Things To Do
in Aracati
Aracati is a coastal city in Ceará known for its long sandy beaches and warm hospitality. It serves as a gateway to the famed Canoa Quebrada with its dramatic cliffs and colorful fishing boats. The town blends traditional fishing culture, markets, and colonial architecture along a lively waterfront.
With a tropical climate and relaxed pace, Aracati invites visitors to beach days, cultural exploration, and easy day trips along Ceará’s coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Aracati and settle into your accommodations. Take some time to unwind and soak in the local surroundings, perhaps with a leisurely breakfast at a coastal café. Prepare for your first exploration of this charming town by enjoying the warm, salty breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.
Stroll through the historic center of Aracati, visiting local markets and admiring colonial architecture. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, indulging in traditional Cearan dishes. Don’t forget to sample the refreshing coconut water as you wander around.
As the sun sets, head to a beachfront bar to enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Engage with locals and fellow travelers while sipping on caipirinhas and listening to live music. The relaxed atmosphere will set the tone for a delightful stay.
After breakfast, take a short trip to Canoa Quebrada, famous for its stunning cliffs and clear waters. Enjoy a thrilling buggy ride across the dunes, taking in the breathtaking views of the coastline. Feel the excitement as you navigate through this picturesque landscape.
Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beautiful beach or trying out watersports such as kitesurfing or paddleboarding. Savor lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, enjoying fresh seafood with a view. Take some time to sunbathe or explore nearby artisanal shops.
As night falls, enjoy a beachfront dinner, where you can feast on grilled fish while listening to the sound of the waves. Witness the vibrant sunset as the sky transforms into shades of orange and pink. Conclude your day by joining in on a lively beach party or cultural event.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-8 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel per night | $20-40 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and sunsets
- Warm, friendly locals and good-value meals
- Relaxed vibe and easy access to Canoa Quebrada
- Strong seafood cuisine and cultural experiences
- Limited big-city nightlife and slower pace
- Public transport outside town centers can be sparse
- English not widely spoken in rural areas
- Some tourist areas can feel quiet in off-peak months
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você pode recomendar um lugar?" - Could you recommend a place?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu não falo bem português" - I don't speak Portuguese well
Places to Visit in Aracati
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic sea cliffs and colorful boats with panoramic ocean views, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
White sand dunes behind the beach for wide-angle landscape shots and playful dune climbs.
Vibrant market interiors with locals, baskets, textiles, and bright produce.
Historic church with colonial architectural details and soft interior light.
Cliffside viewpoints offering sweeping sea panoramas and colorful sunsets.
Food in Aracati
Aracati Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salt-cured beef served with boiled cassava, a regional staple often enjoyed with onions and peppers.
Must-Try!
Coastal fish stew with coconut milk, peppers, and cilantro, typically served with rice and pirão.
Fish or shrimp simmered in coconut oil with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro; served with rice.
A comforting mix of rice and beans cooked with cheese, a signature dish across Ceará.
Crisp tapioca crepes filled with cheese, coconut, or sweet fillings; widely enjoyed as a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market with fish stalls, fresh produce, and local snacks.
Beachfront stalls offering grilled fish, tapioca, and refreshing juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bom dia' or 'Boa tarde' and a friendly handshake or cheek kiss among friends.
Ask before taking photos of people; dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in residential areas.
Be polite and patient; minimal small talk with strangers unless invited to chat.
Safety
Tipping in Aracati
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in restaurants if service isn’t included. Rounding up taxi fares is common.
Cash (BRL) is widely accepted; cards are common in towns; PIX is increasingly used for transfers and payments; some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February is hot and sunny with sea breezes; beaches are lively and water looks inviting. Pack sun protection, light clothing, and plenty of water.
March to May brings brief tropical showers and lush landscapes; plan for possible travel delays and carry a light rain jacket.
June to November tends to be drier with pleasant evenings and reliable beach conditions; humidity remains high but outdoor activities are comfortable.
Aracati at Night
Hiking in Aracati
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Sunset dune walk along the Canoa Quebrada area with expansive sands and sea views.
Coastal trail along cliffs and beaches with viewpoints.
A gentle hiking circuit around a coastal lagoon area, suitable for birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Aracati by plane.
Main international gateway to Ceará; approximately 170 km from Aracati; frequent flights from major Brazilian cities and some international connections.
Regional airport serving Jericoacoara and nearby beaches; significantly farther from Aracati and typically accessed via Fortaleza.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Fishing and maritime livelihoods with a strong sense of regional identity.
Agricultural communities with farming traditions and slower-paced life.
People drawn to beaches like Canoa Quebrada and Aracati’s cultural offerings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal winds and waves make beaches like Canoa Quebrada popular with surfers.
Common on sunny days along the shoreline.
Traditional fisheries and boat-based activities are integral to local life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aracati.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many staples are plant-based (rice, beans, cassava, tapioca). Look for dishes labeled sem carne or request vegetables and beans; seafood-free options are common in town.