This post is also on: Português English

The beauty of the beaches on the Paraíba coast combined with the tranquillity and safety of the towns make Paraíba the ideal itinerary for your trip.

The beaches on the coast of Paraíba are the region’s main attractions.

With a temperature of around 28º C all year round, the Paraíba is an invitation to tourism.

It boasts the first rays of sunshine in the Americas (Ponta do Seixas), the first naturist beach in the northeast (Tambaba) and even a soundtrack.

João Pessoa on the coast of Paraíba, due to its privileged location (it’s in the centre of the Paraíba coast) is the starting point for getting to know the beautiful coast of Paraíba. Founded in 1585, it manages to combine history and nature.

João Pessoa is well known for having one of the largest urban green areas, as well as for its strict municipal legislation limiting buildings on the seafront to a maximum of 3 storeys.

Beaches on the coast of Paraíba

1. Urban beaches of João Pessoa PB
2. North coast of Paraíba
3. South coast of Paraíba

Contrast between the South and North Coasts of Paraíba

Paraíba’s coastline is divided into the North Coast and the South Coast, each with distinct characteristics and unique attractions.

Here are the main differences between them:

• Tourist Development: The South Coast is more developed and popular with tourists, while the North Coast is more unspoilt and peaceful.
• Culture and Communities: The North Coast has a strong indigenous influence, while the South Coast is more influenced by its proximity to João Pessoa and urban culture.
• Activities: The South Coast offers more tourist and sports activities, while the North Coast is ideal for ecotourism and authentic cultural experiences.

In short, the North Coast of Paraíba is ideal for those looking for a more peaceful, unspoilt and culturally rich environment, while the South Coast offers more infrastructure, tourist activities and popular beaches.

See also Best beaches in João Pessoa, south and north coast of Paraíba

1. Urban beaches of João Pessoa PB

There are 30 kilometres of a privileged combination of infrastructure and bustling urban beaches.

João Pessoa, the capital of Paraíba, is known for its stunning and accessible urban beaches.

1. Tambaú Beach

• Location: Centre of João Pessoa
• Highlights: Famous for its vibrant atmosphere, night-time craft markets, various bars and restaurants. It offers boat trips to the natural pools of Picãozinho.

2. Praia do Cabo Branco

• Location: Next to Tambaú
• Highlights: Known for the Cabo Branco Lighthouse and its cliffs. It has a long promenade ideal for walking and cycling, as well as bars and kiosks.

3. Manaíra Beach

• Location: Between Tambaú and Bessa
• Highlights: Less popular for swimming due to the rocks, but offers beautiful views and a variety of restaurants. Close to Manaíra Shopping.

4. Bessa Beach

• Location: North of João Pessoa
• Highlights: Calm, warm waters, perfect for families. Popular for stand-up paddle and with several kiosks and restaurants.

5. Praia do Seixas

• Location: Far south-east of João Pessoa
• Highlights: The most easterly point in the Americas, ideal for watching the sunrise. It has clear waters and coral reefs, great for snorkelling.

6. Praia da Penha

• Location: South of João Pessoa
• Highlights: A more secluded beach with beautiful scenery and the historic Penha Church. Perfect for a quiet day out.

7. Intermares Beach

• Location: In Cabedelo, near João Pessoa
• Highlights: Known for its good surfing conditions, attracting surfers from all over Brazil. Relaxed atmosphere with kiosks and bars.

8. Praia do Jacaré

• Location: Also in Cabedelo
• Highlights: Famous for its sunsets to the sound of Ravel’s “Bolero”. Numerous bars and restaurants by the river.

9. Camboinha Beach

• Location: In Cabedelo, near João Pessoa
• Highlights: Calm, clear waters, ideal for families and water sports. Trips to Areia Vermelha Island at low tide.

10. Praia do Poço

• Location: In Cabedelo, close to João Pessoa
• Highlights: Less busy, ideal for those seeking tranquillity. Good seafood restaurants.

11. Cabo Branco Lighthouse

The lighthouse is not directly on a specific beach, but in a coastal area close to Praia do Cabo Branco.

The Cabo Branco Lighthouse is a very famous tourist attraction located in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. Here’s some information about it:

1. Location: The Cabo Branco Lighthouse is situated on the easternmost point of the Americas, marking the point where the sun rises first in the Americas.
2. History: It was inaugurated in 1972 and has a modern, minimalist architecture, designed by Pedro Abraão Dieb.
3. Attractions: As well as visiting the lighthouse itself, which offers an incredible panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the coast of Paraíba, the site also has an area for contemplation and a beautiful natural landscape all around.
4. Visitation: It is possible to visit the lighthouse daily, with specific opening hours that may vary throughout the year. Entry is usually free of charge.
5. Cultural Importance: As well as being an important geographical landmark, the Cabo Branco Lighthouse has also become a cultural and tourist symbol of the city of João Pessoa and a popular place to visit and watch the sun rise and set.

