:: Pipa Guide 2009 :: Praia da Pipa - Rio Grande do Norte

PRAIA DA PIPA
6 km south of Tibau do Sul, Pipa's collection of beaches are the most exciting and well-known in Rio Grande do Norte and include some of the most spectacular in Brazil. It is cosmopolitan and international where many Brazilian accents & languages from around the world flow together. Tours through the forests, dunes and along the beaches are always a pleasure and the flavours provided by the town's gastronomy will satisfy even the most demanding of palates. Pipa's nightlife is always buzzing with many bars offering live music… the energy is contagious and resistance is futile. A little further south is Praia das Minas: 7km of deserted beaches featuring segregated areas for the protected turtles.

Praia do Centro

Beaches in Pipa

PRAIA DO CURRAL (BAY OF DOLPHINS)

Practically an extension of Praia do Madeiro, the bay is named after the wooden corral used by fishermen of old. Because of the ever-present dolphins (who put on a show of their own) the bay is now more commonly known as Baia dos Golfinos, or simply Golfinos. The waves are good for surfing, kite-surfing and swimming. There are no beach bars here however you will find walking salesmen selling refreshments (if in doubt take water with you). This beach is only accessible on foot from neighbouring beaches so be sure to consult a tidal chart before heading off. It is also a regular stop on local boat routes.

At weekends, when the tide is low, Pipa's football teams use part of the beach to train for the Annual Championships. The remotest and most untouched of Pipa's beaches this bay is perfect for walking and swimming.

PRAIA DO PORTO, PRAIA DO CENTRO
AND PONTA DO CABO VERDE

Boats for touring and fishing are moored in Praia do Porto… accessed by the stairs leading down to Garagem Bar. Full of small, colourful fish and tiny crabs, low tide reveals innumerable warm-water, natural pools for swimming.
Praia do Centro is where you will find parasols and beach bars. Access is easy and it is possible get there by car.
Ponta do Cabo Verde is the eastern edge of the Vela Vicensa hill. Climbing this hill is rewarded by the most spectacular panoramic view of Pipa.

Sunset in Praia do Centro

Praia do Centro

Praia do Porto

PRAIA DOS AFOGADOS
(Praia do Amor)

Recently voted as amongst the top ten beaches in Brazil this is the preferred beach for surfers (due to its large, strong waves). As a result its currents and occasional rocks can be dangerous for swimming. Be very careful and only enter the water in the presence of surfers or lifeguards.
At the end of the beach is the “Pedra da Pipa” from which Pipa gets its name. There are many natural swimming pools here at low tide… far safer for swimming. You can get to this beach using the steps carved in the cliffs or along the beach from Praia do Centro (via Ponta do Cabo Verde) when the tide is low.

Praia do Amor

CHAPADÃO, PRAIA DAS MINAS AND SIBAÚMA

Moving south one encounters the Chapadão overlooking 6km of deserted beaches, cliffs and wonderful views from Praia das Minas all the way to Sibaúma.
Here the River Catu meets the sea and can be crossed (on foot or by car) by raft to neighbouring Barra do Cunhaú. By beach or clifftop, the route provides excellent opportunities for cycling, walking and buggy trips.
*NB: Driving through the parts of beach protected for the turtles is strictly prohibited.

Chapadão

Praia das Minas

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