Deodoro da Fonseca, proclaimer of the Republic of Brazil.
  • What to see: The historic centre has baroque churches, colonial mansions and museums. Highlights include São Gonçalo do Amarante Church and São Francisco Monastery.
  • Praia do Francês: As well as the historic town, Marechal Deodoro also has the famous Praia do Francês.

6. Pontal do Peba

  • Location: In the parish of Piaçabuçu, near the mouth of the São Francisco River.
  • Description: A long, quiet beach, ideal for those seeking peace and contact with nature.
  • Activities: Boat trips on the São Francisco River, bird watching and exploring the region’s shifting dunes.

7. Coruripe

  • Beaches: Coruripe has several beautiful beaches, such as Praia de Lagoa do Pau and Praia do Pontal de Coruripe, known for their clear waters and coral reefs.
  • Coruripe Lighthouse: An iconic tourist attraction that offers beautiful views of the sea and surrounding beaches.

8. Jequiá da Praia

  • Lagoa de Jequiá: A large lagoon surrounded by mangroves and dunes, ideal for boat trips and observing the local fauna.
  • Jacarecica do Sul Beach: A secluded, quiet beach, perfect for those who want to relax in the midst of nature.

9. Culture and Gastronomy

  • Gastronomy: The south coast of Alagoas is famous for its seafood cuisine. Typical dishes include sururu, peixada, caldeirada and the famous tapioca.
  • Fairs and Markets: Local markets and craft fairs offer regional products such as lace, ceramics and products made from coconut palm straw.

10. Tips for visiting

  • Best Time: The dry season, from September to March, is the best time to visit the south coast of Alagoas, making the most of the sunshine and outdoor activities.