Exploring the Wind Coast Route in Ceará: A Paradise for kitesurfing

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The Wind Coast Route or Rota Costa dos Ventos in Ceará attracts sportsmen and tourists interested in the constant sunshine and good winds of the state’s coastline, as Ceará has one of the most beautiful coastlines in Brazil, with a variety of colours and shapes, as well as welcoming people and includes the municipalities of Acaraú, Caucaia, Itarema, Amontada, Itapipoca, Trairi, Paracuru, Paraipaba and São Gonçalo do Amarante.

The region is also known as the “Costa do Sol Poente” (Coast of the Setting Sun). It 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.

Praia de Cumbuco no Ceará
The Wind Coast Route – Cumbuco Beach in Ceará

Wind Coast Route is easily accessible and close to Fortaleza, as well as following a road that is being completely dualised, the Costa dos Ventos Route brings together some of the most beautiful beaches in the state.

Mapa da Costa dos Ventos no Ceará
Map of the Wind Coast Route in Ceará
From July to December, the kitesurfing season begins in Ceará. During these months, the winds blow constantly, reaching up to 36 km/h, while short-term gusts can reach up to 60 km/h. At this time the perfect setting for practitioners of sports such as kitesurfing.

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

Cities on the Wind Coast Route in Ceará  – Tourist Guide

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

1. Caucaia

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

Cumbuco beach in the municipality of Caucaia is long, with firm sand, a calm sea and plenty of pebbles near the water.

A special feature of this beach is that it offers a buggy or quad bike ride around the area, which you can choose between “with or without emotion”.

If you have some free time, take this tour; it passes along the beautiful Cumbuco coastline, through the dunes of the region, by the Cauípe Lagoon (where many people go kitesurfing) and can go as far as the Port of Pecém.Many visitors say that the buggy ride is the coolest part of Cumbuco! Vila do Cumbuco is another speciality for those who visit the beach.

The charm of the fishing village makes the visit even more inviting.

Full of options for inns and restaurants, it is surrounded by dunes and is close to other attractions, such as the Banana Lagoon, and beaches as well-known as Barra do Cauípe and Icaraí.

Added to this scenery are cinematic dunes, orange cliffs, coconut groves and lagoons with clear waters, giving the destination a spectacular tone and promoting a trip full of unforgettable experiences.

The good winds have made Cumbuco Beach one of the best destinations in Brazil for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

This has led to a number of foreign fans of the sport deciding to settle here (some have even opened inns). The small village is surrounded by dunes and beautiful landscapes, such as the Banana Lagoon.

The proximity of Fortaleza to Cumbuco beach – 35 kilometres away – means that many visitors to the capital of Ceará stop off at beaches such as Barra do Cauipe and Icaraí.

The busiest and most centralised is Praia do Cumbuco, the starting point for most of the tours.

1.2 Natural Attractions

  1. Lagoa do Banana: One of Caucaia’s main tourist attractions, Lagoa do Banana offers leisure options such as jet skiing, banana boating and kayaking. The lagoon is surrounded by bars and restaurants that provide a pleasant environment in which to spend the day.
  2. Alchymist Lagoa Encantada: On trendy Cumbuco Beach, a world kite surfing paradise, just 30 kilometres from Fortaleza, Alchymist Lagoa Encantada has opened, a beach club full of charm and style with the best in gastronomy, music and entertainment.
  3. Ceará Botanical Park: Located in Caucaia, this park is a great option for those who love nature. It has ecological trails, picnic areas and a sensory garden. It is an ideal place for walks and for 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 Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres is one of the main landmarks.
  2. Municipal Market: A vibrant place where visitors can sample the 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. Walks and Trails: The Ceará Botanical Park and the natural areas around Caucaia are perfect for walks 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 wishing to explore the Ceará coast and enjoy a complete and enriching experience.

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 an area of great economic importance.
  2. Taíba Beach: Famous for its waves, Taíba is a popular destination for surfers and kitesurfers. In addition, the beach offers a charming village with inns, restaurants and bars, providing a cosy atmosphere for visitors.

