Clear waters stretch along Brazil's northeastern coast, where coral reefs form natural pools. Tourists swim with sea turtles and tropical fish in warm, shallow lagoons.
In Maragogi, on Brazil's northeastern coast, you can swim among tropical fish in natural pools that form 6 kilometers offshore. Local fishermen guide visitors through the Costa dos Corais in traditional catamarans, while beachgoers relax on 20 kilometers of white sand. At Galés, the low tide reveals calm pools where sea turtles and colorful fish swim near the coral formations.
Swimming in Maragogi's Natural Pools
The Galés natural pools emerge 6 kilometers from shore during low tide. You'll reach these pools on catamaran tours that leave multiple times daily from the main beach. Local guides take you snorkeling to see tropical fish and coral formations in the protected marine environment. Plan your visit around low tide for the best underwater visibility.
Exploring Maragogi's Beaches
Several beaches line the coastline, each with its own character. At Barra Grande Beach, you'll find calm waters and natural pools at low tide, plus food stands along the shore. Praia do Burgalhau remains undeveloped, making it a good spot for water sports in its clear, calm waters. Antunes Beach has shallow waters and ocean hammocks, while the southern beaches near Japaratinga rise alongside 20-meter-high red and orange cliffs.
Getting to Maragogi
Two main airports serve the region: Maceió Airport (MCZ) 125 kilometers south and Recife Airport (REC) to the north. Regular buses run from Maceió to Maragogi through Real Alagoas company. Many visitors rent cars at either airport to explore the coast independently. Local minivans connect the town center with nearby beaches from Terminal Rodoviário de Maragogi.
Weather and Timing Your Visit
Temperatures in Maragogi stay warm year-round, reaching 31°C in January and cooling to 26°C in July. Summer months (December to March) bring more sun and clearer waters for swimming and snorkeling. Winter (April to August) has more rain but fewer tourists. Ocean trade winds keep temperatures moderate throughout the year.
Day Trips Around Maragogi
Take buggy rides along the coast to access remote beaches and small coastal villages. Book boat trips to explore different sections of the coral reef or visit neighboring beach towns. Japaratinga, 8 kilometers south, sits below red cliffs that contrast with its white sand beaches. Many visitors take day trips to Porto de Galinhas or Carneiros Beach in the neighboring state of Pernambuco.
