Maracajaú in Brazil: The Idyllic Beach with Stunning Coral Reefs

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Maracajaú é uma vila localizada no município de Maxaranguape, no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil. Conhecida como o “Caribe Brasileiro”, Maracajaú atrai turistas pelas suas águas cristalinas, rica vida marinha e beleza natural.

Transparent waters and coral reef are the attractions of Maracajaú beach (praia de Maracajaú) which is 55 km north of Natal.

One of the most impressive things about the beach is the colour of the sea water.

praia de Maracajaú
praia de Maracajaú RN

Maracajaú is the last beach in the municipality of Maxaranguape. The name of indigenous origin comes from the Tupi-Guarani and means: place where the maracajá cat drinks water.

map of the coast of Rio Grande do Norte
Map of the coast of RN

Surrounded by dunes, coconut groves and lagoons, Maracajaú is a small fishing village with approximately 2,000 inhabitants. Today, the town’s main economic activity is tourism.

The great attraction of this beach is the coral bank with crystal clear waters and rich in coral fish, a suitable place for recreational diving (snorkelling).

Maracajaú Beach, also known as the Brazilian Caribbean, is famous for the coral reef known locally as the parrachos, 7 km from the coast.

The parrachos during low tide become a huge natural pool of crystal clear water, with depth ranging from 1.0 to 3.0 m and with a beautiful and rich marine fauna and flora.

Videos – Parrachos and Maracajaú Beach in RN

Maracajaú RN

Maracajaú Beach is considered one of the 10 best places in Brazil for snorkelling and due to its natural conditions it is excellent for scuba diving baptism, where you can have your first experience of scuba diving.

1. Main Attractions

1.1 Parrachos de Maracajaú

  • The parrachos are coral reefs located about 7 kilometres from the coast. They are ideal for diving and snorkelling, providing the opportunity to observe a great diversity of fish and other marine life.
  • Boat and catamaran trips are organised to take visitors to the parrachos, where it is possible to hire diving equipment.

1.2 Maracajaú Beach

  • The beach is famous for its natural beauty, with white sand and clear waters. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.
  • The beach also offers water sports options such as kitesurfing and windsurfing.

1.3 Diving

  • In addition to the parrachos, there are diving options in deeper areas for the more experienced, with the possibility of seeing shipwrecks and other underwater formations.

1.4 Quad rides

  • Exploring the dunes and the landscape around the village, these tours are an exciting way to get to know the region.

1.5 Ma-Noa Water Park

  • A water park close to the beach that offers fun for the whole family, with swimming pools, water slides and other water attractions.

2. Tourist infrastructure

  • Accommodation: Maracajaú offers a variety of accommodation options, from simple inns to more luxurious resorts.
  • Restaurants: The local gastronomy is based on fresh seafood, but there are also restaurants serving national and international cuisine.
  • Tourist Agencies: Several agencies offer packages that include trips to the parrachos, diving, buggy rides and more.

3. Tips for visitors

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Maracajaú is during the dry season, from September to March, when sea conditions are more favourable for water activities.
  • Sun Protection: It is important to wear sun cream, hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong tropical sun.
  • Environmental Conservation: Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment, especially the coral reefs, by avoiding the use of harmful sunscreens and not touching the corals.

Maracajaú is an unmissable destination for those seeking contact with nature, beautiful landscapes and exciting water activities.

Rio Grande do Norte Travel Guide

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