2.2 Natural Attractions

  1. Dunes: The region has several dunes that are perfect for buggy rides and sandboarding, offering stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
  2. Lagoons: The lagoons of São Gonçalo do Amarante are ideal places for a day of rest and leisure in the midst of nature.

2.3 Culture and History

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

2.4 Activities and Leisure

  1. Water Sports: The region’s beaches are ideal for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing, with schools and venues offering equipment and lessons.
  2. Buggy rides: Exploring the dunes and beaches by buggy is a popular activity among holidaymakers, offering adventure and beautiful scenery.
  3. Artisanal Fishing: Fishing is a traditional activity in São Gonçalo do Amarante, and visitors can follow 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 tranquillity of the Ceará coast.

3. Paracuru

Paracuru, located on the west coast of Ceará, is a charming town 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. Paracuru Beach: The town’s main beach is known for its clear waters, reefs and natural pools formed at low tide. It is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing.
  2. Praia do Ronco do Mar: Popular with surfers due to its good waves, this beach is also excellent for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
  3. Praia das Almas: A quiet and uncrowded beach, ideal for those looking for peace and quiet and a more reserved atmosphere.
  4. Praia da Pedra Rachada: Known for its unique rock formations and natural beauty, this is a great place to explore and take photos.

3.2 Natural Attractions

  1. Dunes: Paracuru’s dunes are a perfect setting for buggy and sandboard rides, offering spectacular panoramic views.
  2. Lagoons: The region’s lagoons, such as Lagoa do Curu, are great places 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 venues offering lessons and equipment hire.
  2. Buggy rides: Exploring the dunes and beaches by buggy is an exciting activity that lets you get to know the natural beauty of the region.
  3. Artisanal Fishing: Accompanying local fishermen, tourists can learn about traditional fishing techniques and even take part.
  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. Matriz de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Church: One of the oldest and most important buildings in the city, located in the historic centre.

Paracuru is a destination that offers something for all types of holidaymakers, from those seeking 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.

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 town is mainly known for its famous Lagoinha beach, but it offers much more for visitors. Here are Paraipaba’s main tourist attractions:

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 view from the beach is breathtaking, and it’s an ideal place for relaxing, swimming and practising water sports.

4.2. Natural Attractions

  1. Dunas de Lagoinha: The dunes are one of Lagoinha’s main attractions. The dune buggy rides are thrilling and offer incredible panoramic views. Another popular activity is “skibunda”, which consists of sliding down the dunes on wooden planks.
  2. Lagoa das Almécegas: Located next to Lagoinha beach, this lagoon is perfect for relaxing swims and raft trips. The lagoon is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a peaceful environment for visitors.
  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 leisure.

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. Hikes 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. Historic Centre of Paraipaba: The town 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 historical 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.

5. Trairi

Trairi, located on the west coast of Ceará, is a charming town known for its stunning beaches, natural beauty and tranquillity. It’s an ideal destination for those looking 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 raft trips. The fishing village offers a cosy atmosphere with inns, restaurants and bars.
  2. Guajiru Beach: This beach is ideal for those seeking tranquillity. With its white sands and coconut trees, Guajiru is perfect for walking, swimming and relaxing. It is also popular with kitesurfers due to the favourable winds.
  3. Mundaú Beach: Known for its natural beauty and the meeting of the river and the sea, Mundaú is ideal for boat trips, which offer panoramic views of the dunes and mangroves. The calm waters and dunes make this beach an excellent destination for the whole family.
  4. Emboaca Beach: A more secluded and wild beach, perfect for those looking for a quiet refuge in direct contact with nature.

5.2 Natural Attractions

  1. Dunes: Trairi’s dunes are perfect for buggy rides, sandboarding and hiking. They offer breathtaking views and are an excellent place to enjoy the sunset.
  2. Mangroves: The mangroves of Mundaú are rich in biodiversity and can be explored on boat trips, where it is possible to 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, 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 know less accessible areas.
  3. Boat Trips: Boat trips on the Mundaú River are a relaxing way to explore the region, offering incredible views of the dunes, mangroves and the meeting of the river and the sea.
  4. Artisanal Fishing: Accompanying local fishermen, holidaymakers can learn about traditional fishing techniques and even take part.

