Marapé Dunes: nature and adventure on the coast of Jequiá da Praia (AL)
Attractions in Jequiá da Praia (Alagoas)
The indigenous name Jequiá da Praia means “basket with many fish”, reflecting the strong local connection with fishing and natural resources. The municipality is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and several lagoons, including the Jequiá lagoon, as well as mangroves and streams that form a lake complex.
Jequiá Lagoon is one of the largest in the region, and in the village of Duas Barras the lagoon meets the ocean, flanked by mangroves. Lagoa Azeda has stronger currents, which are unfavourable for some water sports. The beaches of Pituba and Jacarecica do Sul remain almost untouched.
Video about the Tourist Attractions of Jequiá da Praia
Dunas de Marapé e Jequiá da Praia03:02
Dunas de Marapé e Jequiá da Praia04:58
Atrações turísticas no município de Jequiá da Praia
Attractions in Jequiá da Praia and the Marapé Dunes Tourist Complex
- Barra do Jequiá Beach — white sand and clear waters, near the mouth of the Jequiá River.
- Marapé Dunes Tourist Complex — where the river meets the lagoon and the sea; dunes and cliffs; facilities include a restaurant, kiosks and a guesthouse.
- Jequiá Lagoon — boat trip and wildlife watching.
- Mangroves — boat trips to observe the coastal ecosystem.
- Caetés Trail — route for observing fauna, flora and traditional crab catching.
- Pau de Arara Circuit — route along cliffs to Jacarecica do Sul, with beaches and lagoons for swimming.
Marapé Dunes Tourist Complex
- Location and access: The Marapé Dunes Complex is located in the Duas Barras region, in Jequiá da Praia. Crossing the Jequiá River by raft/boat is mandatory and part of the experience.
- Distance: approximately 60 km from Maceió via the AL-101 South (varies depending on the starting point).
- Facilities: seafood restaurant, kiosks, viewpoint, simple guesthouse and local shops; buggy rides and trails are available through regional operators.
- Dunes: there are dunes and cliffs, but not giant desert-like dunes — the name highlights the diverse landscape (dunes, cliffs, lagoon, river and sea).
- Costs and crossing: prices vary depending on the operator; please confirm locally before your visit.
- Tides: at low tide, natural pools form; at high tide, the sea can become rough and swimming in the river is usually safer.
Main points of the complex
- Car park
- Marapé Dunes Inn
- Viewpoint
- Seafront bar with live music
- Seafood buffet restaurant
- Arrival point at the port for crossing
- Where the river meets the sea (visible at high tide)
- Dunas de Marapé Shop
- Indian’s hut
- Altar of Our Lady
Practical tips
- Check crossing times and prices before you go.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and cash; not all establishments accept cards.
- Consult the tide table to enjoy the natural pools at low tide.
Plan your visit to the Marapé Dunes today — consult local operators for crossings and tours, book your accommodation, and experience the unique encounter between river, lagoon, and sea in Jequiá da Praia.
This post is also on:
Português 
English 
Deutsch 
Español 
Français
