Things To Do
in Cabedelo
Cabedelo is a small coastal municipality in the state of Paraíba, located at the mouth of the Paraíba River and known for its sheltered beaches and historic fortifications. The town is a gateway to natural attractions like the sandbank of Areia Vermelha and offers close access to João Pessoa and Ponta do Seixas, the easternmost point of the Americas. Cabedelo blends fishing-village charm, seaside leisure activities (surfing, kite-surfing, boat trips) and a compact commercial center with fresh seafood.
Its relaxed pace and coastal scenery make it popular for short beach stays and nature outings rather than big-city nightlife or heavy tourism infrastructure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly baked pão de queijo with coffee. Afterward, stroll through the cobblestone streets of Cabedelo's historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Visit the Igreja do Santo Antônio, a beautiful church that offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Have lunch at a traditional restaurant, savoring local dishes such as feijoada or moqueca. Continue your exploration by visiting the Museu de Arte Sacra, where you can appreciate religious art and artifacts from the region. Spend some time at the nearby Praça da Paz, soaking in the atmosphere and watching locals go about their day.
As the sun sets, head to a waterfront bar to enjoy a refreshing caipirinha while listening to live Brazilian music. Dine at a seafood restaurant, indulging in the catch of the day with a side of freshly made farofa. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoying the cool ocean breeze and the sound of waves.
Begin your day at Praia do Jacaré, known for its stunning views and calm waters, perfect for a morning swim. After a refreshing dip, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline and its hidden coves. Enjoy the sun and sand as you relax on the beach, taking in the beautiful scenery around you.
Grab lunch at a beachside kiosk, where you can try local snacks like shrimp paste and fried fish. Afterward, join a snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life in the warm waters off Cabedelo's coast. Experience the thrill of water sports such as jet skiing or banana boat rides, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
As the day winds down, find a spot on the beach to witness the mesmerizing sunset over the ocean. Treat yourself to a seafood feast at a local restaurant, sampling the freshest catch and enjoying the flavors of the sea. Conclude your day with a stroll along the beach, basking in the peaceful ambiance as the stars start to twinkle above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride (within town) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, low-key beaches and unique sandbank (Areia Vermelha) for day trips
- Close proximity to João Pessoa and Ponta do Seixas for expanded sightseeing
- Fresh seafood and authentic northeastern culinary experiences
- Good spot for water sports (surfing, kitesurfing, SUP) and nature tours
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale amenities compared with larger cities
- Public transport can be infrequent in some neighborhoods—taxis often needed
- Seasonal rains (mid-year) can disrupt outdoor plans
- Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in busy tourist areas—basic precautions required
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado (male) / Obrigada (female)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "A conta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "Onde fica o forte / a praia?" - Where is the fort / the beach?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Cabedelo
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fort with strong coastal views, interesting colonial architecture and excellent sunrise/sunset compositions over the river mouth.
Exposed at low tide, this sandbank creates turquoise tidal pools—great for wide-angle seascapes and aerial drone shots (check local rules).
Long beaches with dunes, fishermen and colorful beach stalls—good for lifestyle and surf photography, especially at golden hour.
Boat-access viewpoints where river, sea and local fishing activity meet—rich for candid coastal life scenes and reflections.
Vibrant market scenes with fresh produce, fish and local vendors—ideal for documentary-style images of daily life.
Food in Cabedelo
Cabedelo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local fish stew with coconut milk, vegetables and regional seasonings; commonly served at seaside restaurants and simple eateries.
Must-Try!
Salt-dried beef served with boiled or fried cassava—comfort food widely available at lunchtime and traditional restaurants.
Cassava flour pancakes filled with cheese, coconut, seafood or sweet fillings; a very common street-food breakfast or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market where fish, produce and snacks are sold; a great place to try freshly fried fish, regional sweets and chat with vendors.
Small street stalls and beach barracas along Camboinha and Poço offering grilled seafood, tapioca, pastéis and cold drinks—ideal for casual, inexpensive meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshakes are common in formal settings; friends and acquaintances often exchange one or two cheek kisses. Use 'bom dia' (good morning) and 'obrigado/obrigada' (thank you).
Beachwear is normal on the sand but cover up when leaving the beach to enter shops or restaurants; respect local modesty in residential areas.
Brazilians are warm and conversational—small talk is common. Avoid offensive remarks about local culture; asking permission before photographing people is polite.
Schedules can be flexible; social events often start later than advertised, but transport and tours usually run on timetable—confirm times in advance.
Safety
Tipping in Cabedelo
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants often add a 10% service charge; if not included, leaving around 10% is common for good service. Small tips (a few reais) for porters, taxi drivers for helpful service, and beach attendants are appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at restaurants and larger shops, but many small beach stalls and markets prefer cash (Brazilian reais). ATMs are available but carry some cash for markets, taxis and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and relatively dry with plenty of beach days; water temperatures are warm—best for swimming and boat trips, but expect stronger sun and higher humidity.
Transition season with increasing chance of occasional showers later in the period; still warm and good for outdoor activities before the main rains.
Slightly cooler and rainier—this is the wetter season in Paraíba with more cloud cover and occasional squalls; outdoor plans can be disrupted but beaches are quieter.
Generally dry and pleasant with lower humidity—excellent for sightseeing, photography and water activities as conditions stabilize.
Cabedelo at Night
Hiking in Cabedelo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short coastal trails through restinga vegetation and dunes near the beaches; good for birdwatching and observing coastal flora.
Guided walks in mangrove areas around the Paraíba River mouth—learn about tidal ecosystems and spot shorebirds and crabs.
Short scenic paths and viewpoints near the easternmost point—combine hiking with coastal photography and lighthouse visits.
Airports
How to reach Cabedelo by plane.
Primary airport serving João Pessoa, about 15–25 km from Cabedelo depending on route; 30–45 minute drive by taxi or shuttle. The most convenient entry point for Cabedelo.
Major regional airport in Recife, roughly 100–130 km south of Cabedelo (about 2–3 hours by car or bus). An alternative for international connections or multi-destination trips in the Northeast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding families and small-scale fishermen whose livelihoods are tied to the estuary and coastal waters.
A culturally significant portion of the population with strong ties to regional traditions, music and cuisine.
Workers who commute between Cabedelo and João Pessoa and merchants working in the town's markets and tourism services.
Visitors drawn to beaches and nature—for many stays are short and tied to weekend trips or João Pessoa itineraries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Brazil—local pickup games and organized matches are common; catching a local match offers a slice of community life.
Coastal breaks attract surfers year-round; surf culture is present around Camboinha and Poço beaches.
Informal games are played along the sand, especially on weekends and during late afternoons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cabedelo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians will find tapioca, salads, rice & beans, and vegetable stews at markets and cafés, but pure vegetarian restaurants are rare—ask about fish broth in stews and request meat-free preparations.
Vegan options exist but are limited; street tapioca can be vegan if ordered without cheese, and fresh fruit and juices are widely available—carry snacks if you have strict needs.
Cassava-based foods (tapioca, manioc flour preparations) are naturally gluten-free; always confirm with vendors about cross-contamination for fried items.