Discover the wonders of the South Coast of Rio Grande do Norte: Beaches, Attractions and Unforgettable Experiences

The South Coast of Rio Grande do Norte is a true paradise, full of dunes, lagoons, coconut palms, beaches with cliffs and a sea that, protected by stretches of coral, forms pleasant natural pools at low tide.

Access and Towns

This stunning region is easily accessible via the Rota do Sol (RN-063), which runs along the coast from Natal to Pipa. Along the way you’ll find urbanised beaches such as Pirangi do Norte and do Sul, as well as more deserted areas such as Búzios, Barra de Tabatinga, Guaraíras, Tibau do Sul, do Madeiro and do Curral.

For those who want to go directly to the famous Praia da Pipa, the best access is via the BR-101 motorway.

The region includes the municipalities of Parnamirim and Nísia Floresta, the latter famous for its rich handicrafts, as well as Tibau do Sul and Canguaretama.

Canguaretama has the old Engenho Cunhaú, active in the first half of the 17th century, and the village of Vila Flor, with 18th century houses.

Videos – What to do on the south coast of RN

Tourist Attractions and Beaches of the South Coast of RN

1. Barra de Tabatinga – Goiânia
2. Barra de Cunhaú – Canguaretama
3. Baía Formosa – Baía Formosa
4. Barreta beach – Nísia Floresta
5. Búzios beach – Nísia Floresta
6. Camurupim beach – Nísia Floresta
7. Cacimbinhas beach – Tibau do Sul
8. Cotovelo beach – Parnamirim
9. Guaraíras Lagoon – Tibau do Sul
10. Carcará Lagoon – Nísia Floresta
11. Malembá Beach – Georgino Avelino
12. Pirangi do Norte and Sul – Parnamirim
13. Ponta do Madeiro – Tibau do Sul
14. Sagi beach – Baía de Formosa
15. Sibaúma beach – Tibau do Sul
16. Handicrafts by Nísia Floresta
17. Pipa Beach – Tibau do Sul
18. Praia do Amor – Tibau do Sul
19. Ecological Sanctuary of Pipa
20. Buggy ride to Paraíba

1. Barra de Tabatinga – Goiânia

The Dolphin Lookout, located on a cliff, offers the opportunity to watch dolphins at high tide.

The Arituba Lagoon is perfect for pedalos and kayaks, and also offers zip lining. Visitors can enjoy delicious seafood dishes from stalls along the lagoon.

2. Barra de Cunhaú – Canguaretama

With calm waters due to the river that flows into the sea, the beach gives the impression of a lagoon. It is ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and jet skiing.

The local Yachting Club organises leisure activities such as boat trips and sailing lessons.

3. Formosa Bay – Baía Formosa

Mata Estrela, RN’s largest Atlantic Forest Reserve, is home to endangered species and a great place for hiking and birdwatching.

The Araraquara Lagoon, known as the Coca-Cola Lagoon because of its dark colour, is famous for its reputed medicinal properties.

4. Barreta Beach – Nísia Floresta

Known for its calm waters and mangroves, it is a peaceful place to relax. Visitors can explore the area by kayak.

5. Búzios beach – Nísia Floresta

Famous for its waves and winds, it is one of the favourite destinations for surfers and windsurfers. The beach is ideal for those looking for thrills and adventure.

6. Camurupim beach – Nísia Floresta

With reefs forming natural pools, it is ideal for relaxing swims and for families with children.

7. Cacimbinhas Beach – Tibau do Sul

For those who want to paraglide, it has a long staircase leading down to the seafront.

The beach is also a great spot for kitesurfing, especially for the more experienced due to the constant winds.

8. Cotovelo Beach – Parnamirim

Known for its cliffs and tranquillity, this beach is popular with local holidaymakers.

Visitors can enjoy horseback riding on the sand or relax in the kiosks by the sea.

9. Guaraíras Lagoon – Tibau do Sul

It offers boat trips and is essential for shrimp farming, with stalls serving typical coastal cuisine. Visitors can go fishing or canoeing.

10. Carcará Lagoon – Nísia Floresta

Its clean, warm waters are perfect for windsurfing and kayaking. Visitors can also picnic on the quiet shores of the lagoon.

11. Malembá beach – Georgino Avelino

A deserted beach, ideal for relaxing and practising sand sports such as sandboarding and dune buggying.

12. Pirangi do Norte e Sul – Parnamirim

Known for the largest cashew tree in the world, this is the beach most frequented by holidaymakers. The boat trip around the tourist complex is very popular, allowing snorkelling in the parrachos.

13. Ponta do Madeiro – Tibau do Sul

Famous for its dolphins and surfing courses, with access via a staircase surrounded by vegetation. It’s a great place to practice stand-up paddle boarding in calm waters.

14. Sagi Beach – Formosa Bay

The last beach on the south coast, ideal for sandboarding and rafting down the Guajú River. Visitors can also enjoy mud baths, which are considered rejuvenating.

15. Sibaúma Beach – Tibau do Sul

Sprawling and deserted, this fishing village is perfect for those seeking tranquillity. Tourists can explore the local culture by chatting with the fishermen.

16. Handicrafts in Nísia Floresta

Famous for its handmade lace and cachaça. The Associação de Labirinteiras de Campo de Santana and the Associação de Rendeiras de Alcaçuz promote traditional local handicrafts, where visitors can learn the techniques.

17. Pipa Beach – Tibau do Sul

A popular destination with a vibrant nightlife and natural beauty, the beach is famous for its cliffs and natural pools. Visitors can take boat trips and watch the dolphins.

18. Praia do Amor – Tibau do Sul

Considered excellent for surfing, its name comes from a heart-shaped cliff. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the sunset.

19. Pipa Ecological Reserve

A protected area with trails and rich biodiversity, where the use of insect repellent is recommended during walks. Visitors can join guided tours to learn more about the local flora.

20. Buggy ride to Paraíba

It offers incredible views and access to the region’s paradisiacal beaches, including Mata Estrela and the Sagi River. The tour is a great way to discover the diversity of the coastline and its natural beauty.

The RN South Coast is a destination that combines natural beauty, adventure and culture, guaranteeing unforgettable experiences for all types of holidaymakers.

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