Baia Formosa

Baía Formosa is a charming town surrounded by tree-covered cliffs, serene beaches and rows of quaint boats at sea. Its namesake beach is spectacular, with reddish dunes and rocky waves ideal for surfers. Relax on the many quiet beaches that seem a world away from stress and urbanity.

The stretches of sand run along the coast for about 16 miles (26 kilometers). Admire the ponds, trails and mangrove forests that decorate these beaches. Enjoy a picnic on Sagi Beach or Bacupari Beach, among the best known of these sandy havens. Others include Spring Water Beach, Cacimba Beach, Point Secret and Dolphin Bay. The latter, beside the port, is a popular fishing spot. See dolphins leaping from the water off the coast of the town.

Marvel at the scenic Araraquara Lake, which is nicknamed the Coca-Cola Lake for its dark water, quite safe for swimming. Note the tree roots that grow fruit in this terrain, which is rich in iodine and iron oxide. Junco Lake is another interesting natural water feature.

Beyond the town is the Mata de Estrela, which is the largest Atlantic forest reserve in the state with more than 4,900 acres (2,000 hectares) of woodland. Note that certain parts of the forest are restricted.

Stay for the picturesque sunset, when vacationers and locals gather at the town’s viewpoints. Enjoy the romantic ambiance as you walk along the seaside boulevard.

The town is the easternmost commune in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. Note that Baía Formosa is Portuguese for Beautiful Bay. It is said that upon arriving, the Portuguese exclaimed: “Oh what a beautiful bay!”

Baía Formosa is 60 miles (100 kilometers) south along Brazil’s eastern coast from Natal. Get around the small town on a rented buggy or by using the bus system. Ferries transport passengers between the secluded beaches of the area. Visit the upscale resort of Pipa, a 38-mile (60-kilometer) drive north.