Rio Grande do Norte
Beaches, Sand Dunes, Buggy Rides, Pipa, Natural Reefs, Kitesurfing, Dolphins, Year-Round Sunshine
Rio Grande do Norte sits on the north-eastern corner of Brazil, where the coastline turns from facing east to facing north. Steady trade winds and around 300 days of sunshine a year have shaped a landscape of golden beaches, towering sand dunes, freshwater lagoons and coral reefs.
The capital, Natal, is the gateway, with the beach and giant dune of Ponta Negra and the star-shaped Forte dos Reis Magos at the mouth of the Potengi river. Just north, the shifting dunes of Genipabu are explored by buggy, and offshore reefs at Maracajaú form natural pools for snorkelling at low tide.
South of Natal, the village of Pipa is known for its red cliffs, dolphin-filled bays and lively restaurants, while São Miguel do Gostoso, to the north, draws kitesurfers with its constant winds and laid-back atmosphere.
Top Reasons to Visit Rio Grande do Norte
1. Buggy Rides on the Genipabu Dunes
Ride a buggy over the moving dunes of Genipabu, near Natal, with stops at freshwater lagoons and viewpoints over the sea. Choose registered operators who respect the protected area.
2. Pipa
Swim in the Baía dos Golfinhos, where dolphins often come close to shore, walk beneath the coloured cliffs and enjoy the village's restaurants and nightlife.
3. Natal and Ponta Negra
Relax on Ponta Negra beach beneath the dune of Morro do Careca and visit the 16th-century Forte dos Reis Magos, where the city was founded.
4. Snorkelling at Maracajaú
Take a boat to the parrachos, reefs several kilometres offshore that form clear natural pools full of tropical fish at low tide.
5. Kitesurfing in São Miguel do Gostoso
The steady winds of the north coast make São Miguel do Gostoso one of Brazil's favourite kitesurfing and windsurfing destinations.
6. Festivals and Local Flavours
Join the crowds at Carnatal, Natal's out-of-season carnival, and try local dishes such as carne de sol, tapioca and fresh shrimp.
