A Guide to Tibau do Sul: The Home of Praia de Pipa

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Tibau do Sul, located in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, is a charming tourist destination that offers a mix of stunning natural landscapes, paradisiacal beaches and a welcoming atmosphere. In addition to the famous Pipa Beach, Tibau do Sul has several other attractions that appeal to visitors from all over the world.

Those visiting Natal can go there and back in the same day, either by bus or car.

Tibau do Sul RN
Tibau do Sul RN

Tibau do Sul may not be a well-known name to tourists from all over Brazil.

However, it is precisely in this municipality of Tibau do Sul that the famous and trendy Praia de Pipa is located.

Although Pipa is the most popular beach for holidaymakers, you should know that Tibau do Sul has other seductive attractions, with scenery characterised by cliffs, dunes and the striking Guaraíras Lagoon.

Among the place’s good options are Praia do Madeiro, which can be reached after descending a staircase amidst the cliffs, and Praia de Cacimbinhas, where the strong winds and rough seas attract surfers and kitesurfers.

A good way to explore the region to the full is by taking the pau-de-arara ride, which leaves from Praia de Pipa, heads south and returns north, ending at sunset in front of the Guaraíras Lagoon.

The evening can also be enjoyed on a boat trip around the lagoon.

And if you want to immerse yourself even more in the local culture, don’t miss out on sampling the regional cuisine, characterised by fresh fish, and checking out the handicrafts made by the locals.

Praia de Pipa
Praia de Pipa RN

Tibau do Sul is a fishing village, less bustling than its neighbour Praia de Pipa and has more secluded beaches, formed by cliffs (murals of rocks, like a ravine), with clear waters, open and calm seas.

Beauty and tranquillity amidst the breathtaking Tibau do Sul cliffs.

Videos – What to do in Tibau do Sul and Pipa?

Main attractions in Tibau do Sul

1 Guaraíras Lagoon

One of the most impressive spots in Tibau do Sul, known for its calm waters and spectacular sunset views. Boat trips are a popular activity for exploring the lagoon and observing the wildlife.

2. Pipa village

The village of Pipa, or simply Pipa, belongs to the town of Tibau do Sul in Rio Grande do Norte, about 80 kilometres from Natal.

Until the 1980s, Pipa beach was a quiet fishing village, but surfers discovered the waves of Pipa and the region and put it on the route of national and international tourism.

map of Tibau do Sul RN
map of Tibau do Sul RN

Pipa has a lively nightlife for all tastes and styles, with resorts, hotels, pousadas, hostels and restaurants.

In the centre of Pipa, on Av. Baía dos Golfinhos and its surroundings, you’ll find all kinds of shops, while on the outskirts of the town you’ll find the beautiful beaches privileged by the charm of their gigantic cliffs, transparent waters and white sand.

All the beaches listed below can be reached by walking along the seafront, with the exception of Praia do Giz and Praia de Tibau do Sul, which can be reached by taking one of the many vans that circulate daily.

3. Tibau do Sul beaches

map of the beaches of Tibau do Sul RN
Map of the beaches of Tibau do Sul RN

Here are the main beaches, with and without waves, rough and quiet, some practically deserted.

Pipa’s beaches can be visited in just one day or more leisurely, which was my case, over 3 days.

3.1 Pipa Beach (Main Beach)

Pipa beach has a good structure of huts. Depending on the tide, a series of shallow natural pools with warm, clean water form.

It’s the closest beach to the commercial area of the village and the easiest to get to, so it’s the most crowded.

From there you can walk to Praia do Amor on one side and Praia dos Golfinhos on the other.

praia de Pipa RN
praia de Pipa RN
Praia de Pipa RN
Praia de Pipa RN

3.2 Dolphin Beach

The name itself defines the place! It’s a great feeling to be by the beach and see the dolphins in the sea! Anyone who goes to Pipa can’t miss it. As the waters at this beach are very calm, it’s common to see kayakers and stand up paddle boarders.

