João Pessoa

Ponta do Seixas, one of the region’s most beloved beaches, holds a unique distinction as the place where the sun rises first in Brazil. Nestled within its shores is the Cabo Branco Lighthouse, marking the easternmost point of the American continents. For those seeking an alternative experience, Tambaba Beach awaits, renowned as the first naturist beach in Brazil’s Northeast Region and considered one of the most stunning beaches in Paraíba state. Another must-visit destination is Cabo Branco Beach, offering unforgettable panoramic views from its towering 40-meter sandstone wall. In total, the local beaches stretch over 30 kilometers of the state’s coastline, providing an array of enticing options for tourists to explore.

The crystalline natural pools add to the region’s allure, creating a unique spectacle. During low tide, these beautiful pools form amidst the coral reefs, inviting visitors to observe the colorful local fish up close. The Picãozinho, Seixas, and Caribessa natural pools, just off the coast, are awe-inspiring attractions that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

For a truly different experience, consider a visit to Alligator Beach (Praia do Jacaré). Many visitors flock to this beach to witness the mesmerizing sunset. As twilight descends, musicians on rafts perform Ravel’s Bolero, creating a truly captivating ambiance. Another not-to-be-missed attraction is Red Sand Island (Ilha de Areia Vermelha), showcasing reddish sandbanks enveloped by natural reefs that form during low tide.

The local cuisine is a delightful adventure in itself. João Pessoa takes pride in being one of the country’s foremost producers of rapadura (unrefined whole cane sugar in solid form) and cachaça (a distilled spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice), a legacy from its golden age of sugar factories. As expected, seafood is abundant along the coast of Paraíba. However, visitors looking to savor something distinctive can indulge in two typical dishes from the state’s hinterland: sun-dried beef and buchada de bode (goat intestines cooked and served in the goat’s stomach, akin to the Scottish Haggis). Sun-dried beef is often served with cassava, black-eyed peas, and liquid butter, while buchada is accompanied by rice.

Tambaú Market is a captivating evening option, offering the chance to delve into local handcrafts, including embroidery, crochet techniques, and intricate pottery work. Various products like handbags, bedspreads, towels, and clothing showcase the artisans’ skill and dedication.

For culture enthusiasts, the historic center of João Pessoa, added to the National Heritage List by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN), is a true delight. Boasting an array of architectural styles from different eras, including colonial, art nouveau, and art deco, the city center stands as the primary architectural collection in the state of Paraíba. An essential addition to your itinerary is Solon de Lucena Park, one of the city’s most sought-after attractions. Here, visitors are captivated by the park’s magical water fountain, a colorful spectacle not to be missed.