For those who enjoy history, architecture and beautiful natural views, a visit to the Cabo Branco Lighthouse is highly recommended when visiting João Pessoa and exploring the region’s beauties.

See the map of Paraíba’s beaches

Beaches and tourist attractions in each municipality of the North Coast of PB

The North Coast of Paraíba has several beaches distributed among its municipalities:

1. Cabedelo
2. Lucena
3. Rio Tinto
4. Baía da Traição

1. Cabedelo

Cabedelo is a municipality located in the metropolitan region of João Pessoa, capital of the state of Paraíba, Brazil. With a rich history and beautiful beaches, Cabedelo is a popular tourist destination in the region. Here is some information about Cabedelo:

1. History and Culture

• Foundation: Cabedelo was founded on 4 November 1959, and its history is linked to the defence of the Brazilian coast against foreign invasions.
• Fortaleza de Santa Catarina: One of the main historical tourist attractions, built in the 16th century to protect the region from pirate attacks and invaders.

2. Beaches

• Intermares Beach: Popular with surfers due to its good waves. It is also a place to watch sea turtles nesting.
• Camboinha Beach: Known for its calm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for families. It has infrastructure with bars and restaurants.
• Praia do Poço: Quiet and less busy, great for those looking to relax.
• Praia Formosa: Clear waters and fine sand, perfect for walking and swimming.

3. Tourist attractions

• Praia do Jacaré: Famous for its sunsets to the sound of Ravel’s Bolero, played by saxophonist Jurandy do Sax. The beach offers bars, restaurants and boat trips.
• Ilha de Areia Vermelha: A sandbank that emerges at low tide, forming natural pools. It can be reached by boat and is a great option for diving and snorkelling.
• Red Sand Marine State Park: An environmental preservation area that protects the local marine fauna and flora.

4. Infrastructure

• Porto de Cabedelo: Important commercial port in the region, fundamental to the local economy.
• Transport: Cabedelo is easily accessible from João Pessoa, with various public transport and road options.

2. Lucena

Lucena is a municipality located in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, known for its beautiful beaches, tranquillity and rich history. Here are some details about Lucena:

1. History and Culture

• Foundation: Lucena has historical roots that go back to the Brazilian colonial period, being an area inhabited by indigenous people before the arrival of the Portuguese.
• Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Guia: One of the most important historical sites, this 16th century church is an example of colonial architecture and a place of religious pilgrimage.

2. Beaches

• Praia de Lucena: The municipality’s main beach, known for its calm, warm waters, ideal for families and sunbathers.
• Bonsucesso Beach: Located next to the ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Bonsucesso, it offers a more rustic and peaceful atmosphere.
• Gameleira Beach: Less busy, with a preserved natural environment and quite quiet.
• Praia do Holandês: Known for its cliffs and clear waters, perfect for those looking for a more secluded spot.

3. Tourist Attractions

• Ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Bonsucesso: A historic site that offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial past.
• Natural Pools: At low tide, natural pools form on several beaches, providing great opportunities for snorkelling and observing marine life.
• Lucena Ecological Park: A preserved area with trails and opportunities for observing the local flora and fauna.

4. Accessibility

• Location: Lucena is located around 40 kilometres north of João Pessoa, the capital of Paraíba, and can be reached by road.
• Transport: The town is accessible by road and there are public transport options from João Pessoa.

3. Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a municipality located in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, known for its historical and cultural importance and its beautiful beaches.

1. History and Culture

• Foundation: Rio Tinto was founded in 1959 and has a rich history dating back to the colonial period, with great influence from the Potiguara indigenous communities.
• Textile Industry: The town has a history linked to the textile industry, with the Rio Tinto Factory being an important economic landmark in the region.

2. Indigenous communities

• Potiguara: Rio Tinto is one of the areas inhabited by the Potiguara indigenous people. The indigenous culture is very present and can be observed in various cultural manifestations and local traditions.

3. Beaches

• Praia de Campina: Known for its clear and calm waters, it is a perfect place to relax and swim.
• Oiteiro Beach: It stands out for its beautiful cliffs and natural landscapes, and is great for hiking and nature watching.
• Porto de Mamanguape Beach: Located near the mouth of the Mamanguape River, it offers a peaceful and natural setting.

4. Tourist Attractions

• Guaribas Biological Reserve: An environmental preservation area that protects the local fauna and flora, it is a great place for ecotourism and animal watching.
• Engenho São João: An old sugar mill that offers a glimpse into the economic and cultural history of the region.
• Historic Churches: Rio Tinto has several historic churches that reflect the cultural and religious heritage of the region.