5.4 Culture and History

  1. Fishermen’s Village: The fishermen’s villages in Flecheiras and Mundaú provide 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: Trairi is known for its handicrafts, including lace, ceramics and straw items, which make excellent souvenirs and gifts.

Trairi is an ideal destination for those looking for 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.

6. Itapipoca

Itapipoca, located in the interior of Ceará, is a city known for its natural beauty, diversity of ecosystems and rich local culture. Although not as famous as other cities in Ceará, Itapipoca offers a variety of tourist attractions for visitors. 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, viewpoints with panoramic views, 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 vegetation, 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 the 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 historical 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. Walks and Trails: The natural areas around Itapipoca are ideal for walks and trails, offering direct contact with the local flora and fauna.
  2. Adventure Sports: The Serra de Uruburetama is a popular location for adventure sports, such as abseiling and climbing, due to its rock formations and challenging landscapes.

6.4 Visitor Tips

  • 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 town is well connected by road and can be reached from Fortaleza in around 2 hours by car.

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

7. Amontada

Amontada, located on the west coast of Ceará, is a town that combines beautiful beaches, exuberant 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. Icaraí de Amontada Beach (Icaraizinho): The main beach in the region, known for its calm waters, coconut trees and tranquil atmosphere. It is a popular destination for kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddling due to the constant and favourable winds.
  2. Moitas Beach: A charming and less busy beach, perfect for those looking for 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 groves, 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 buggy rides, sandboarding and hiking. The lagoons, such as Lagoa das Flexeiras, are great 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 the 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 venues offering lessons and equipment hire.
  2. Buggy rides: Exploring the dunes and beaches by buggy is an exciting activity that lets you 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 traditional fishing techniques and even take part.

7.4 Culture and History

  1. Fishermen’s Villages: The fishermen’s villages in Icaraí de Amontada and Moitas provide 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 items made from straw, 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.

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 many options for leisure 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. Beaches

  1. Almofala Beach: One of the best known 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 walk along the seafront.
  2. Praia de Patos: A more secluded and rustic beach, ideal for those looking for a peaceful environment and contact with nature. The waters are calm and the landscape is enchanting.
  3. Torrões Beach: 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 known for its clear, calm waters. It is an ideal place for water sports such as stand-up paddle and kayaking, as well as being perfect for a family day out.
  2. Dunas de Itarema: The region’s dunes 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 in the Almofala region, is known for its excellent conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to the constant and favourable winds. Several local operators offer lessons and equipment hire.

8.4 Culture and History

  1. Church of Almofala: 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 site of great historical and religious significance.
  2. Tremembé Indigenous Community: Itarema is home to the Tremembé indigenous community, who keep their traditions and culture alive. Visits to the community can provide 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 town is well connected by road and can be reached from Fortaleza in around 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 who want to explore the west coast of Ceará and enjoy an authentic and peaceful experience.

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 that 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 Acaraú’s best-known beaches, Arpoeiras is ideal for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature. Its calm waters and coconut trees are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
  2. Barrinha Beach: A more isolated 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. Córrego das Varas Beach: 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 town 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: The 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. Municipal Market: A vibrant place where visitors can sample the local cuisine, buy handicrafts and observe the daily life of the locals.
  3. Museu de Acaraú: The local museum offers an insight into the town’s history and culture, with exhibitions of artefacts, photographs and historical documents.

9.4 Activities and Leisure

  1. Artisanal Fishing: Accompanying local fishermen, tourists can learn about 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, providing a new perspective on the region.
  3. Hikes and Trails: The natural areas around Acaraú are perfect for hiking and trails, offering direct contact with nature.

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

Mapa da Costa Dos Ventos no Ceará
Map of the Costa do Sol Poente – West Coast of Ceará
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