Things To Do
in Extremoz
Extremoz is a small coastal municipality in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, located just west of Natal. The town is known for gateways to the Genipabu wind-swept dunes, lagoons, and calm rural landscapes. It offers a slower pace with nearby beaches and mangroves that are perfect for day trips.
The area blends traditional Northeastern culture with easy access to Natal's amenities and attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming Praça da Justiça, where you'll admire the architecture of the colonial-era buildings. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional Brazilian pão de queijo alongside a strong cup of coffee. As you stroll through the streets, take in the vibrant murals that reflect the rich culture and history of Extremoz.
After lunch, head to the Museu de Cultura Popular, where you can immerse yourself in the local folklore and arts. The museum offers a unique perspective on the region's traditions, showcasing various artifacts and exhibits. Spend your afternoon exploring the quaint shops surrounding the center, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs to remember your trip.
As night falls, indulge in a traditional Brazilian dinner at a local grill, where you can enjoy mouth-watering meats and regional specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront to experience the breathtaking sunset over the ocean. Cap off your night with a visit to a nearby bar for live music, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day at Ponta Negra Beach, where the golden sands beckon you for a fun-filled morning. Rent a surfboard or join a stand-up paddleboarding class to catch some waves and soak up the sun. The beach is perfect for a refreshing swim in the warm waters of the Atlantic, giving you an energizing start to your day.
After some beach time, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes while listening to the sound of the waves. Post-lunch, you can engage in thrilling activities like jet skiing or parasailing, offering an exhilarating view of the coastline from above. Spend your afternoon relaxing under a beach umbrella or taking a stroll along the shore, collecting seashells.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness one of the most stunning sunsets you'll ever see. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beach bar, where you can try local drinks like caipirinhas while enjoying the sound of the ocean. End your evening with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories with fellow travelers and creating unforgettable memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚌One-way public transit | $0.75-2 |
| 🏨3-star hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Natal and Genipabu attractions
- Beautiful dunes and lagoons
- Laid-back atmosphere and affordable prices
- Friendly locals and safe, family-friendly environment
- Limited nightlife within Extremoz itself
- Heat and humidity can be intense in peak summer
- Some areas have limited English spoken; transport relies on car or ride-hailing
- Seasonal rainfall can affect outdoor plans
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu não entendi" - I didn’t understand
- "Aceita cartão?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Eu sou vegetariano/vegetariana" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Extremoz
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic red dunes with sweeping views, ideal for golden-hour photography and dune buggy tracks.
Wide beach with wind-sculpted sand, palm trees, and reflections off the water.
A scenic lagoon nearby offering turquoise waters and birdlife, great for sunset shots.
Clifftop or roadside viewpoints with expansive sea horizons at dusk.
Food in Extremoz
Extremoz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shrimp stuffed in a split pumpkin, a coastal specialty best found at seafood restaurants along Genipabu.
Must-Try!
A traditional fish stew with vegetables and herbs, commonly served with rice and farofa.
A hearty mix of rice, beans, and dried cheese, a staple of Northeast Brazilian cuisine.
Steamed cornmeal dish often served with eggs, cheese, or coconut milk.
Savory or sweet tapioca crepes sold by street vendors; fillings range from cheese to coconut and jam.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend markets offering fresh seafood, fruits, local crafts, and ready-to-eat snacks like tapioca and peixe frito.
Small neighborhood markets with fresh fish, cassava flour, coconut, and regional ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or a warm 'Olá'; use 'Senhor/Senhora' with adults you don’t know well.
Portuguese is the local language; a few basic phrases in Portuguese help in markets and small shops.
Casual, comfortable clothing is common; avoid loud public displays of anger; be polite when negotiating in markets.
Safety
Tipping in Extremoz
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% service charge is common if not included; you can round up the bill if service was good.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; many places also accept mobile payments. Small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with frequent showers in the afternoon; humidity remains high. Bring sunscreen, light clothing, and plenty of water; expect lively beaches and strong sun.
Milder days with cooler evenings and lower rainfall; comfortable for outdoor activities and dune walks. Humidity still high, but temperatures are more moderate.
Extremoz at Night
Hiking in Extremoz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short scenic hike along the dune profiles with viewpoints and photo opportunities.
Urban park with forested trails a short drive from Extremoz; good for longer nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Extremoz by plane.
Located in São Gonçalo do Amarante, about 20-30 minutes from Extremoz by car; serves domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families, older residents, and small-business owners supportive of tourism.
Brazilian visitors from other states seeking beaches, dunes, and seafood experiences.
Some travelers from neighboring countries and longer-term visitors exploring Natal region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national pastime, played casually on beaches or organized leagues.
Popular on windy days along the Natal coast, with rental shops and lessons nearby.
Common in beach areas and parks, especially during weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Extremoz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Extremoz you can find vegetarian options like queijo, legumes, rice and beans, and tapioca fillings; ask for no fish stock and to substitute meat with vegetables or tofu.