5. Accessibility

• Location: Rio Tinto is located around 60 kilometres north of João Pessoa and can be reached by road.
• Transport: There are public and private transport options to get to Rio Tinto from João Pessoa and other nearby towns.

4. Baía da Traição

Baía da Traição is a municipality located in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich indigenous culture and stunning natural landscapes.

1. History and Culture

• Founding: Baía da Traição has a long history, with the significant presence of the Potiguara indigenous people.
• Name: The town’s name originates from a historical episode involving the Portuguese betraying the local indigenous people during the colonial period.

2. Indigenous communities

• Potiguara: The city is one of the most important areas for the Potiguara indigenous people. Their traditions, culture and history are deeply rooted in the region.
• Indigenous Villages: Several Potiguara villages are located in the region, offering a rich cultural experience for visitors.

3. Beaches

• Praia de Baía da Traição: The town’s main beach, known for its clear, calm waters and long stretch of sand.
• Praia do Forte: Located next to the ruins of an old fort, it is a quiet and less busy beach.
• Praia de Coqueirinho do Norte: Less well known and more isolated, it offers a wilder and more natural beach experience.
• Barra de Mamanguape Beach: Close to the mouth of the Mamanguape River, it offers beautiful scenery and is an excellent place to observe marine life.

4. Tourist Attractions

• Ruínas do Forte: An ancient fort built to protect the region from invaders, it offers a historical view of the area.
• Potiguara Indigenous Reserve: A protected area that allows visitors to learn more about the culture and traditions of the Potiguara indigenous people.
• Ecological Trails: Several trails allow visitors to explore the rich biodiversity of the region.

5. Accessibility

• Location: Baía da Traição is located approximately 90 kilometres north of João Pessoa, the capital of Paraíba.
• Transport: Access is possible by road and there are public and private transport options from João Pessoa and other nearby towns.

5. Mataraca

Mataraca is a municipality located in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Known for its beautiful natural landscapes, quiet beaches and environmental preservation areas, Mataraca offers a unique combination of nature and culture. Here are some details about Mataraca:

1. History and Culture

• Foundation: Mataraca was founded in 1961 and has a history linked to the colonisation and agricultural development of the region.
• Local Culture: The town preserves cultural traditions and festivals typical of the Brazilian Northeast, such as the June festivals.

2. Beaches

• Barra de Camaratuba Beach: One of Mataraca’s best-known beaches, famous for its natural pools, beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters. It is ideal for diving and snorkelling.
• Sagi Beach: Located close to the border with Rio Grande do Norte, it is known for its natural beauty and tranquillity, perfect for those looking for a more secluded atmosphere.
• Bela Vista Beach: Less well known and frequented, it offers a wilder and more secluded beach experience.

3. Tourist Attractions

• Guaribas Biological Reserve: An environmental preservation area that protects the local fauna and flora. It is a great place for ecotourism, hiking and wildlife watching.
• Camaratuba River: The river offers activities such as boat trips and kayaking, as well as being a popular spot for fishing.

4. Accessibility

• Location: Mataraca is located about 90 kilometres north of João Pessoa, the capital of Paraíba.
• Transport: Access is mainly by road. There are public and private transport options from João Pessoa and other nearby towns.

6. Marcação

Marcação is a municipality located in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Known for its beautiful beaches, indigenous culture and natural landscapes, Marcação offers an authentic and peaceful experience for visitors. Here are some details about Marcação:

1. History and Culture

• Foundation: Marcação was emancipated in 1961, with a rich history linked to indigenous communities and rural development.
• Indigenous Potiguara: Marcação is an area with a significant presence of indigenous Potiguara, who have a strong influence on local culture and traditions.

2. Indigenous communities

• Potiguara Villages: Several Potiguara villages are present in the region, where visitors can learn about indigenous culture, traditions and handicrafts.

3. Beaches

• Praia de Marcação: An unspoilt beach with clear, calm waters, ideal for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature.
• Tramataia Beach: Less well known, it offers a wilder and more secluded beach experience, perfect for those who want a peaceful retreat.
• Praia de Coqueirinho: Not to be confused with Praia de Coqueirinho on the south coast, it is a less busy place with beautiful natural landscapes.

4. Tourist Attractions

• Potiguara Indigenous Reserve: An area of environmental and cultural preservation where visitors can learn about the life and traditions of the Potiguara.
• Archaeological Sites: The region has several archaeological sites that show the history and culture of the indigenous peoples.
• Ecological Trails: Various trails allow you to explore the region’s rich biodiversity, with opportunities to observe the local flora and fauna.

