Are you searching for activities to do in Maceió? You’ve come to the right place! Here, you will find a comprehensive list of attractions in the city and its surroundings. Take a look!
The comprehensive guide to activities in Maceió includes urban beaches, pristine deserts unique to the northeast, natural pools, boat excursions, historic districts, and more. To ensure you don’t miss any of these tourist attractions, we’ve compiled a post with helpful tips on all the must-see places in the city.
To gain a better understanding of the area, it is beneficial to note that Maceió serves as the capital of Alagoas and is centrally located among other well-known cities in the state. Therefore, it is recommended to set aside a day to explore the city itself and allocate additional time to visit neighboring locations like Maragogi, São Miguel dos Milagres, Gunga Beach, and French Beach, all of which are conveniently situated within a one to three-hour drive.
I spent a week in an Alagoan city and booked tour packages through CVC, who collaborated with WS Tur Receptivo for most of the excursions in the area. It was very convenient as everything was already included, such as hotel transfers, beach club day passes, and even cold water for the trips. It was a worthwhile experience!
Now, keep reading to stay informed about all the activities in Maceió and the surrounding area! 🎵
In this article, you will find:
- Key attractions in Maceió and surrounding areas.
- Points of interest near Maceió
- Top beaches in Maceió
- Ways to spend time in Maceió other than visiting the beaches
- Activities in Maceió that won’t cost you anything
- Activities for children in Maceió
- Activities to enjoy in Maceió
- Activities to experience 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 created a collection of the city’s most impressive sights, which include everything from beaches to historic districts and are appealing to a diverse range of visitors, spanning from children to adults.
Ponta Verde Beach
Paraphrased text: Spending a day or more at the central beaches of Maceió is highly recommended. Ponta Verde is the most centrally located beach with a calm, clear sea. Along its shoreline, there are various landmarks for photo opportunities, such as the Giant Chair, and during low tide, you can explore natural pools and the well-known Moses’ Path leading to the Ponta Verde Lighthouse. This beach caters to a diverse range of visitors.
I was amazed by how stunning and well-equipped an urban beach can be! Along with a central infrastructure, including numerous restaurants in Maceió, kiosks, and beach clubs, it also boasts crystal-clear, warm waters resembling natural pools. This feature is unique to Maceió. Additionally, the beach is home to Marco dos Corais and two nearby beaches, which we will provide more information about shortly.
Title: Coral Emblem
The Coral Landmark is a square area in the ocean that is open to the public of all ages for free. Visitors can stroll along a pathway above the sea to appreciate the scenic views and coral formations. It also serves as a wonderful spot for capturing stunning photographs.
When the tide is low, the sea around the catwalk becomes a natural pool. You can step off the catwalk and enjoy a refreshing swim while observing colorful fish among the coral reefs up close. Signs also indicate that Maceió is one of the few capital cities in the world with an urban waterfront bordered by coral reefs. It’s truly a unique privilege, isn’t it?
Pajuçara Beach Description
Pajuçara Beach is located close to Ponta Verde in the southern part and serves as the departure point for rafts going to the natural pools of Pajuçara. This area also features several beach service stalls where you can rent chairs and parasols for an average price of R$ 20. Additionally, there are restaurants, numerous hotels in Maceió, and the well-known Craft Pavilion in the vicinity.
Craft Pavilion
chsyys/UnPlash
The Handicraft Pavilion is a must-visit for those interested in purchasing local souvenirs and traditional items. The pavilion offers a wide range of products such as clothing, accessories, home decor, keychains, handmade items like shells, and handbags. It is open every day until 10:00 pm. For further details, please check the website.
I took a brief stroll and purchased a handmade seashell with a unique and lively label from the northeastern region. I also bought several keychains as gifts for my family and a traditional bottle of butter to enjoy with cassava.
Across the street, there is also the Free Craft Fair and, more recently, the Arts Market 31 (located near the port), which are both worth checking out.
Jatiúca Beach Description
The Jatiuca beach is located to the north of Ponta Verde and is part of the central area of the capital. In Maceio, there are numerous restaurants, beach kiosks, and hotels in this area. It is important to mention that as you head further north, the sea becomes more turbulent and there are fewer facilities for tourists. However, it is still recommended to include this beach on your list of things to do in Maceio.
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 recommended. Ipioca beach is known for its popular beach clubs like Hibiscus and Rios Beach Club Guard, providing excellent options for those seeking more amenities.
