The Wind Coast Route in Ceará

The Wind Coast Route in Ceará attracts sportsmen and tourists interested in the constant sunshine and good winds of the state’s coast.

Ceará has one of the most beautiful coasts in Brazil, with a variety of colours and shapes, as well as welcoming people. This route includes the municipalities of Acaraú, Caucaia, Itarema, Amontada, Itapipoca, Trairi, Paracuru, Paraipaba and São Gonçalo do Amarante.

Attractions in the region

The Wind Coast Route is also known as the Coast of the Setting Sun and has beautiful beaches, many of which are already known and loved by tourists, such as Flecheiras, Mundaú, Guajiru, Icaraí de Amontada and Praia da Baleia, among others.

Experiences and gastronomy

In addition to sporting activities, visitors can enjoy the rich local cuisine and the hospitality of the locals, making the experience even more memorable.

Kitesurfing Season – Ceará

Easily accessible and close to Fortaleza, as well as following a road that is completely doubled, the Wind Coast Route brings together some of the most beautiful beaches in the state.

The kitesurfing season in Ceará starts from July to December. During these months, the wind is constant and can reach up to 36 km/h, with gusts of up to 60 km/h at times. At this time of year, the landscape is perfect for practising sports such as kitesurfing.

Videos – Tourist information about the towns on the Wind Coast Route

Towns along the Wind Coast Route – Tourist Guide

1. Caucaia
2. São Gonçalo do Amarante
3. Paracuru
4. Paraipaba
5. Trairi
6. Itapipoca
7. Amontada
8. Itarema
9. Acaraú

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1. Caucaia

Located in the metropolitan region of Fortaleza, Caucaia is a diverse tourist destination in Ceará. The city combines stunning beaches, natural beauty and a rich local culture. Here are some of Caucaia’s main tourist attractions:

1.1 Beaches

1. Praia do Cumbuco: One of the most famous beaches in Caucaia, known for its dunes, coconut trees and lagoons. The constant winds make it a popular destination for water sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing. Buggy rides through the dunes and the famous “skibunda” (going down the dunes on a board) are other activities not to be missed.
2. Praia de Icaraí: Located near the centre of Caucaia, this is a quiet beach, ideal for families. It has an infrastructure of bars and restaurants serving typical Ceará cuisine.
3. Praia da Tabuba: A quieter and less crowded beach known for its clear waters and reefs. It’s an excellent place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Cumbuco Beach

Cumbuco Beach, located in the municipality of Caucaia, is long, with firm sand, a calm sea and many pebble pebbles near the water.

One of the special features of this beach is that it offers buggy or quad bike rides around the area, with the option of “with or without emotion”.

If you have some free time, don’t miss this tour; it takes in the beautiful Cumbuco coastline, the local dunes, the Cauípe Lagoon (where many people go kitesurfing) and can even take you as far as the Port of Pecém. Many visitors say that the buggy ride is the most fun part of Cumbuco!

Vila do Cumbuco is also a highlight for those who choose this beach as their destination. The charm of this fishing village makes a visit all the more inviting.

With several options for guesthouses and restaurants, the village is surrounded by dunes and is close to other attractions such as the Banana Lagoon and equally famous beaches such as Barra do Cauípe and Praia do Icaraí.

This scenery is complemented by cinematic dunes, orange cliffs, coconut groves and clear water lagoons, which give the destination a special touch and make for a trip full of memorable experiences.

The good winds have made Cumbuco Beach one of the best destinations in Brazil for kitesurfing and windsurfing. This has attracted many foreign fans of the sport, many of whom have decided to settle in the area, with some even opening guesthouses.

The proximity of Fortaleza, only 35 kilometres from Cumbuco Beach, means that many visitors to the capital of Ceará take the opportunity to visit beaches such as Barra do Cauípe and Icaraí.

Cumbuco Beach, being the busiest and most central, is the starting point for most tours.

1.2 Natural attractions

1. Lagoa do Banana: One of Caucaia’s main tourist attractions, Lagoa do Banana offers leisure activities such as jet-skiing, banana-boating and kayaking. The lagoon is surrounded by bars and restaurants, providing a pleasant environment in which to spend the day.
2. Alchymist Lagoa Encantada: Alchymist Lagoa Encantada, a beach club full of charm and style with the best in gastronomy, music and entertainment, has opened on the trendy beach of Cumbuco, a world paradise for kite surfing, just 30 kilometres from Fortaleza.
3. Parque Botânico do Ceará: Located in Caucaia, this park is a great option for nature lovers. It has ecological trails, picnic areas and a sensory garden. It is an ideal place for hiking and learning about the local flora.

