AL · Brazil
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Get to know the place
The capital of Alagoas is known for its turquoise sea protected by reefs, which form natural pools at low tide. Jangadas (traditional sailing rafts) take you to the Pajuçara pools; the Ponta Verde and Jatiúca waterfront is made for walking; and the lacemakers of Pontal da Barra work on the shore of Lagoa Mundaú (lagoon). To the north are São Miguel dos Milagres and Maragogi; to the south, Praia do Gunga.
This destination brings together 1 city: Maceió.
A look at the place
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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One destination, many paths
Start with one city or combine several in your itinerary.
The local experience
Formed by the reefs about 1 km from shore, they are reached at low tide aboard the jangadas that leave from the beach. The waterfront in front has the city's best facilities, with a 2.7 km boardwalk.
Discover Piscinas naturais da Pajuçara
Located between Pajuçara and Jatiúca beaches, it has a sea protected by coral formations. It is home to the Marco dos Corais, an observation platform built over the sea.
At the southern end, between the sea and Lagoa Mundaú, the neighborhood is known for making filé, a typical Alagoas lace of colorful openwork fabric. On Rua das Rendeiras, artisans work and sell their pieces directly.
The lagoon, about 23 km long, is explored by schooner or boat on a tour that circles nine islands, such as Ilha do Almirante and Ilha de Santa Rita. The islands are seen from the boat, with only occasional landings.
Discover Lagoa Mundaú e passeio das nove ilhas
Neoclassical in style and designed by a French architect, its construction was completed in 1859 and it was listed in 1950. Emperor Pedro II attended services there, and it has a wide staircase at the entrance.
Discover Catedral Metropolitana de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres
Linked to the Federal University of Alagoas, it has occupied an eclectic building on Avenida da Paz, in Jaraguá, since 1977. It holds the folk art collection donated by the folklorist, with ceramics, crafts and recordings of regional music.
On the north coast, it is home to a fishing village and small natural pools where fish gather at low tide. It is one of the most laid-back beaches in the north of the city.
About 20 km from downtown, on the north coast, it is around 8 km long. The landscape is defined by white sand and the coconut groves that line the whole shore.
Your base to explore
Where you stay is part of the trip. Choose the area that best fits your itinerary.
A hotel on Avenida Doutor Antônio Gouveia, on the Pajuçara waterfront, near the beach and the neighborhood's restaurants. It has a pool, a gym, a game room and rooms with sea views, and suits those who want to stay on the urban waterfront with full facilities.
An all-inclusive resort on Praia de Ipioca, on the AL-101 Norte highway, on Maceió's north coast. It has several pools, a kids' club, a spa, a gym and four dining venues, and caters mainly to families with children.
A pousada on Rua Hilda de Melo Aciolly, on Praia de Ipioca, on Maceió's north coast. It has a pool, suites with a minibar and some with a kitchenette, and suits those who prefer a quieter place away from the urban waterfront.
Flavors of the destination
A restaurant on Avenida Doutor Antônio Gouveia, facing the Pajuçara waterfront. It serves seafood and Brazilian dishes with careful presentation, and suits beachgoers who want a leisurely meal.
A restaurant on Avenida Doutor Antônio Gouveia, on the Pajuçara waterfront. It serves typical Northeastern dishes in generous portions and suits those who want to try regional cuisine near the beach.
A restaurant on Rua Doutor Lessa de Azevedo, in Pajuçara. It serves house-made pasta with Italian and Spanish influences and signature desserts, and suits those looking for an alternative to the waterfront seafood.
Before you go
A little planning leaves more time to enjoy the journey.
Through Zumbi dos Palmares International Airport, about 25 km from the waterfront.
From September to March, with more sun; rain is concentrated from April to July. For the natural pools, check the tide table: they appear at low tide.
Take your trash with you, follow the signs and support local businesses. In natural areas, follow the visiting guidelines.
