Are you searching for things to do in Maceió? You’ve come to the right place! Below is a comprehensive list of attractions in the city and nearby areas. Take a look!
The comprehensive guide of things to do in Maceió includes urban beaches, crystal-clear sand dunes unique to the northeast region, natural pools, boat excursions, historic districts, and more. To ensure you don’t miss out on any tourist attractions, we have compiled a post with helpful tips on what to visit in the city.
To gain a deeper insight into the area, it is recommended to allocate a day to explore Maceió, the capital of Alagoas, as well as neighboring cities like Maragogi, São Miguel dos Milagres, Gunga Beach, and French Beach, all of which are conveniently located within a one to three-hour drive from each other.
I spent a week in an Alagoan city and booked travel packages with CVC, in partnership with WS Tur Receptivo, which organizes most tours in the area. It was convenient as everything was already included, such as transfers from the hotel, access to beach clubs, and even cold water during trips. It was a worthwhile experience!
Now, keep reading to ensure you remember everything you experience in Maceió and the surrounding area! ♫
In this article, you will find:
- Key attractions in Maceió and its surroundings
- Points of interest in the vicinity of Maceió
- Top beaches in Maceió
- Alternative activities in Maceió beyond just the beaches.
- Activities to enjoy in Maceió at no cost
- Activities to enjoy with children in Maceio
- Activities to engage in while in Maceió
- Activities to engage in while in Maceió
- Dining establishments in Maceió
- Accommodation options in Maceió
- Explore additional recommendations for Maceió.
- Commonly Asked Questions
Key attractions in Maceió and surrounding areas
We have curated a collection of the most breathtaking landmarks in the city, including everything from beaches to historic districts, appealing to a diverse range of visitors from kids to adults.
Ponta Verde Beach
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It is recommended to spend a day or more at the central beaches of Maceió, particularly Ponta Verde which features a serene and clear sea. Along its coastline, there are various picturesque spots for photography, such as the Giant Chair, as well as natural pools that form during low tide and the renowned Moses’ path leading to the Ponta Verde Lighthouse. In essence, it is a location suitable for all types of visitors.
I was amazed by the stunning and well-equipped urban beach in Maceió. Along with a central infrastructure that includes numerous restaurants, kiosks, and beach clubs, the beach boasts clear, warm, and natural pool-like waters that are unique to Maceió. Within this beach area, you can also find the Marco dos Corals and two nearby beaches, which we will provide further information about shortly.
Title: Coral’s Signature
The Coral Landmark is a square area in the ocean that is open to visitors of all ages. Guests can explore and admire the coral landscape by walking on a pathway above the water. It is also an ideal spot for capturing stunning photographs.
When the tide is low, the area around the catwalk turns into a natural pool. You can step off the catwalk and immediately enjoy a refreshing swim while observing colorful fish among the coral reefs up close. Signs also indicate that Maceió is one of the few capitals worldwide with an urban waterfront bordered by coral reefs. It truly is a special privilege, isn’t it?
Pajuçara Beach description
Pajuçara Beach is located close to Ponta Verde in the south, serving as the departure point for rafts heading towards the natural pools of Pajuçara. This area also features several beachside stalls offering services such as chair and parasol rentals for an average price of R$ 20. Additionally, there are restaurants, numerous hotels in Maceió, and the well-known Pavilion of Crafts in the vicinity.
Craft Pavilion
The Handicraft Pavilion is a must-visit for those interested in purchasing souvenirs and traditional items from the area. They offer a variety of products such as clothing, accessories, home decor, keychains, handmade crafts, handbags, and more. The pavilion is open every day until 10:00 pm. For further details, please check the information provided.
I took a short stroll and purchased a handmade seashell with a lively label typical of the northeast. I also got some keychains as gifts for my family and a traditional bottle of butter to enjoy with cassava.
Across the street, you can also find the Free Craft Fair and, more recently, the Arts Market 31 (located near the port), which are both worth checking out.
Paraphrase: Information about Jatiúca Beach.
The Jatiuca beach is located to the north of Ponta Verde and is part of the central area of the capital. In Maceió, there are numerous restaurants, beachside kiosks, and hotels here. It is important to mention that as you go further north, the sea becomes more turbulent and there are fewer amenities for visitors. However, it is still recommended to include this beach in your list of activities to do in Maceió.
Sereia Beach and Ipioca Beach, located to the north of Maceió.
For those who prefer secluded and peaceful beaches, the northern beaches of Maceió are the ideal choice. Ipioca beach is known for its popular beach clubs like Hibiscus and Rios Beach Club Guard, offering great amenities to enhance your experience at the location.