The Sereia beach features a coral reef and natural pools during low tide. The sea at this location is lively, and in the center stands a mermaid sculpture representing Iemanjá, the patron saint of fishermen.
Pontal da Barra and Munda Lagoon
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 skilled lacework of the local artisans called rendeiras, who create the delicate filé embroidery, recognized as an important cultural heritage of Alagoas. You may encounter these artisans crafting lace on the streets, and it is recommended to purchase some of their pieces as souvenirs.
The ambiance at Pontal da Barra is peaceful and reminiscent of a historical town, where the Mundaú lagoon merges with the ocean. Visitors can also opt for boat tours to better appreciate the scenery, including the stunning sunset views.
Maceió’s Historic Center is a place of significant historical value.
Alternative way to explore Maceió includes visiting its historical landmarks. While the city lacks a designated historic district, there are several attractions that can be visited in a single day. One such example is Mirante São Gonçalo, situated in Praça Rosalvo Ribeiro across from São Gonçalo Church. Although the site is modest, it offers picturesque photo opportunities and even hosts a small craft market.
Within close proximity, there is the Metropolitan Cathedral, followed by the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Blacks and the Floriano Peixoto Palace Museum, located directly across from Martyrdom Square, just over a kilometer away.
Another popular tourist attraction in Maceió is the Théo Brandão Museum of Anthropology and Folklore, which showcases a collection of the folklorist Théo Brandão in a grand 19th-century palace. Regrettably, it is currently closed with no set date for reopening, but it is advisable to follow the museum’s Instagram for any updates.
Area of Jaraguá’s vicinity
The Jaraguá neighborhood in Maceió can be seen as a historical district due to its well-maintained buildings, ancient mansions, museums, and cobblestone streets, which give it a unique appeal. Scholars believe that this area was originally a fishing village that developed separately from the main village of Maceió.
The city boasts unique exhibits such as original French posts and the third original model of the Statue of Liberty. Other must-see attractions include the Alagoana Commercial Association, Capelinha do Jaraguá, Museum of Image and Sound (MISA), Memorial to the Republic, Museum of Technology, Casa do Patrimônio, Fundação Teotônio Vilela, and Porto. Be sure to capture a photo in the classic Maceió frame at Praça Dois Leões.
Pajuçara’s natural pools
Alagoas boasts numerous natural pools, primarily located in the northern region known as the Coral Coast. While only the Pajuçara natural pools can be found in Maceió, there are other popular and stunning natural pools in the surrounding areas, including Maragogi, São Miguel dos Milagres, and Paripueira.
To access the natural pool of Pajuçara, you can book a ride on a raft, speedboat, or catamaran. I personally took this tour through CVC and WS Tur Receptivo, but boats are also available for hire directly on the beach. Booking in advance eliminates the need for last-minute negotiations.
One key point to note is that natural pools are only visible during low tide when the tide gauge reaches 0.0 to 0.5, or during full moon or new moon phases. At the lowest sea levels, coral reefs create elevated pools with clear water, allowing for a delightful experience. You can swim with the water at waist height and observe fish up close.
Places of interest near Maceió
The nearby cities around Maceió are located within a one to three-hour drive from the capital. It is worth considering spending a few days of your trip exploring these neighboring cities. Some people may opt to stay in Maceió and take day trips to other destinations, while others may choose to stay in a different city to avoid traffic and save time. Ultimately, the decision is up to each individual.
I decided to stay at a hotel in Maceió for exploring the city and nearby areas within a 40-minute drive, while also staying at hotels in Maragogi and on the French beach for more convenient access to those destinations. I booked my tours through WS Tur Receptive as they were part of my CVC package.
Maragogi – Activities to experience in Maragogi
Maragogi is a popular destination near Maceió known for its natural pools, Antunes beach, the Moses Way, and buggy rides. It is where I realized why it is called the “Brazilian Caribbean,” as the sea boasts a truly exceptional crystal-clear color.
The town is quite tiny, featuring narrow streets and not many attractions. Its main highlights are the sea and nature, making activities such as enjoying the beach, going on buggy rides, or taking boat trips to natural pools popular among tourists. Antunes Beach is renowned, and Barra Grande Beach is where you can find the Way of Moses, a sandbank that emerges during low tide – be sure to check the tide schedule.
Maragogi offers various boat tours that explore the beaches and provide opportunities for taking unique photos in handmade settings, often using coconut and wooden elements. Local boatmen also offer trips to the natural pools where visitors can take pictures with the vibrant fish. Some of the most popular pools include Galés, Taocas, and Barra Grande.