1.3 Culture and history

1. Historic Centre of Caucaia: The city has a historic centre with churches and mansions that reflect the local history. The Mother Church of Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres is one of the main attractions.
2. Mercado Municipal: A vibrant place where visitors can sample local cuisine, buy handicrafts and observe the daily life of the locals.

1.4. Activities and leisure

1. Water Sports: Cumbuco is one of the best places in Brazil for kitesurfing and windsurfing. There are several schools and places that offer lessons and equipment hire.
2. Buggy rides: Buggy rides through the dunes of Cumbuco are one of the most exciting activities in the region, offering incredible views and lots of fun.
3. Hiking and Trails: The Ceará Botanical Park and the natural areas around Caucaia are perfect for hiking and trails, offering direct contact with nature.

Caucaia is a diverse destination that offers a combination of beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, culture and gastronomy, making it an excellent choice for holidaymakers who want to explore the Ceará coast and enjoy a complete and enriching experience.

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2. São Gonçalo do Amarante

São Gonçalo do Amarante, near the metropolitan region of Fortaleza, Ceará, is a city that combines natural beauty, history and culture. Here are some of the main tourist attractions in São Gonçalo do Amarante:

2.1 Beaches

1. Praia do Pecém: Known for its calm waters and tourist infrastructure, Praia do Pecém is popular for swimming, water sports and walks along the seafront. The presence of the Port of Pecém also makes this area of great economic importance.
2. Praia de Taíba: Famous for its waves, Taíba is a popular destination for surfers and kite surfers. In addition, the beach has a charming village with inns, restaurants and bars that provide a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

2.2 Natural attractions

1. Dunes: The region has several dunes that are perfect for buggying and sand boarding, and offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
2. Lagoons: The Lagoons of São Gonçalo do Amarante are ideal for a day of relaxation and leisure in the midst of nature.

2.3 Culture and History

1. Igreja Matriz de São Gonçalo do Amarante: One of the most important historic buildings in the city, with architecture dating back to the colonial period.
2. Historic Centre: Small streets and squares that preserve local history and culture, where you can learn more about the city’s foundation and development.

2.4 Activities and leisure

1. Water sports: The region’s beaches are ideal for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing, with schools and centres offering equipment and lessons.
2. Buggy Riding: Exploring the dunes and beaches by buggy is a popular tourist activity, offering adventure and beautiful scenery.
3. Artisanal Fishing: Fishing is a traditional activity in São Gonçalo do Amarante, and visitors can observe and learn about local fishing techniques.

São Gonçalo do Amarante offers a combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, culture and history, making it an interesting destination for both adventure seekers and those who want to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the Ceará coast.

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3. Paracuru

Paracuru, located on the west coast of Ceará, is a charming city that offers a mix of beautiful beaches, rich local culture and diverse leisure activities. Here are some of Paracuru’s main tourist attractions:

3.1 Beaches

1. Praia de Paracuru: The main beach of the city is known for its clear waters, reefs and natural pools formed at low tide. Ideal for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing.
2. Praia do Ronco do Mar: Popular with surfers for its good waves, this beach is also excellent for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
3. Praia das Almas: A quiet, uncrowded beach, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
4. Praia da Pedra Rachada: Known for its unique rock formations and natural beauty, this is a great place to explore and take photographs.

3.2 Natural attractions

1. Dunes: Paracuru’s dunes are the perfect setting for buggying and sandboarding, and offer spectacular panoramic views.
2. Lagoons: The region’s lagoons, such as Lagoa do Curu, are great for kayaking, picnics and freshwater swimming.

3.3 Activities and Leisure

1. Water Sports: Paracuru is a popular destination for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing, with several schools and locations offering lessons and equipment hire.
2. Buggy rides: Exploring the dunes and beaches by buggy is an exciting activity that allows you to get to know the natural beauty of the region.
3. Artisanal Fishing: By accompanying local fishermen, tourists can learn about and even participate in traditional fishing techniques.
4. Trails and Walks: There are several trails throughout the region that allow visitors to explore the local flora and fauna.