5. Accessibility

• Location: Marcação is located approximately 80 kilometres north of João Pessoa, the capital of Paraíba.
• Transport: Access is mainly by road, and there are public and private transport options from João Pessoa and other nearby towns.

Beaches and tourist attractions in each municipality of the South Coast of PB

The South Coast of Paraíba is made up of several municipalities that offer a unique combination of beautiful beaches, unspoilt nature and tourist infrastructure.

1. João Pessoa
2. Conde
3. Pitimbu

1. João Pessoa

• Despite being the capital of Paraíba, João Pessoa is considered part of the state’s South Coast.
• It is home to famous beaches such as Tambaú, Cabo Branco and Manaíra.
• It has a rich cultural life, with cultural events, festivals, theatres and museums.

2. Conde

Conde is a municipality located in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, known for its beautiful beaches and unspoilt nature. Here is some information about Conde:

1. Beaches

Conde is famous for its paradisiacal beaches along the south coast of Paraíba:

• Tambaba Beach: Known internationally for being one of the first naturist beaches in Brazil. It is divided into naturist and non-naturist areas, with beautiful cliffs and natural pools.
• Coqueirinho Beach: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, with colourful cliffs, coconut trees and crystal-clear waters. It is ideal for those looking for stunning natural scenery and tranquillity.

• Tabatinga Beach: With calm waters and natural pools formed by the reefs, it is an excellent option for families and those who want to relax in a preserved natural environment.
• Praia do Amor: Known for its scenic beauty and tranquillity, it is a romantic spot and popular with couples and visitors in search of peace and quiet.
• Jacumã Beach: Jacumã is famous for its calm, clear waters, ideal for swimming and for families with children. The beach is surrounded by coconut trees and vegetation typical of the northeastern region. One of Jacumã’s main attractions are the natural pools formed by the reefs at low tide. These pools are ideal for snorkelling and spotting colourful fish.

2. Attractions and Nature

In addition to the beaches, Conde offers other natural and cultural attractions:

• Mirante de Coqueirinho: Offers a spectacular panoramic view of Coqueirinho Beach and the surrounding cliffs.
• Guaribas Biological Reserve: An environmental conservation area that is home to species of fauna and flora typical of the Atlantic Rainforest. It is possible to go on guided nature trails to observe nature.

3. Infrastructure and Access

• Accommodation: There are several options of inns, hotels and resorts along the coast, catering for both luxury-seeking tourists and those who prefer more economical options.
• Accommodation: There are several options of inns, hotels and resorts along the coast, catering for both luxury-seeking tourists and those who prefer more economical options.
• Access: Conde is located approximately 25 kilometres south of João Pessoa, the capital of Paraíba. Access is easy via well-maintained highways, with public and private transport options available.

Conde is an ideal destination for those seeking paradisiacal beaches, unspoilt nature, local culture and regional gastronomy. It’s a place where you can relax, venture out on trails and enjoy unique moments by the sea.

3. Pitimbu

Pitimbu is a municipality located at the southern end of the coast of Paraíba, Brazil. Known for its quiet beaches, unspoilt nature and welcoming atmosphere, Pitimbu offers a unique experience for visitors looking for relaxation and contact with nature;

1. Main Beaches and Attractions

• Pitimbu Beach: The town centre itself has a quiet beach frequented mainly by locals. It is ideal for those seeking a more serene and less crowded environment.
• Acaú Beach: Located in Pitimbu, it is an extensive beach with clear sands and calm waters. It’s a great place for swimming and enjoying the sun.
• Praia de Ponta de Coqueiros: Known for its cliffs and coconut trees, it offers an enchanting panoramic view of the Paraiba coastline.
• Praia Bela: Although not exactly in Pitimbu, but close to the municipality, Praia Bela is famous for its warm and calm waters, as well as its good tourist infrastructure.

2. Natural Attractions and Activities

• Mirante de Tabatinga: It offers a breathtaking view of the beaches and the coastal landscape of the region.
• Lagoa do Mato: A freshwater lagoon surrounded by the Atlantic Rainforest, ideal for a refreshing dip and for those who like to contemplate nature.
• Mangroves and Estuaries: The region is home to several mangroves and estuaries, which are important ecosystems for marine life and for those interested in ecology.

3. Infrastructure and Access

• Accommodation: There are accommodation options ranging from simple inns to holiday homes and small resorts, providing comfort for visitors.
• Access: Pitimbu is located approximately 60 kilometres south of João Pessoa, the capital of Paraíba. Access is mainly via the PB-008 motorway, which connects the municipality to the capital and other nearby towns.

See also Best beaches in João Pessoa, south and north coast of Paraíba

Paraíba Coast Travel and Tourism Guide