Tamandare
Unwind amid the unspoiled natural beauty of Tamandaré. This beach town boasts one of Brazil’s finest areas of coastline, which runs for about 10 miles (16 kilometers) along the Atlantic Ocean. Rarely crowded, Tamandaré is an ideal destination to relax year-round beneath the almost constant sunshine. Swim, sunbathe, go for long walks and partake in water sports.
The town’s major attraction is undoubtedly its beaches. Each has an immaculate stretch of fine white sand backed by coconut palms that sway in the gentle sea breeze. Closest to the town center is Tamandaré Beach. Find bars and seafood shacks set along the beachfront promenade. North of here is Praia das Campas, a beach framed by colonial-style accommodation options. While here, visit St. Peter’s Church, dedicated to the town’s patron saint.
At the northern edge of the town’s coastline is the jaw-dropping Carneiros Beach. Swim in the transparent water and tidal pools, which emerge at low tide. Spot colorful fish and inspect them up-close with rented snorkeling gear. Admire the elegance of the 18th-century St. Benedict Chapel. Board a catamaran and enjoy a cruise to natural sandbanks and mud pools.
South of the town center is Pontal do Lira Beach, popular for its market stalls that sell local handicrafts. Wander around the ruins of the Fort of St. Ignatius, built to shelter Portuguese vessels and stave off attacks from Dutch invaders.
For more natural attractions, visit Guadalupe, a vast area of Atlantic forests, coral reefs, river estuaries and mangroves crisscrossed by walking trails. Spot varied wildlife, such as armadillos and toucans, and gaze in awe at Bulha Waterfall in Saltinho Biological Reserve.
Get to Tamandaré by flying to Recife and then catch a bus or rent a car from there. Tour operators arrange daytrips to the town from Porto de Galinhas, which is a 1-hour drive to the north. A range of hotel resorts, family-run posadas and self-catering chalets set just steps from the beaches provide comfortable accommodation if you choose to stay overnight.