3.4 Culture and History

1. Historic Centre: Paracuru has a charming historic centre with churches, squares and colonial houses that reflect the local history and culture.
2. Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios: One of the oldest and most important buildings in the city, located in the historic centre.

Paracuru is a destination that caters for all types of holidaymakers, from those looking for adventure and water sports to those who want to relax on paradisiacal beaches and explore the local culture. With its natural beauty and warm welcome, Paracuru is an excellent choice for those visiting the Ceará coast.

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4. Paraipaba

Paraipaba, located on the west coast of Ceará, is a tourist destination that enchants with its paradisiacal beaches, dunes, lagoons and cosy atmosphere.

The city is best known for its famous Lagoinha beach, but it has much more to offer visitors. Here are the main tourist attractions of Paraipaba:

4.1 Beaches

1. Lagoinha Beach: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, Lagoinha is known for its crystal clear waters, reddish cliffs, dunes and coconut trees. The panoramic views from the beach are breathtaking and it’s an ideal place to relax, swim and practice water sports.

4.2. Natural attractions

1. Lagoinha Dunes: The dunes are one of the main attractions of Lagoinha. The dune buggy rides are exciting and offer incredible panoramic views. Another popular activity is skibunda, which involves sliding down the dunes on wooden planks.
2. Lagoa das Almécegas: Located next to Lagoinha beach, this lagoon is perfect for relaxing swims and rafting. The lagoon is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers visitors a peaceful environment.
3. Lagoa do Jegue: Another charming lagoon in the region, known for its clear, calm waters. It’s a great place for water activities and family fun.

4.3 Activities and leisure

1. Buggy rides : In addition to the dunes, buggy rides include visits to viewpoints, lagoons and other tourist attractions around Paraipaba. It’s an exciting activity that allows you to explore the natural beauty of the region.
2. Water sports: The beaches of Paraipaba, especially Lagoinha, are ideal for kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding, thanks to the constant and favourable winds.
3. Walking and Trails: The region offers several ecological trails that allow visitors to explore the local flora and fauna, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the coastal landscapes.

4.4 Culture and history

1. Paraipaba Historic Centre: The city has a historic centre with churches and buildings that reflect the local history and culture. The Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição is one of the main landmarks.

Paraipaba is a charming destination that offers a combination of stunning beaches, outdoor activities, culture and gastronomy, making it an excellent choice for holidaymakers who want to explore the Ceará coast and enjoy an authentic and unforgettable experience.

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5. Trairi

Located on the west coast of Ceará, Trairi is a charming town known for its stunning beaches, natural beauty and tranquillity. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to relax, enjoy nature and explore the local culture. Here are some of Trairi’s main tourist attractions:

5.1 Beaches

1. Flecheiras Beach: One of Trairi’s most famous beaches, Flecheiras is known for its natural pools at low tide, crystal clear waters and reefs. It is an excellent place for snorkelling, swimming and rafting. The fishing village has a cosy atmosphere with inns, restaurants and bars.
2. Praia de Guajiru: This beach is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. With its white sand and coconut trees, Guajiru is perfect for walking, swimming and relaxing. It is also popular with kite surfers due to its favourable winds.
3. Mundaú Beach: Known for its natural beauty and where the river meets the sea, Mundaú is ideal for boat trips offering panoramic views of the dunes and mangroves. The calm waters and dunes make this beach an excellent destination for the whole family.
4. Praia de Emboaca: A more secluded and wild beach, perfect for those looking for a quiet retreat in direct contact with nature.

5.2 Natural attractions

1. Dunes: Trairi’s dunes are perfect for buggying, sand boarding and walking. They offer breathtaking views and are a great place to watch the sunset.
2. Mangroves: The mangroves of Mundaú are rich in biodiversity and can be explored on boat trips where you can observe the local fauna and flora.

5.3 Activities and Leisure

1. Water sports: Flecheiras and Guajiru are popular destinations for kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding, thanks to the constant and favourable winds.
2. Buggy rides: Exploring the dunes and beaches by buggy is an exciting activity and allows you to get to less accessible areas.
3. Boat Trips: Boat trips on the Mundaú River are a relaxing way to explore the region, offering incredible views of dunes, mangroves and the confluence of river and sea.
4. Artisanal Fishing: Accompanying local fishermen, tourists can learn about and even participate in traditional fishing techniques.

