Things To Do
in Alhandra
Alhandra is a small Atlantic coastal town in Paraíba, Brazil, located along the Paraíba River estuary near João Pessoa. The town combines a working fishing community with mangrove-backed landscapes and a quiet, welcoming pace of life. Its shoreline, waterfront markets, and nearby natural areas offer accessible nature and culture for visitors.
With easy access from João Pessoa, Alhandra makes a relaxed base for exploring the coast and estuary.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the quaint streets of Alhandra's historic center, where you can admire colonial architecture. Stop by the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, a beautiful church that showcases the local culture and history. Enjoy a fresh Brazilian coffee from a nearby café while soaking in the morning atmosphere.
In the afternoon, explore the local artisan shops and boutiques where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the scenic views of the Paraíba River and the lush greenery surrounding the town. For lunch, savor some traditional dishes at a local restaurant, featuring fresh seafood and regional flavors.
As the sun sets, head to a local bar to taste some of the region's famous cachaça, a sugarcane spirit. Enjoy live music performances that showcase the vibrant culture of Alhandra, immersing yourself in the local nightlife. Finish your evening with a walk along the river, watching the stars twinkle above as you reflect on your day.
Spend your morning at Praia de Barra de Gramame, a stunning beach known for its warm waters and soft sands. Engage in some beach volleyball with locals or rent a paddleboard for a fun morning on the water. Relax under an umbrella with a refreshing coconut water as you take in the coastal scenery.
After a delicious beachfront lunch, dive into exciting water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides. The friendly instructors will ensure you have a blast while exploring the coastline. Don't forget to take a moment to relax on the beach, basking in the sun with the soothing sounds of the waves in the background.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a beachside barbecue featuring freshly grilled fish and meats. Join fellow travelers and locals for an evening bonfire, sharing stories and laughter as the night unfolds. The cool ocean breeze and the sound of the waves create the perfect backdrop for a memorable night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🧃Mid-range meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $4-8 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm coastal town with direct access to mangroves and estuary
- Friendly, welcoming locals and affordable prices
- Nice base for day trips to Joao Pessoa and beaches
- Strong seafood cuisine and fresh produce
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-tour group options
- Smaller infrastructure and less English widely spoken
- Longer travel time to larger attractions from Alhandra
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
- "Eu gostaria de…" - I would like…
- "Pode indicar o banheiro?" - Can you point to the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Alhandra
Visit one of these nice places.
Wooden boardwalk through the Paraíba River mangroves, perfect for sunrise light and birdwatching.
Historic bridge over the estuary with silhouettes against the water and boats.
Coastal viewpoint offering sea horizons and sunset portraits nearby beaches.
Food in Alhandra
Alhandra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salt-cured beef served with cassava (macaxeira) kept popular across the Northeast, often accompanied by onions and peppers.
Must-Try!
A seafood stew cooked in coconut milk, peppers, and dendê oil in lighter coastal versions.
Grilled queijo coalho skewers, a staple snack at markets and beachside stalls.
Flexible tapioca crepes stuffed with cheese, coconut, or fruit—perfect street food snack.
Steamed cornmeal dish with toppings like eggs, cheese, or olives; common in rural eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small town market with fresh seafood, produce, and regional snacks; best early in the morning.
Riverfront stalls offering tapioca, fried fish, coconut treats, and refreshing açaí or sugarcane juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake or brief kiss on the cheek among friends; say bom dia/boa tarde/boa noite.
Ask before photographing people, especially in fishing communities or religious sites; dress modestly in churches.
Punctuality is flexible; conversation tends to be warm—engage with small talk and smiles.
Safety
Tipping in Alhandra
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in larger establishments if service isn’t included.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted in towns; cash preferred at markets; small vendors may take cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent showers; expect sunny mornings and refreshing sea breezes; good beach conditions.
Increased rainfall and humidity; lush landscape, quieter streets; ideal for birding and estuary tours.
Milder temperatures, cool nights, and occasional rain; comfortable for exploring walking trails.
Warm days with moderate humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and street markets.
Alhandra at Night
Hiking in Alhandra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trail along mangroves and coastline with birdwatching opportunities.
Short, scenic hikes through tropical coastal forest with viewpoints and beaches.
Airports
How to reach Alhandra by plane.
Also known as Presidente Castro Pinto International; about 30-60 km from Alhandra; taxis or shuttle services connect you to the town.
Major airport about 180-210 km away; alternative for longer multi-city trips; reachable by bus or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant part of the local economy and culture.
Residents who travel to João Pessoa for work or services.
A calm, family-friendly community with steady local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region loves football; casual matches and local leagues are common.
Popular on local beaches with quick games and community tournaments.
Traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art practiced in cultural centers and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alhandra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for rice, beans, cassava, and cheese-based dishes; order 'sem carne' and ask for veggie options.