Praia dos Golfinhos in Tibau do Sul RN
Praia dos Golfinhos in Tibau do Sul RN

3.3 Madeiro Beach

The scenery at Madeiro beach is breathtaking. The beach can be reached by walking along Praia dos Golfinhos at low tide or by taking the Pipa/Tibau do Sul road, where there is a wooden staircase to the beach. In the middle of the walk towards the staircase, it’s a good idea to stop at the viewpoint and take some beautiful photos.

Madeiro beach in Tibau do Sul
Madeiro beach in Tibau do Sul

3.4 Chalk Beach

With several rocks along its shore and a few coconut trees that give it charm, this beach is very popular with surfers and kite surfers. The beach can be accessed from the Pipa/Tibau road at Ponta do Pirambu or from the Tibau do Sul seafront.

Praia do Giz in Tibau do Sul
Praia do Giz in Tibau do Sul

3.5 Tibau do Sul Beach (Praia do Centro)

This beach near the centre of Tibau do Sul is very well structured and has kiosks and restaurants. The tip is to plan to watch the sunset right next to the beach, at Lagoa dos Guaraíras, where some of the local boats are located.

Praia de Tibau do Sul (Praia do Centro)
Praia de Tibau do Sul (Praia do Centro)

3.6 Love Beach

Close to the centre of Pipa, this beach is very popular with surfers because of its waves. There are few bars and restaurants. The beach gets its name from a natural pool in the shape of a heart. Another curiosity is that it was once a naturist beach. From there the tip is to head south to Praia das Minas.

Praia do Amor in Tibau do Sul RN
Praia do Amor in Tibau do Sul RN

3.7 Praia das Minas

A beautiful, deserted beach where you can relax and get away from the hustle and bustle. The sea is rough and swimming is not recommended. For those who like to walk along the beach in peace and quiet, this is the place. Access is via Praia do Amor or a huge staircase through Chapadão da Pipa.

Praia das Minas in Tibau do Sul RN
Praia das Minas in Tibau do Sul RN

Go along the seafront and climb the staircase, it’s quite a sight! From the chapadão you can go to Baía dos Golfinhos Avenue, about a 15-minute walk to the commercial area of Pipa.

4. Activities and Adventures

  • Buggy rides: Explore the dunes and beaches of Tibau do Sul on a thrilling buggy ride. The rides can be “with emotion” or “without emotion”, depending on the visitor’s preference.
  • Ecological Walks: The Pipa Ecological Sanctuary offers trails that pass through preserved areas of Atlantic forest and lead to viewpoints with breathtaking views of the ocean.
  • Water Sports: Tibau do Sul is an ideal destination for surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, stand-up paddle and kayaking, with several schools and equipment hire places available.
  • Marine Life Observation: Dolphins and sea turtles are often seen in the waters around Tibau do Sul, with boat trips available for observation.

5. Nightlife and Gastronomy

  • Bars and Restaurants: The region offers a wide variety of dining options, from fresh seafood to international cuisine. The nightlife is vibrant, especially in Pipa, with many bars and parties.
  • Craft markets: Explore the local markets to buy handicrafts, souvenirs and typical products from the region.

6. Accommodation

  • Tibau do Sul has a wide range of accommodation options, from cosy inns to luxury resorts. Many establishments offer breathtaking views of the sea or lagoon.

7. Tips for visitors

  • Best Time to Visit: From September to February, during the dry season, is the best time to enjoy Tibau do Sul. However, it is a pleasant destination all year round.
  • Transport: Renting a car or buggy can be a good option for exploring the region. There are also transfer services available from Natal.

8. Summary

Tibau do Sul is a charming tourist destination, offering a perfect mix of beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, rich marine life and a cosy atmosphere. With a variety of natural and cultural attractions, it is an ideal place to relax, venture out and explore the beauty of Brazil’s northeastern coastline.

Tourism and Travel Guide to Tibau do Sul and Pipa in Rio Grande do Norte

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