5.4 Culture and history

1. Fishermen’s Village: The fishing villages of Flecheiras and Mundaú offer an authentic experience of the local culture, with opportunities to get to know the way of life of the fishermen and their families.
2. Local Handicrafts: Trairi is famous for its handicrafts, including lace, ceramics and straw items, which make excellent souvenirs and gifts.

Trairi is an ideal destination for those seeking the perfect combination of tranquillity, natural beauty and local culture. With its paradisiacal beaches, outdoor activities and welcoming hospitality, Trairi offers an unforgettable experience on the Ceará coast.

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6. Itapipoca

Itapipoca, located in the interior of Ceará, is a city known for its natural beauty, diverse ecosystems and rich local culture.

Although not as famous as other cities in Ceará, Itapipoca offers visitors a variety of tourist attractions. Here are some of the main tourist attractions in Itapipoca:

6.1 Natural attractions

1. Serra de Uruburetama: One of the natural highlights of Itapipoca, the Serra de Uruburetama offers ecological trails, panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls and a rich biodiversity. It is an ideal place for hiking, birdwatching and getting in touch with nature.
2. Lagoa das Moças: A beautiful lagoon surrounded by greenery, perfect for a day of leisure. Visitors can swim, picnic and enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings.
3. Beaches: Although Itapipoca is not a coastal town, it is relatively close to some of the beaches on the west coast of Ceará, such as Praia da Baleia in Itapipoca, known for its calm waters and paradisiacal setting.

6.2 Culture and history

1. Historic Centre: The centre of Itapipoca is full of historic buildings, churches and squares that reflect the city’s rich history and culture. The Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião is one of the main landmarks.
2. Itapipoca Museum: The local museum offers exhibitions on the history and culture of Itapipoca, including artefacts, photographs and historical documents.

6.3 Activities and Leisure

1. Walking and hiking: The natural areas around Itapipoca are ideal for walking and hiking, allowing direct contact with the local flora and fauna.
2. Adventure Sports: The Serra de Uruburetama is a popular place for adventure sports such as abseiling and climbing, due to its rock formations and challenging landscapes.

6.4 Tips for visitors

• Climate: Itapipoca has a hot and humid climate, with a rainy season between February and May. It is important to be prepared for the heat and humidity.
• Transport: The city is well connected by road and can be reached from Fortaleza in about 2 hours by car.

Itapipoca is a diverse destination offering a combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, culture and gastronomy, making it an excellent choice for tourists wishing to explore the interior of Ceará and enjoy an authentic and enriching experience.

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7. Amontada

Amontada, located on the west coast of Ceará, is a city that combines beautiful beaches, lush nature and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking relaxation and contact with the local culture. Here are some of Amontada’s main tourist attractions:

7.1 Beaches

1. Praia de Icaraí de Amontada (Icaraizinho): The main beach in the region, known for its calm waters, coconut groves and peaceful atmosphere. It is a popular destination for kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddling due to the constant and favourable winds.
2. Moitas Beach: A lovely, less crowded beach, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The calm waters and picturesque scenery make it ideal for relaxing and swimming.
3. Praia de Caetanos de Cima: A more secluded and unspoilt beach with dunes and coconut trees, offering an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.

7.2 Natural attractions

1. Dunes and Lagoons: The region has several dunes and lagoons that are perfect for buggying, sand boarding and hiking. The lagoons, such as Lagoa das Flexeiras, are ideal for swimming and picnics.
2. Mangroves: The region’s mangroves are rich in biodiversity and can be explored on boat trips, providing an opportunity to observe local fauna and flora.

7.3 Activities and Leisure

1. Water sports: Icaraí de Amontada is a popular destination for kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding, with several schools and centres offering lessons and equipment hire.
2. Buggy rides: Exploring the dunes and beaches by buggy is an exciting activity that allows you to get to know the natural beauty of the region.
3. Boat Trips: Boat trips through the mangroves and along the coast are a relaxing way to explore the area, offering incredible views and the chance to observe marine life.
4. Artisanal Fishing: Accompanying local fishermen, visitors can learn about and even participate in traditional fishing techniques.

7.4 Culture and history

1. Fishermen’s Villages: The fishing villages of Icaraí de Amontada and Moitas offer an authentic experience of the local culture, with opportunities to learn about the way of life of the fishermen and their families.
2. Local Handicrafts: Amontada is known for its handicrafts, including lace, ceramics and straw items, which make excellent souvenirs and gifts.

