Pernambuco's best beaches and their attractions

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Pernambuco’s must-see beaches: Destinations in Fernando de Noronha and along the coast

Pernambuco is one of the most exuberant and expressive states in the Northeast, not only for the beauty of its beaches, but also for its strong culture.

Praia dos Carneiros no litoral de Pernambuco. — Carneiros Beach on the coast of Pernambuco.

European colonisation left its mark on the culture, cuisine, architecture and especially music, with regional rhythms such as maracatu, xote and baião, as well as the manguebeat movement, which represents a regional counter-culture.

Mapa do litoral de Pernambuco — Map of Pernambuco’s coastline

Importance of the beaches

The beaches of Pernambuco and Fernando de Noronha are major attractions and have a major influence on tourism in the region.

With their vibrant blue or green waters, pleasant climate and diverse environments, these beaches attract thousands of visitors seeking relaxation and adventure.

The best beaches of Pernambuco and Fernando de Noronha

7 melhores praias do litoral de Pernambuco

1. Beaches and swimming pools in the parish of São José da Coroa Grande

São José da Coroa Grande, located 114 kilometres from Pernambuco’s capital, Recife, is a municipality on the south coast of Pernambuco.

São José da Coroa Grande em Pernambuco — São José da Coroa Grande, Pernambuco

Its beaches, located on the coral coast, are known for their extensive sand and reefs, forming famous natural pools.

1.1 São José da Coroa Grande beach

The municipality’s main beach, Praia de São José da Coroa Grande, is famous for its “coroas”, rock formations that emerge at low tide, creating marvellous natural pools. Rafting trips to these pools are a popular attraction.

Praia de São José da Coroa Grande PE — São José da Coroa Grande PE Beach

1.2 Gravatá beach

Praia do Gravatá, known for its white sand and calm waters, is accessible by a path from the village of Abreu do Una. Historically, sugar was transported by locomotive to the port of Gravatá.

Praia do Gravatá em São José da Coroa Grande PE — Gravatá beach in São José da Coroa Grande PE

2. Coroa do Avião Island in Igarassu

Coroa do Avião Island is a small island in Igarassu, about 560 metres long.

Ilha Coroa do Avião em Pernambuco — Coroa do Avião Island, Pernambuco

With rich vegetation and many buildings, the island is famous for its landscapes and sunsets.

3. Atalaia beach in Fernando de Noronha

Atalaia Beach, in the Fernando de Noronha archipelago, is protected by reefs that form a natural pool at low tide. Access is controlled by the Chico Mendes Institute.

Praia do Atalaia em Fernando de Noronha — Atalaia beach in Fernando de Noronha

4. Porto de Galinhas in Ipojuca

Porto de Galinhas is one of the most famous beaches in the northeast, known for its extensive reefs. Located about 50 kilometres from Recife, it was formerly called Porto Rico.

Porto de Galinhas em Pernambuco — Porto de Galinhas in Pernambuco

4.1 Natural pools

The Raft to the natural pools is one of the main attractions of Porto de Galinhas. It’s important to consult the Tide Table to ensure the best time to visit.

Piscinas Naturais de Porto de Galinhas em Pernambuco — Porto de Galinhas natural pools in Pernambuco

4.2 Buggy ride

A buggy ride along the beaches of Porto de Galinhas is an excellent way to explore the region.

5. Carneiros beach in Tamandaré

Located about 50 kilometres from Port de Galinhas, Praia dos Carneiros is known for its meeting of the waters of the Rio Formoso with the sea.

Praia dos Carneiros em Pernambuco — Carneiros beach in Pernambuco

6. Bay of Pigs, Fernando de Noronha

The Bay of Pigs, with its volcanic rocks and emerald-green waters, is an excellent snorkelling spot.

Baía dos Porcos em Fernando de Noronha — Bay of Pigs, Fernando de Noronha

7. Sancho Beach in Fernando de Noronha

Sancho Beach is famous for its coral reefs and rich marine fauna. Access is via a narrow staircase, but the beauty of the place is well worth the effort.

Praia do Sancho em Fernando de Noronha — Sancho Beach in Fernando de Noronha

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 24/03/2021 · Updated on 19/05/2025