The Sereia beach features a coral reef and natural pools during low tide. The sea is lively, and in the center stands a mermaid sculpture representing Iemanjá, the patron saint of fishermen.
Barra Point and Munda Lagoon
chsyys/FreePik
Pontal da Barra is a quaint and historic neighborhood located south of Maceió, only a 15-minute drive from Pajuçara beach. This area is famous for the craftsmanship of the lace makers, who produce the delicate filé embroidery, recognized as an important cultural heritage of Alagoas, as well as the local fishermen. You are likely to encounter artisans creating lace on the streets, and it is recommended to purchase some of their pieces as souvenirs.
The environment in Pontal da Barra is serene and has a historical charm, where the Mundaú lagoon merges with the ocean. Visitors can also partake in boat excursions to appreciate the scenery up close, including the stunning sunset views.
Maceió’s Historic Center
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Another way to explore Maceió’s history is by visiting its historical landmarks. While the city doesn’t have a designated historic district, there are attractions that can be visited in a single day. An example is Mirante São Gonçalo, situated in Praça Rosalvo Ribeiro across from the Church São Gonçalo. Although the site is modest, it offers picturesque photo opportunities and even hosts a small crafts market.
Within close proximity is the Metropolitan Cathedral, followed by the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Blacks and the Floriano Peixoto Palace Museum, located across from Martyrdom Square, all less than a kilometer away.
Another famous tourist attraction in Maceió is the Théo Brandão Museum of Anthropology and Folklore, which displays a collection of the folklorist Théo Brandão in a grand 19th-century palace. Regrettably, it is currently closed with no set reopening date, but it is advisable to monitor the museum’s Instagram for any updates.
Jaraguá’s district
The Jaraguá neighborhood in Maceió can be seen as a historical area, with well-preserved buildings, historic mansions, museums, and even cobblestone streets, which add to its charm. Historians believe that the neighborhood was originally a fishing village that developed near the village of Maceió.
There are authentic French posts and even the third original model of the Statue of Liberty. Other points of interest include the Alagoana Commercial Association, the Capelinha do Jaraguá, the Museum of Image and Sound (MISA), the Memorial to the Republic, the Museum of Technology, the Casa do Patrimônio, the Fundação Teotônio Vilela, and Porto. Make sure to capture a photo in the iconic Maceió frame at Praça Dois Leões.
Pajuçara’s natural pools
Alagoas boasts numerous natural pools, primarily situated in the northern area known as the Coral Coast. While Maceió is home to just the natural pools of Pajuçara, other renowned and stunning natural pools can be found around the capital, including those in Maragogi, São Miguel dos Milagres, and Paripueira.
To access the Pajuçara natural pool, visitors can arrange a ride on a raft, speedboat, or catamaran. Booking in advance with tour agencies such as CVC and WS Tur Receptivo is recommended to avoid negotiating on the spot. However, boats are also available for hire directly on the beach.
One key point to note is that natural pools are only visible during low tide when the tide gauge reads 0.0 or a maximum of 0.5, or during a full moon or new moon. At the lowest sea levels, coral reefs create shallow pools with clear waters, allowing for a delightful experience. It is possible to swim with the water reaching waist height and still observe fish up close.
Places of interest in the vicinity of Maceió
The nearby cities surrounding Maceió are located within a one to three-hour drive from the capital. It is beneficial to set aside a few days of your trip to explore these cities. Some people may opt to stay in Maceió and take day trips to other locations, while others may choose to stay in a different town to avoid traffic and save time. The decision is up to each individual’s preference!
I decided to stay at a hotel in Maceió for exploring the capital and nearby cities within a 40-minute radius, but also chose to stay at a hotel in Maragogi and on French beach for a more relaxed experience in those destinations. I booked my tours through WS Tur Receptive, as they were part of my CVC package.
Maragogi – Activities to enjoy in Maragogi
Maragogi is a popular destination near Maceió, well-known for its natural pools, Antunes beach, Moses’ Way, and buggy rides. It was in this location that I discovered the reason behind its reputation as the “Brazilian Caribbean”, as the sea boasts a truly exceptional crystal-clear color.
The town is quite tiny, featuring narrow land streets and few attractions. Its main highlights are the sea and natural surroundings, making activities like beach enjoyment, buggy rides, and boat tours to natural pools popular among visitors. Antunes Beach is well-known, while Barra Grande Beach is where you can find the Moses Path, a sandbank that appears during low tide – make sure to check the tide schedule.