Amontada is an ideal destination for those seeking a combination of tranquillity, natural beauty and local culture. With its paradisiacal beaches, outdoor activities and welcoming hospitality, Amontada offers an unforgettable experience on the Ceará coast.

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8. Itarema

Itarema, located on the west coast of Ceará, is an emerging tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, dunes, lagoons and tranquil atmosphere.

The city offers various leisure activities and contact with nature, making it an excellent destination for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Here are the main tourist attractions in Itarema:

8.1. The beaches

1. Almofala Beach: One of the most famous in Itarema, famous for its tranquillity, natural beauty and the traditional Almofala Church, which was buried by sand and then rebuilt. It’s a great place to relax, swim and stroll along the seafront.
2. Patos Beach: A more secluded and rustic beach, ideal for those looking for a peaceful environment and contact with nature. The waters are calm and the scenery enchanting.
3. Praia de Torrões: Known for its crystal clear waters and tranquillity, it is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy nature without too much traffic.

8.2 Lagoons and dunes

1. Lagoa de Jijoca: Located near Itarema, this lagoon is renowned for its clear, calm waters. It is an ideal place for water sports such as stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking, and is perfect for a family day out.
2. Dunes of Itarema: The dunes in the region offer an impressive landscape and are perfect for buggy rides and activities such as “skibunda”, which consists of sliding down the dunes on wooden planks.

8.3 Water sports

1. Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: Itarema, especially the Almofala area, is renowned for its excellent kitesurfing and windsurfing conditions due to the constant and favourable winds. Several local companies offer lessons and equipment hire.

8.4 Culture and history

1. Almofala Church: The historic church of Almofala is an important cultural and historical landmark. Originally built by the Jesuits, the church was partially buried by dunes and rebuilt. It is a place of great historical and religious importance.
2. Tremembé Indigenous Community: Itarema is home to the Tremembé indigenous community, who keep their traditions and culture alive. Visiting the community can be an enriching learning experience about the local indigenous culture.

8.5 Tips for visitors

• Climate: Itarema has a hot and humid climate with a rainy season between February and May. It is important to be prepared for the heat and humidity.
• Transport: The city is well connected by road and can be reached from Fortaleza in about 2 to 3 hours by car.

Itarema is a charming destination that offers a combination of beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, culture and gastronomy, making it an excellent choice for holidaymakers wishing to explore the west coast of Ceará and enjoy an authentic and peaceful experience.

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9. Acaraú

Acaraú, located on the west coast of Ceará, is a city rich in history, culture and natural beauty. It offers a variety of attractions to delight visitors, from paradisiacal beaches to historical heritage and outdoor activities. Here are some of Acaraú’s main tourist attractions:

9.1 Beaches

1. Arpoeiras Beach: One of the most famous beaches in Acaraú, Arpoeiras is ideal for those seeking peace and contact with nature. Its calm waters and coconut trees are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
2. Praia de Barrinha: A more secluded and unspoilt beach, known for its dunes and mangroves. It’s a great place for hiking and for those who like a wilder environment.
3. Praia de Córrego das Varas: A beach of rustic beauty, where you can observe the daily life of fishermen and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

9.2 Natural attractions

1. Rio Acaraú: The river that gives the city its name is one of the main natural attractions. Boat trips along the river are a great way to explore the region and observe the local fauna and flora.
2. Mangroves: Mangroves are ecosystems rich in biodiversity and can be explored on eco-tours, offering the chance to see crabs, birds and other species.

9.3 Culture and History

1. Historic Centre: Acaraú has a historic centre with churches, squares and mansions that reflect the city’s rich history and culture. The Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição is one of the architectural highlights.
2. Mercado Municipal: A vibrant place where visitors can sample local cuisine, buy handicrafts and observe the daily life of the locals.
3. Museu de Acaraú: The local museum offers an insight into the history and culture of the town, with exhibitions of artefacts, photographs and historical documents.

9.4 Activities and leisure

1. Craft Fishing: Accompanying local fishermen, tourists can learn traditional fishing techniques and take part in this centuries-old activity.
2. Boat Trips: Exploring the Acaraú River and mangroves by boat is a relaxing and educational activity that offers a new perspective on the region.
3. Walking and Trails: The natural areas around Acaraú are perfect for walking and trails, offering direct contact with nature.

Acaraú is a destination that offers a rich combination of natural beauty, history and culture, making it the perfect place for tourists looking for an authentic and varied experience on the coast of Ceará.

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