Things To Do
in Guamaré
Guamaré is a small coastal municipality in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, known for its salt flats, fishing communities and proximity to offshore oil operations. The town mixes working‑class industry with quiet beaches, mangroves and wide coastal plains. Visitors find simple local life, fresh seafood and easy access to natural scenery like dunes, tidal creeks and reflective salt ponds.
Guamaré is best for low‑key beach time, nature photography and experiencing northeastern Brazilian coastal culture away from large tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming historic center of Guamaré, where you can stroll through cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings. Take in the sights of the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, a beautiful church that showcases local architectural styles. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and coffee.
After lunch, explore the local artisan shops where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs made by local artisans. Visit the Museu de História Natural to learn about the region's biodiversity and cultural history. Spend your afternoon relaxing by the waterfront, enjoying the scenic views of the harbor.
As the sun begins to set, head to one of the local seafood restaurants for a dinner featuring freshly caught fish and shellfish. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather to share stories and laughter. Wind down your evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the sounds of the waves and the gentle breeze.
Kick off your day at Praia de Guamaré, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the soft sands. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters, keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Grab a refreshing coconut water from a beachside vendor as you bask in the tropical ambiance.
In the afternoon, join a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life in the nearby coral reefs. The warm waters and clear visibility make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. After your underwater adventure, relax on the beach with a good book or take a leisurely swim in the gentle waves.
As evening falls, gather around a beach bonfire with fellow travelers for a night of storytelling and laughter. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beach bar, indulging in local delicacies like shrimp skewers and caipirinhas. Under the starry sky, listen to live music that captures the essence of Brazilian culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (bar) | $1.50-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $0.80-2 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3–5 km) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic coastal town with strong local character
- Great for photography of salt flats, mangroves and fishing life
- Fresh seafood and simple, affordable local cuisine
- Close to natural habitats and birdwatching opportunities
- Limited tourist infrastructure and fewer services than larger coastal cities
- Public transport is sparse—a vehicle or arranged transfers are often needed
- Some facilities accept only cash and ATMs can be limited
- Nightlife and high-end dining options are minimal
- "Olá / Bom dia / Boa tarde" - Hello / Good morning / Good afternoon
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado (if you are male) / Obrigada (if you are female)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Banheiro?" - Bathroom?
- "Socorro!" - Help!
- "Sou vegano/vegana" - I am vegan
Places to Visit in Guamaré
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light on sand and boats makes for classic coastal shots of fishermen, nets and reflective water.
Low tide and evaporation ponds create mirrored surfaces and geometric patterns—excellent for minimalist and abstract photos, especially at golden hour.
Boat trips through mangroves offer intimate wildlife scenes, birds and textured roots—bring a telephoto for birds and a polarizer for water glare.
Activity hubs where boats are loaded and repaired—great for documentary-style street and occupational photography.
Local everyday life, markets, and church façades provide cultural context and portrait opportunities.
From certain viewpoints the silhouettes of offshore structures can create dramatic industrial-coastal compositions—observe restricted zones and do not attempt access to facilities.
Food in Guamaré
Guamaré Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Local shrimp preparations are common—grilled, in garlic sauce or stewed; try them at seaside restaurants and small eateries.
Must-Try!
A regional fish stew made with coconut milk or tomatoes, served with rice and farofa; often available at family restaurants and beach kiosks.
Sun‑dried beef served with boiled cassava (macaxeira), a Northeastern classic you can find at traditional diners (botecos) nearby.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small weekly markets sell fresh fish, fruit, baked goods and regional snacks—try acarajé (when available from vendors), fried pastries and fresh tropical fruit juices.
Simple beachfront stalls serve grilled fish, shrimp, cold drinks and caipirinhas; ideal for casual meals with coastal views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake and eye contact are common in formal settings; friends may greet with one cheek kiss (common in the Northeast). Use 'bom dia' (good morning), 'boa tarde' (good afternoon) and 'obrigado/obrigada' (thank you).
Daytime beachwear is fine on the sand, but dress more modestly in town centers and churches. Be respectful when photographing people—ask permission, especially in fishing communities.
If invited into a local home, bring a small gift (sweets or fruit) and remove shoes if hosts do so; accept refreshments politely.
Avoid littering, respect protected mangrove areas and follow local guidance about where to walk near salt pans and dunes to prevent habitat damage.
Safety
Tipping in Guamaré
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping (gorjeta) is appreciated but not always mandatory. Many restaurants may add a 10% service fee—check the bill; otherwise rounding up or leaving 5–10% is common. Round up fares for taxi or tip a few reais for helpful guides or porters.
Cash (Brazilian real, BRL) is widely used—small shops and markets often accept only cash. Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and businesses; mobile instant payment system PIX is widely used in Brazil and may be accepted by local vendors. ATMs are available in town but can be limited—carry sufficient cash when exploring remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February: hot, sunny and humid with temperatures often in the high 20s–low 30s °C (80s–90s °F). Expect strong sun—bring sunscreen, hat and water. Sea conditions are usually good for beachgoing but always check local swim safety.
March to July: the heavier rains tend to fall in this period—showers and occasional storms can reduce beach time but make the landscape greener and are good for bird activity. Some rural dirt roads may become muddy; pack quick‑dry clothes.
August to November: drier weather, lower humidity and more stable conditions for outdoor activities. Coastal winds increase at times—good for breezy afternoons and comfortable evenings.
Guamaré at Night
Hiking in Guamaré
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Informal walks along dunes and beaches allow exploration of coastal habitats—best at low tide and with sun protection.
Short guided trails or boat-based walks through mangroves offer wildlife observation and low‑impact exploration opportunities.
Gentle walks around salt evaporation ponds provide unique scenery and photo ops—avoid restricted operational areas and wear footwear suitable for salty, uneven ground.
Airports
How to reach Guamaré by plane.
A regional airport in Mossoró (roughly 40–90 minutes by road depending on route) with limited connections—convenient for closer regional access.
The main international airport serving Rio Grande do Norte, approximately 2–3 hours by road depending on traffic; offers the most flight options and car rental services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding local families whose livelihoods center on fishing, fish processing and small‑scale commerce.
People working in nearby salt production and offshore oil/gas operations, including transient and shift workers who influence the local economy.
An ethnically diverse population typical of Brazil's Northeast—people of mixed (pardo), Afro‑Brazilian, European and Indigenous descent with strong regional cultural traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport nationwide—played informally on beaches and in local fields; community matches are common.
Given the coastal setting, informal beach sports are popular for locals and visitors alike.
Both a livelihood and a recreational activity—artisanal fishing methods are an integral part of local culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guamaré.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but available: rice, beans, salads, fried manioc and some vegetable stews. Ask for dishes without dried meat or fish stock; small markets offer fruit, cheese and bread for simple meals.
Vegan choices can be sparse—plan ahead, carry snacks, and rely on markets for fruit, beans, rice and vegetables. Communicate clearly in Portuguese (e.g., 'sou vegano/vegana').
Rice‑based dishes and grilled fish are generally safe, but check breads, sauces and fried items for wheat flour. In smaller towns, cross‑contamination is possible.