View our posts categorized under the label Maragogi.
- Hotels in Maragogi
- Activities in Maragogi
- Accommodations in Maragogi.
- Accommodations available in Maragogi.
- A romantic getaway in Maragogi for newlyweds.
- Accommodation options in Maragogi
- Exclusive Hotel Brisa in Maragogi
Gunga Beach (Script)
Another popular destination for travelers is Gunga beach, situated along Route, approximately a 40-minute drive from Maceió. This sandy spot is unique because it is where the sea merges with the Lagoa do Screenplay, providing swimmers with both fresh and saltwater options. The scenery is stunning, with expansive ocean views and lush vegetation surrounding the river.
One benefit of this beach is its impressive facilities. It features numerous spacious beachside kiosks, a craft fair selling traditional clothing and souvenirs, and a variety of activities like buggy rides along the cliffs, banana boat rides, paramotoring, and even options for flying boats and boat trips to view the oyster farms. However, it’s advisable to plan ahead as the area tends to be busy and charges for parking.
French Beach (Marechal Deodoro) – Paraphrased: French Beach located in Marechal Deodoro
Marshal Deodoro is where you can find the popular French beach, a well-known destination for tourists. This beach is often crowded, especially on weekends, and offers both a tranquil side of the sea protected by a natural barrier and a more wavy area popular among surfers. Visitors can also enjoy natural pools and admire the beautiful color of the sea.
The city is very charming and rich in history, offering a variety of attractions to explore beyond the beach. Visitors can enjoy churches, museums, and restaurants serving diverse cuisine, including regional specialties like cocadas. Additionally, Marechal Deodoro da Fonseca, the first president of Brazil, was born here, and his former home is now a free museum in the city.
Dream Green Beach (Paripueira)
The Green Dream beach is a tranquil oasis outside the city, considered a must-see attraction in Maceió. Unlike the bustling central beaches, this secluded stretch of sand is less crowded, allowing visitors to relax in peace.
The beach area is well-maintained with lush coconut trees creating a stunning natural backdrop. Staying at a beach club is recommended for a comfortable experience, with Anauê being a great option offering live music, dining, pool, clean facilities, children’s area, kiosks, and guided tours. I stayed there and thoroughly enjoyed it!
Text: Carro Quebrado Beach (Barra de Santo Antônio)
Carro Quebrado Beach is nearly empty, with minimal facilities and a clear sea enclosed by vibrant cliffs. Visitors can enjoy a stunning viewpoint and some guides offer the opportunity to create paintings using clay sourced from the cliffs, which were once used by the Caetés Indians and provide a range of 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 is more challenging, so I recommend using a buggy or a 4×4 vehicle. I personally opted for a jipão ride from Green Dream and it was a smooth experience.
I encountered a lost couple traveling by car, so it is advisable to explore with individuals familiar with the area. The tour was organized by WS Tur Receptive, and the guide and driver were locals who were well-versed in the region, making the experience 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 vibrant shade of blue that blends seamlessly with the sky. The town has a charming and laid-back atmosphere, with quaint streets and friendly locals.
Milagres is located 100 kilometers from the capital, where visitors can enjoy buggy tours with stops at various attractions and beaches in the area. Additionally, guests have the option to relax at beach clubs like Santo Milagres. This was personally one of my favorite tours to experience.
Mouth of the San Francisco River
The tour of Foz do Rio San Francisco was the most thrilling experience I had, and I highly suggest it! It departs from a town called Piaçabuçu, which is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Maceió (136 km away). A boat then heads towards the point where the Old Chico River meets the ocean, situated at the border of Alagoas and Sergipe.
In order to reach the destination, it is essential to book a tour through a travel agency. There are choices available such as buggy rides combined with a boat trip or transfers followed by a boat ride. In my case, I booked through WS Tur Receptivo and CVC, and a van picked me up from the hotel to transport me to a riverside eatery. From there, we boarded a catamaran to reach our final destination.
The landscape throughout the tour is truly otherworldly. The lush vegetation along the river is plentiful, and once you reach the mouth where the mobile dunes are located, you are captivated by the stunning natural beauty. It’s no surprise that this location was featured in the film “God is Brazilian” with Antônio Fagundes. It is highly recommended to add this tour to 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 mild temperatures. During low tide, they resemble natural pools, particularly Ponta Verde where a pathway to the lighthouse emerges.
Next to the city, there are additional stunning beaches that should be included in 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 have clear blue waters and fewer beachfront establishments, providing a peaceful atmosphere and natural pools.