Maragogi offers various boat tours that explore its beaches and provide opportunities for unique photos in handcrafted settings, typically featuring coconut and wooden elements. Local boatmen also guide visitors to the natural pools, where they can take photos with the vibrant fish. Some popular natural pools in the area include Galés, Taocas, and Barra Grande.
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Gunga Beach (Script)
Another favorite destination among travelers is Gunga Beach, situated on Route, around a 40-minute drive from Maceió. This particular stretch of sand is unique as it is where the sea converges with Lagoa do Screenplay, providing swimmers with the option of enjoying either fresh or saltwater. The scenery is stunning, with views of the vast ocean and lush vegetation surrounding the river.
One benefit of this beach is its great facilities. It features numerous spacious kiosks on the sand, a craft fair selling traditional clothing and souvenirs, and a variety of activities like buggy rides on the cliffs, banana boat rides, paramotoring, and even opportunities for flying boat rides and boat tours to view the oyster beds. However, it’s advisable to plan ahead as the place tends to be busy and there are parking fees.
French Beach in Marechal Deodoro.
Marshal Deodoro is where you’ll find the famous French beach, a popular destination for tourists. This beach is bustling, especially on weekends, and offers both a calm side of the sea thanks to a natural barrier, as well as a wavier side, perfect for surfers. Additionally, there are natural pools to enjoy, and the color of the sea is stunning.
The city is very charming and rich in history, offering various attractions to explore in addition to the beach. Visitors can enjoy churches, museums, and restaurants with a variety of cuisine, including the famous regional dish cocadas. Additionally, the city is the birthplace of Marechal Deodoro da Fonseca, the first president of Brazil, and his former residence is now a free museum open to the public.
Dream Green Beach (Paripueira)
The Green Dream beach is a tranquil escape from the city and is considered a must-see attraction in Maceió. This stretch of sand is not overcrowded, allowing visitors to relax without the hustle and bustle of the busier central beaches.
The beach boasts well-maintained natural surroundings with picturesque coconut trees lining the perimeter. Staying at a beach club is recommended for optimal comfort and convenience while enjoying the beach. Anauê beach club is a popular option, offering amenities such as live music, a restaurant, a pool, clean bathrooms, a children’s playground, and kiosks, as well as organizing tours. I personally stayed there and had a great experience!
Carro Quebrado Beach (Barra de Santo Antônio)
Carro Quebrado Beach is nearly empty, with minimal facilities and clear waters bordered by vibrant cliffs. Visitors can enjoy a stunning viewpoint and some guides offer activities such as painting with clays sourced from the cliffs, which were traditionally used by the Caetés Indians in various natural colors.
The beach of Quebrado Car is located near the beach of Green Dream, making it possible to visit both in one day. Access to Quebrado Car can be challenging, so it is recommended to use a buggy or a 4×4 vehicle. I personally opted for a jeep tour departing from Green Dream, which was a smooth and peaceful experience.
I encountered a lost couple traveling by car on my way. It is advisable to travel with individuals familiar with the area. The WS Tur Receptive was the tour company in charge of my trip, and the guide and driver were locals who were well-versed in the area. This made the journey much safer.
São Miguel dos Milagres is the name of the place.
If you enjoy peaceful and idyllic beaches, São Miguel dos Milagres is the perfect destination for you! The ocean here is a stunning shade of blue that blends with the sky. The city has a charming and relaxed atmosphere, with quaint streets and friendly, down-to-earth locals.
Milagres is located 100 km from the capital and offers buggy tours that include stops at various attractions and beaches in the area, as well as the option to relax at beach clubs like Santo Milagres. This was one of my favorite tours to experience.
Mouth of the San Francisco River
The Foz do Rio San Francisco excursion was the most thrilling experience I participated in, and I strongly suggest it! It departs from a town named Piaçabuçu, which is two and a half hours away from Maceió (136 km). A boat then travels towards the point where the Rio San Francisco meets the ocean, situated near the border of Alagoas and Sergipe.
In order to reach the destination, one must book a tour through a tour agency, which offers options such as buggy rides combined with a boat tour or transfer followed by a boat tour. I personally booked mine through WS Tur Receptivo and CVC, where a van picked me up from the hotel and took me to a riverside restaurant. From there, we boarded a catamaran to reach the destination.
The landscape throughout the tour is truly unbelievable. The lush vegetation along the river is plentiful, and when you reach the mouth with its shifting sand dunes, the breathtaking natural beauty is awe-inspiring. It’s no surprise that this location was featured in the movie “God is Brazilian” starring Antônio Fagundes. It’s highly recommended to include this excursion in your list of things to do in Maceió and the surrounding area.
