Pipa Beach is just an hour and a half’s drive from the laid-back city of Natal. This cool, coastal enclave has it all – a buzzing, international vibe, striking coastal cliffs and beaches where you can swim with dolphins or slap on a natural mud mask.
What makes Pipa Beach special?
Pipa combines the beauty of nature with a trendy, cosmopolitan atmosphere. The spectacular beaches backed by sheer cliffs will leave you feeling far from civilisation, but the bustling village streets filled with bars, restaurants and stores will keep you from getting bored. Pipa is just a short drive south from Natal, and it’s well worth staying a few nights.
Pipa is home to some of Brazil’s most famous beaches. Most are lined with umbrellas and deck chairs, as well as bars and restaurants. You can easily spend the whole day here eating, drinking and jumping in and out of the inviting waters. The waves are great for surfing too.
Baia dos Golfinhos (Dolphin Bay), as the name suggests, is famous for its dolphins, which can be seen leaping out of the water. If you come at low tide, you can walk to this somewhat deserted beach on foot, or you can take a boat tour from the village. The turquoise waters against the sheer red cliffs make for some fantastic photos.
While popular with tourists, Pipa doesn’t feel like an artificial town created for foreign visitors. This is a real town with real lives being lived. The dusty backstreets and ramshackle houses are all part of its charm. At night, the main streets come alive with wandering tourists, and fill with the sounds of languages and live music. There are dining options for every budget, from sushi and seafood restaurants overlooking the water, to trendy burger bars and pizza joints. Strolling past each one and perusing the menu is part of the evening ritual.
Things to do in Pipa Beach
Lagoa de Guaraíras: In the adjacent village of Tibau do Sul you’ll find a strip of restaurants and bars along the shoreline. From here, you can take a boat out into the shimmering waters of Lagoa de Guaraíras. There’s a makeshift bar here, where you can grab a chair beneath an umbrella and enjoy a cocktail or two, or maybe an ice-cold beer. It’s very surreal to be so far from the shore but in such shallow waters. To add to the experience, you can also scoop mud out from underneath your feet and give yourself a natural mud mask. A truly unique way to spend the day!
Mirante Sunset Bar: No trip to Pipa is complete without capturing a sunset at this place. High up above the treetops, this funky bar offers first class views. Listen to music and enjoy a caipirinha while you gaze out over the treetops towards the cliffs, the sea and the sunset.
Baía dos Golfinhos: Definitely check out this splendid stretch of coastline. Here you can splash about in the waves and, if you’re lucky, spot the occasional dolphin.
Praia do Madero: A timber staircase will take you from the top of the cliffs to the inviting sands below. Grab a chair, order a few drinks and soak up the serenity. This beach is one of my all time favourites in Brazil – it has just the right combination of white sand, pounding waves and creature comforts.
How to get to Pipa
By car – from Natal
Make your way south out of the city towards the BR101 highway. Stay on the BR101 highway for about 45 minutes until you reach Goianinha. Look out for the signs to Praia da Pipa. You’ll be directed to an underpass which will take you to the other side of the highway. Shortly you’ll see a right turn to the RN-303 which you will follow for around 40 minutes until you reach the entrance to the village of Pipa. Be sure to ask if your pousada has parking, as the narrow village streets can get quite busy.
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Last updated: 26 Nov 2023