beach · Itarema, CE
Ilha do Guajiru (Praia da Barra)
At high tide, a shallow lagoon forms here that is considered one of the world's good kitesurfing spots, for both beginners and experienced riders. It has sunsets over the sea.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Ilha do Guajiru (Praia da Barra)
Ilha do Guajiru, also called Praia da Barra, is on the coast of Itarema, in Ceará. It is the busiest beach in the municipality and one of the best-known kitesurfing destinations in the state, with pousadas and beach stalls catering to riders.
A few meters off the coast, a long sandbar holds back the sea. When the tide rises, a large lagoon of shallow, waveless water forms between it and the beach, about a meter deep. Kitesurfers consider this lagoon one of the best places in the world for the sport, both for beginners and for professional riders. At low tide, there is not enough water to ride.
The strong, steady wind is what brings the riders. Besides kitesurfing, the beach is popular for windsurfing. If you don't practice sports, you can stroll on the sand, watch the colorful kites over the lagoon and wait for the sunset, one of the highlights of the place.
The lagoon's water is calm, warm and waveless. Since the space is shared with kites and boards, keep an eye on the people riding.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half a day is enough to walk on the beach, watch the kitesurfers on the lagoon and stay for the sunset; people who come to ride usually spend several days.
Best time
From August to November, when the wind is strongest and steadiest, at high tide, when the lagoon forms; in the late afternoon, for the sunset. From March to May the wind is light and it rains more.
How to get there
It is at Praia da Barra, on the coast of Itarema, on Ceará's West Coast. From Fortaleza there are buses to downtown Itarema, a trip of about four hours; from there, continue by car, taxi or transfer to the beach. Jericoacoara Airport is another gateway to the region.
Tip
Check the tide table before you go: the lagoon only forms at high tide, and at low tide there is not enough water to ride.
A look at the place
Ilha do Guajiru (Praia da Barra) in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ilha do Guajiru (Praia da Barra)
Are Ilha do Guajiru and Praia da Barra the same place?
Yes. The Itarema city government uses both names for the same beach, on the municipality's coast. Don't confuse it with beaches named Guajiru in other Ceará towns.
When is the best time for kitesurfing at Ilha do Guajiru?
From August to November, when the wind is strongest and steadiest. From March to May the wind is usually light.
Can I learn to kitesurf there?
Yes. The shallow, waveless lagoon is popular with both beginners and professional riders.
Is the lagoon there all the time?
No. It forms at high tide; at low tide the water is too shallow to ride. Check the tide table.
How do I get to Ilha do Guajiru from Fortaleza?
There are buses from Fortaleza to downtown Itarema, a trip of about four hours, and from there you continue by car, taxi or transfer to the beach. You can also drive or fly into Jericoacoara Airport.