With its powdery white sands, crystalline waters, and natural pools teeming with colorful fish, Porto de Galinhas is a firm contender for Brazil’s most idyllic beach destination. Once a sleepy fishing village, it’s now Pernambuco’s worst-kept secret, and the one catch to visiting this palm-fringed paradise is that you’ll never have it to yourself. Naturally, the best things to do in Porto de Galinhas all take place by the ocean. Swim and snorkel at the natural pools, scuba dive along the reefs, then take a boat cruise or buggy tour.
The best time to visit Porto de Galinhas is in the dry season (September–May), but prepare yourself for the crowds if you visit during the peak summer months (December–February)—this is one of the region’s most popular beach towns. The rainy months of March through August are best avoided when daily downpours are expected and visibility is poorer for snorkeling and scuba diving. Note that boat tours to the natural pools are scheduled to coincide with low tide.
The small town of Porto de Galinhas is easy to get around on foot, but you’ll need transport to explore the surrounding beaches. Taxis, Ubers, and dune buggies are available if you don’t have your own transport. Colorful jangadas (traditional sailboats) and schooners ply the coast, and a boat tour to the natural pools or nearby beaches is not to be missed.
The most popular beaches in Porto de Galinhas are Muro Alto and Cupe, but to truly escape the crowds, head south to Serrambi Beach. Quieter and with a more laid-back vibe, this sandy stretch has a few beachside barracas (bar/snack kiosks), sun loungers and parasols for rent, and boat trips to nearby Santo Aleixo Island. Afterward, hop over to neighboring Maracaípe Beach to watch the sunset.