Top beaches in Maceió
The urban and bustling beaches of Maceió, such as Ponta Verde, Jatíuca, and Pajuçara, are just as stunning as more remote ones. These beaches have clear waters, gentle waves, and pleasant temperatures. During low tide, they resemble natural pools, particularly Ponta Verde where a pathway to the lighthouse is revealed.
Next, in the periphery of the city, you can explore other stunning beaches that are worth adding to your travel plans. Gunga beach in Roteiro and French beach in Marechal Deodoro are more popular and offer good amenities. São Miguel dos Milagres and Maragogi beaches feature clear blue waters and fewer beachfront establishments, providing a tranquil atmosphere and numerous natural pools.
Other beach choices near Maceió include Carro Quebrado Beach, which is quieter, and Sonho Verde Beach, which is also uncrowded but offers more beach club options.
Take note of or make a printout of this list featuring the top beaches in Maceió.
- Ponta Verde Beach in Maceió
- Pajuçara Beach in Maceió
- Jatiuca Beach in Maceio
- Gunga Beach (Script)
- French Beach in Marechal Deodoro
- Antunes Beach, located in Maragogi.
- Barra Grande Beach in Maragogi.
- Beach of São Miguel dos Milagres
- Touch Beach (São Miguel dos Milagres) – Paraphrased as “Touch Beach in São Miguel dos Milagres”
Suggestions for activities in Maceió that don’t involve going to the beach.
How about setting aside some time during your trip to Maceió to explore beyond the beaches? There are plenty of activities to enjoy away from the water, such as shopping for souvenirs at the craft fair, learning about the craftsmanship of lace makers and fishermen in Pontal da Barra, sampling local cuisine at restaurants in Maceió, visiting museums, and more. Check out the suggestions below:
- Craft Pavilion
- Pontal da Barra and Munda Lagoon.
- Texto: Observatório de São Gonçalo
- Paraphrased: Large city cathedral
- Text: The Black Virgin’s Church of Our Lady of the Rosary
- The museum at Floriano Peixoto Palace.
- Jaraguá’s residential area
Activities in Maceió that won’t cost you anything
You can take pleasure in the beaches at no cost, provided that you don’t use beach chairs and umbrellas. The Coral Reef Mark is another free attraction, along with the historic churches in the city. The Municipal Park in Maceió is also a free tourist destination where you can observe yellow-talk alligators and other animals. Check out the following list for free activities in the city’s capital:
- Maceió Municipal Park – The text is about the Maceió Municipal Park.
- Overview of São Gonçalo Lookout
- Metropolitan Cathedral – Rewrite the text.
- The text refers to the Church dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black.
- The Beaches of Maceió
- Title: Coral’s Significance
- Text: Church dedicated to Jesus’ suffering and death
- Floriano Peixoto Palace Museum – Rewording the text
Activities for children in Maceio
Text: Many of the attractions in Maceió are child-friendly. The beaches in the city center, for instance, have gentle waves, making it safe for young children to enjoy. You can also have a picnic at Municipal Park, visit Maceió Shopping, go cycling along the waterfront, or take a boat ride to the natural pools, which are shallow and wave-free even at high tide. Check out our suggestions below:
- Beaches in Maceió
- Pajuçara’s natural pools
- Maceió City Park
- Title: Coral’s Indication
- Maceió Shopping center
- Maceió Convention Center – a venue for conferences and events in Maceió.
- TruckZone – a zone specifically designed for trucks.
- Museum of the Floriano Peixoto Palace
Activities to enjoy in Maceió
Looking for a great restaurant in Maceió is a nice idea to consider after a long day, particularly if they offer live music. Another suggestion is to enjoy a night cruise on a trimaran boat provided by the Lopana Beach Bar – it offers a unique experience. You can also explore attractions at the Maceió Convention Center, visit nightclubs, or simply stroll along the city’s waterfront.
- Dining establishments in Maceió
- Maceió Shopping Center
- Maceió Convention Center – a facility for hosting conferences and events in Maceió.
- Night Tour on a Trimaran (Lopana Beach Bar)
- Texto: Club de la Alegría
- “Beautiful Maceió”
- Stroll along the coastline of Maceió.
Activities to do in Maceió
The rain won’t affect your sightseeing in Maceió, as there are plenty of attractions to explore even when the weather isn’t ideal for the beach. Check out our recommended list below:
- Maceió Shopping Centre
- Craft Pavilion
- Dining establishments in Maceió.
- Maceió Convention Center – Maceió’s official venue for conferences and events.