Other beach alternatives near Maceió include Carro Quebrado Beach, which is less crowded, and Sonho Verde Beach, which is also quiet but offers more beach club choices.
Take note of or print out 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, also known as Marechal Deodoro, is the name of the location.
- Antunes Beach in Maragogi
- Barra Grande Beach in Maragogi
- The beach of São Miguel dos Milagres
- Touch Beach in São Miguel dos Milagres
Alternative activities in Maceió apart from visiting the beaches.
How about taking a break from the beach during your trip to Maceió and exploring other activities the city has to offer? You can browse through the craft fair for souvenirs, admire the work of local lace makers and fishermen in Pontal da Barra, savor regional cuisine at Maceió’s restaurants, visit museums, and much more. Check out the following suggestions for things to do beyond the beaches.
- Text: Pavilion showcasing handicrafts
- Pontal da Barra and Munda Lagoon
- Overview of São Gonçalo Lookout
- Metropolitan Cathedral – Rewrite the text to convey the same meaning.
- The Black Our Lady of the Rosary Church
- Museum of the Floriano Peixoto Palace
- Jaraguá district’s surroundings
Activities to enjoy in Maceió at no cost
You can freely enjoy the beaches without the need for beach chairs and umbrellas. The Coral Reefs Trail, as well as the historic churches in the city, are also free of charge. Another free tourist attraction in Maceió is the Municipal Park, where you can observe yellow-talk alligators and other animals. Check out the list below for free activities in the city:
- Maceió Municipal Park is a public park located in the city of Maceió.
- Paraphrase: Observation deck named São Gonçalo
- Metropolitan Cathedral – A cathedral located in a metropolitan area.
- The Black Our Lady of the Rosary Church
- Maceió’s coastline features stunning beaches.
- Title: Coral Symbol
- Text: Church dedicated to Jesus and the Martyrs
- Museum of the Floriano Peixoto Palace
Activities for children in Maceió
Most of the attractions in Maceió are child-friendly, such as the calm central beaches where kids can safely play in the gentle waves. Other family-friendly activities include having a picnic in the Municipal Park, shopping at Maceió Shopping, biking along the waterfront, and taking 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 Signature
- Maceió Shopping Center
- Maceió Convention Center can be rephrased as the Convention Center in Maceió.
- TruckZone – a zone for trucks
- Floriano Peixoto Palace Museum can be rephrased as “Museum of the Floriano Peixoto Palace.”
Activities to do in Maceió
Finding a quality restaurant in Maceió is a great idea for the evening, especially if it features live music. Another suggestion is to enjoy a night tour on a trimaran boat offered by Lopana Bar de Praia – it provides a unique experience. You can also explore attractions at the Maceió Convention Center, visit nightclubs, or take a leisurely stroll along the city’s waterfront.
- Eating establishments in Maceió
- Maceió Shopping – a shopping center in Maceió
- Maceió Convention Center can be rephrased as Maceió’s Convention Center.
- Evening Trimaran Excursion (Lopana Beach Bar)
- The Joy Club text
- Phrase: Beautiful Maceió
- Stroll along the outskirts of Maceió.
Activities in Maceió to engage in
The rain won’t stop you from exploring Maceió, as there are plenty of attractions to visit even when the weather isn’t ideal for the beach. Check out our recommendations below:
- Maceió Shopping – a shopping center in Maceió
- Craft Pavilion
- Dining establishments in Maceió
- Maceió Convention Center can be rephrased as the Convention Center in Maceió.
- Museum of the Floriano Peixoto Palace
- Metropolitan Cathedral – Paraphrase the text.
- Text: The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black
Eating establishments in Maceió
Sunshine, shrimp whip, tapiocas, cuscuz, seafood moqueca, and cocada are some of the authentic dishes from the area. Bodega do Sertão is known for its regional cuisine and is a must-visit to truly experience the flavors of the Northeast.
However, besides local dishes, the city of Maceió in Alagoas also provides a diverse culinary experience through its numerous restaurants. Check out some of the most popular ones below:
- Sertão’s Cellar (Jatiúca)
- Janga Raia Restaurant (Ponta Verde)
- TruckZone (Jaunch) – TruckZone, also known as Jaunch
- Lopana beach bar and restaurant is located in Ponta Verde.
Accommodations in Maceió
Maceió offers great accommodation options, particularly if you plan to explore nearby cities. The most recommended areas to stay in are Pajuçara, Ponta Verde, and Jaitiúca, as they are centrally located beaches with convenient amenities nearby.
