natural pool · João Pessoa, PB
Piscinas Naturais de Picãozinho
The reefs, about 15 minutes by boat from the Tambaú waterfront, form clear-water pools with colorful fish. They are only accessible at low tide, especially in the weeks of the new and full moon.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Piscinas Naturais de Picãozinho
Picãozinho is a group of reefs off Tambaú beach, a few minutes by boat from the João Pessoa waterfront. At low tide, the reefs are exposed and hold the water between them, forming shallow, warm and clear pools.
The tour runs on catamarans, speedboats and smaller boats that leave right from Tambaú beach. The crossing takes about 15 minutes. The boats anchor near the reefs and you get into the water to swim, float or snorkel among schools of colorful fish.
Everything depends on the tide. The pools only appear at low tide, and the best tides come in the weeks of the new moon and full moon. That is why departure times change every day, and operators schedule the tour by the tide table.
Even at low tide the water usually reaches an adult's waist, and the bottom has stretches of uneven coral. If you are not a strong swimmer, you can wear a life jacket, provided on the boats. Keep a very close eye on small children. Do not step on the coral or feed the fish.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
The full tour usually takes about half a day, with most of the time spent at the pools.
Best time
In the weeks of the new moon and full moon, when low tides are strongest; between November and March the water is usually clearer and the weather more settled. The time of day depends on the tide.
How to get there
Boats leave from Tambaú beach, on the João Pessoa waterfront. Many operators sell the tour with hotel pickup; if you are staying on the waterfront, you can walk to the boarding point.
Tip
Check the tide table before booking and choose days with a very low tide. Bring sunscreen, water and, if you have them, water shoes; snorkel gear can be rented on board.
A look at the place
Piscinas Naturais de Picãozinho 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 Piscinas Naturais de Picãozinho
How long is the boat ride to Picãozinho?
The crossing from Tambaú beach takes about 15 minutes.
When is the best time to visit Picãozinho?
In the weeks of the new moon and full moon, when low tides are strongest. Between November and March the water is usually clearer.
Can you go to Picãozinho at any time of day?
No. The pools only form at low tide, so departure times change every day according to the tide table.
Do I need to know how to swim to go to Picãozinho?
It helps, because the water usually reaches your waist even at low tide. The boats provide life jackets for those who are not strong swimmers.
Does the Picãozinho trip cost money?
Yes, you get there on a paid boat trip, booked with operators on Tambaú beach or with agencies.