- Museum of the Floriano Peixoto Palace
- Metropolitan Cathedral – Metropolitan Cathedral
- Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black Church
Dining establishments in the city of Maceió.
The region offers a variety of traditional dishes such as sunshine, shrimp whip, tapiocas, cuscuz, seafood moqueca, and cocada. Bodega do Sertão is known for its regional cuisine and is a must-visit to experience the authentic flavors of the Northeast.
However, aside from local dishes, the city of Alagoana’s capital also provides a diverse range of culinary options through its many restaurants in Maceió. Check out some of the most popular ones below:
- Sertão’s Cellar (Jatiúca)
- Janga Raia restaurant located in Ponta Verde.
- TruckZone (Jaunch) – TruckZone’s location (Jaunch)
- Lopana beach bar and restaurant located in Ponta Verde.
Accommodation options in Maceió
Maceió offers great accommodation options, particularly if you plan to use it as a central hub for exploring nearby cities. The top recommended areas to stay in are Pajuçara, Ponta Verde, and Jaitiúca, as they are centrally located beaches with easy access to amenities.
It’s also an option to stay in nearby towns. A suggestion is to select accommodations in different places you wish to explore for an extended period, as this can make traveling less exhausting. For instance, consider staying in hotels in Maragogi, guesthouses in São Miguel dos Milagres, or beachfront inns in Patacho.
Hotels in Maceió
If you would rather stay at a hotel in Maceió, we have listed the most appropriate ones for you to reserve below. However, if you are still unsure, it is also recommended to explore our articles on guesthouses and resorts in Maceió.
- Hotel Brisa Suites in Pajuçara Beach offers daily rates starting from R$ 519, with a rating of 8.8.
- Ritz Lagoa da Anta Hotel & SPA (Praia Cruz das Almas) is available for daily stays starting at R$ 702, with a rating of 8.2.
- Best Western Premier located on Pajuçara Beach offers a daily rate starting from R$ 558 with a rating of 9.2.
- Hotel Brisa Praia, located on Pajuçara Beach, offers daily rates starting at R$ 474 and has received a rating of 8.7.
Discover additional hotels in Maceió to guarantee a flawless accommodation experience.
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- Text: Ponta Verde French Hotel
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Explore additional recommendations for Maceió.
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- Could you please provide the text that you would like me to paraphrase?
- Could you please provide more context or specific details about the text you would like me to paraphrase?
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- Hotels and accommodation options in Alagoas.
- Accommodation options in Maceió for budget travelers.
- Hotels in Maceió
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- Eating establishments in Maceió
- Top beaches in Maceió
- Maragogi description
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Commonly Asked Questions
Maceio and the entire Alagoas state have a consistently warm climate, making it a good destination at any time of the year. Keep in mind that summer is the peak season with more crowds, while winter has occasional rain and fewer visitors, offering better deals on accommodations and airfares.
The beaches and natural pools are the highlights of Maceió and nearby cities, including Ponta Verde beach and the natural pools of Pajuçara in Maceió, Gunga beach in Roteiro, French beach in Marechal Deodoro, and the beaches of Maragogi.
Walking to the natural pools by boat is a must-do experience, where you can observe vibrant fish up close and swim in shallow, crystal-clear waters in the open sea.
Explore Maceió Municipal Park, take a stroll at Coral Landmark, dine at TruckZone, and safely enjoy the natural pools with young children.
If it rains, there are plenty of indoor activities to do in Maceió, including exploring attractions such as Maceió Shopping, the Floriano Peixoto Palace Museum, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Blacks, and the Handicraft Pavilion, as well as dining at the city’s restaurants.
We strongly suggest considering the travel packages offered by CVC and WS Tur Receptive! They collaborate with various tourism companies in the area, allowing them to offer competitive prices.
Some of the no-cost attractions in Maceió include Maceió Municipal Park, São Gonçalo Lookout, Coral Reef Marker, and Floriano Peixoto Palace Museum.
The top restaurants in Maceió include Sertão Bodega, Grazie Pizza Napoletana, and Tapioca Maria Bonita. In the surrounding areas of the city, you can also find excellent dining options like Anauê Sonho Verde, Maré Beach Maragogi, Santo Milagres Beach Club, and Paju Praia.
We recommend and stay at the following hotels in Maceió: Ritz Lagoa da Anta, Maragogi Brisa Exclusive Hotel, and Hotel Ponta Verde French. Explore additional options on Booking.
In just three days, you can leisurely explore the attractions of Maceió. If you have five to seven days, you can also fit in trips to nearby places like Maragogi, São Miguel dos Milagres, and Gunga beach.