You can also opt to stay in nearby cities. Consider selecting accommodations in other places you plan to visit for an extended period. This approach can reduce travel fatigue, for instance, by staying in hotels in Maragogi, guesthouses in São Miguel dos Milagres, or beachfront inns in Patacho.
Hotels in Maceió
If you’d rather stay at a hotel in Maceió, we have listed the most appropriate ones for you to make a reservation below. If you’re still undecided, you may also want to explore our articles on guesthouses and resorts in Maceió.
- Hotel Brisa Suites located in Pajuçara Beach offers daily rates starting from R$ 519, with a rating of 8.8.
- Ritz Lagoa da Anta Hotel & SPA (Cruz das Almas Beach) offers daily rates starting at R$ 702, with a rating of 8.2.
- Best Western Premier located on Pajuçara Beach offers rooms starting at R$ 558 per day, with a rating of 9.2.
- Hotel Brisa Praia located at Pajuçara Beach offers a daily rate starting at R$ 474, with a rating of 8.7.
Discover additional hotels in Maceió to guarantee an ideal stay.
View other articles categorized under lodging in the region of Alagoas.
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- Accommodations available at Antunes Beach hostels.
- Accommodations in São Miguel dos Milagres
- Accommodations in Barra de São Miguel
- Accommodations available in Praia do Patacho.
- Accommodations available in Maceió.
- Accommodation options in Alagoas.
- Accommodation options in Maragogi
- Accommodations in Maragogi accommodations
- Maragogi’s accommodations in the form of resorts.
- Accommodations available in Maragogi’s hostels
- Paraphrase: French-style Hotel Ponta Verde
- Ritz Pond of the Anta can be rephrased as “The Anta’s Ritz Pond.”
- Hotel exclusivo Brisa em Maragogi
- Accommodations in Japaratinga’s hostels
View additional recommendations for Maceió.
The tips don’t end here! We provide a list of detailed posts below to help you plan your trip.
- Barra de São Miguel – A place called Barra de São Miguel
- Things to do in Barra de São Miguel
- Accommodations in Barra de São Miguel
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- The text is very brief, so it is difficult to paraphrase without more context. Could you please provide more information or clarify what you would like me to paraphrase?
- Accommodation options in Alagoas for travelers on a budget
- Alagoas’ resorts.
- Accommodations in Maceió for budget travelers.
- Hotels in Maceió
- Activities to engage in while in Maceió
- Eating establishments in Maceió
- Top beaches in Maceió
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- Beach in France
- Activities for Carnival Celebration
Commonly Asked Questions
Maceio and the whole state of Alagoas have a consistently warm climate throughout the year, making it a suitable destination at any time. It is important to consider that the summer months are the peak season, resulting in higher tourist numbers. Conversely, during the winter, there are occasional brief rainy spells, leading to fewer visitors and more opportunities to find discounted prices on accommodations and airfare.
The beaches and natural pools are the iconic attractions 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.
Traveling by boat to the natural pools is an essential experience, allowing you to observe vibrant fish up close and swim in shallow, crystal-clear waters in the open sea.
Explore Maceió Municipal Park, stroll through Coral Landmark, dine at TruckZone, and safely enjoy the natural pools with young children.
If it rains, there are many things to do in Maceió, including visiting Maceió Shopping, the Floriano Peixoto Palace Museum, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Blacks, the Handicraft Pavilion, and trying out the restaurants in Maceió.
We strongly suggest considering the travel packages offered by CVC and WS Tur Receptive. These companies collaborate with various tourism businesses in the area, allowing them to provide competitive pricing.
Here are a few no-cost attractions in Maceió: Maceió Municipal Park, São Gonçalo Lookout, Corais Marker, and Floriano Peixoto Palace Museum.
The top restaurants in Maceió include Sertão Bodega, Grazie Pizza Napoletana, and Tapioca Maria Bonita. In addition, there are other excellent dining options on the outskirts of the city, such as Anauê Sonho Verde, Maré Beach Maragogi, Santo Milagres Beach Club, and Paju Praia.
The accommodations we recommend in Maceió are Ritz Lagoa da Anta, Maragogi Brisa Exclusive Hotel, and Hotel Ponta Verde French. For additional choices, visit Booking.
You can leisurely explore the attractions of Maceió in three days. For a more extensive trip, consider adding tours to Maragogi, São Miguel dos Milagres, and Gunga beach within five to seven days.
