Things To Do
in Jericoacoara
Jericoacoara (often called "Jeri") is a small, remote beach village on the northeastern tip of Brazil known for its dramatic sand dunes, iconic Pedra Furada rock arch, and consistent trade winds. Once a sleepy fishing community it has become a popular spot for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and relaxed beach tourism while retaining a laid-back, car-free center of sandy streets and palm-fringed pousadas. The setting inside a national park gives visitors clear water lagoons, wide beaches, and golden sunsets that draw photographers and nature lovers.
Expect a slow, barefoot rhythm of life, simple local cuisine, and easy access to outdoor adventures from buggy tours to sailing excursions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh tropical fruits and pão de queijo. After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of the stunning sand dunes surrounding Jericoacoara, where you can marvel at the shifting landscapes and the vibrant colors of the sunrise. Capture breathtaking photographs as the sun casts golden hues over the dunes, creating a magical atmosphere.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant, indulging in local seafood specialties while listening to the gentle waves. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the pristine beaches or trying out exciting activities like sandboarding down the dunes. As the day progresses, take a refreshing dip in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean to cool off.
As the sun begins to set, find a comfortable spot on the beach to witness one of Jericoacoara's famous sunsets, where the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. After sunset, stroll through the charming village streets lined with artisan shops and local eateries. Enjoy a traditional dinner at a rustic restaurant, experiencing the flavors of northeastern Brazilian cuisine.
Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Jericoacoara by interacting with local artisans and vendors. Sample traditional snacks and purchase handmade crafts, such as hammocks and pottery, as you wander through the stalls. Afterward, take part in a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Brazilian dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
For lunch, enjoy the meal you prepared during the cooking class, savoring the flavors of your culinary creations. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Jericoacoara, visiting the Igreja Nossa Senhora do Rosário, a historic church that reflects the town's rich heritage. Stop by local galleries to appreciate the artwork of regional artists and perhaps purchase a unique piece to remember your trip.
As night falls, join a traditional forró dance night, where you can learn to dance the lively rhythms of Brazil while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local steakhouse, sampling a variety of grilled meats and regional sides. Wind down your day at a beach bar, sipping on caipirinhas while listening to live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍹Cocktail / Caipirinha | $4-8 |
| 🏨Budget pousada per night | $30-70 |
| 🚐Shuttle transfer from Fortaleza | $30-50 |
| 🏄Kitesurf lesson (group) | $50-100 (per session) |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches, dunes and unique natural landmarks like Pedra Furada
- Excellent wind and water-sport conditions (kitesurfing/windsurfing)
- Relaxed, barefoot village atmosphere with great sunset views
- Access to lagoons, dunes and protected park landscapes
- Remote location with limited medical facilities and logistical links
- Sandy, pedestrian-only streets can be challenging with luggage or mobility issues
- Limited variety for specialized diets and fewer upscale services than big cities
- Can be crowded in peak wind/high seasons and holiday periods
- "Olá / Bom dia" - Hello / Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado (male) / Obrigada (female)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica a praia / a lagoa?" - Where is the beach / the lagoon?
- "Eu sou alérgico a ..." - I'm allergic to ...
Places to Visit in Jericoacoara
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic natural rock arch is best photographed at sunrise or low tide; dramatic light at golden hour makes this a must-see.
Large sand dune offering unobstructed views of the sunset over the water and silhouettes of locals and visitors sliding down the sand.
Crystal-clear freshwater lagoons with suspended hammocks and palm reflections — ideal for relaxed, colorful photos and portrait shots.
Vibrant kitesurfing action against blue water and strong winds; great for action and motion photography during wind season.
Sandy lanes, fairy lights, and open-air bars create atmospheric evening scenes capturing Jeri’s relaxed nightlife.
Food in Jericoacoara
Jericoacoara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coconut milk- and dendê-flavored fish or mixed seafood stew—try it at seaside restaurants in Jeri or nearby towns for a regional twist.
Must-Try!
A simpler local fish stew with rice and vegetables, commonly found in restaurants and served fresh from local catches.
Cassava starch pancakes filled with sweet or savory fillings (cheese, coconut, banana, or vegetables); a great breakfast or snack from street vendors.
A vegetable version of the moqueca catering to vegetarians, sometimes made with hearts of palm, eggplant and coconut milk.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small vendors near the beach and town serve tapioca, grilled seafood skewers, fried fish, and fresh coconut water — perfect for quick, inexpensive bites.
After sunset, you’ll find carts and small stands offering snacks like pastel, acarajé (influenced by regional Bahia flavors), and grilled seafood; try them where locals gather.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings matter: use 'Olá', 'Bom dia' (good morning), and 'Obrigado/Obrigada' to show appreciation. A friendly handshake or cheek kiss (one on each side) is common in social settings.
Streets are sandy and often walked barefoot; shoes on the sand is fine but respect local businesses that may ask for shoes inside.
Jericoacoara is inside a protected national park — avoid littering, do not remove coral or shells, and follow rules on dune and mangrove access.
Beachwear is fine on the sand but avoid walking through town in only swimwear; casual smart at restaurants is appropriate in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Jericoacoara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory; rounding up small bills or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is normal if service is good. Guides, drivers and beach staff appreciate small cash tips for good service.
Cash (Brazilian real) is king in Jeri — small vendors and some pousadas may not accept cards. Many restaurants and hotels accept cards, but card machines can be intermittent. ATMs are limited (often in Jijoca or larger towns), so bring enough cash or withdraw in Fortaleza before heading to Jeri.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hotter, sometimes more humid with occasional rain showers; beaches are pleasant and water is warm but it's a busier tourist period around holidays.
Higher chance of rain and cloudier days, especially in March–April; some tours may be less predictable but lagoons are full and greenery is lush.
Generally dry with consistent trade winds — best for kitesurfing and windsurfing, clearer skies, and cooler evenings; this is high season for wind sports.
Jericoacoara at Night
Hiking in Jericoacoara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy coastal walk across dunes to the famous rock arch; best at low tide and sunrise for photos and calmer conditions.
Short hike up small hills offering panoramic views of the coastline and village — excellent for sunrise or late-afternoon photography.
Short walks between lagoons and small dunes, perfect for relaxed hikes, birdwatching and exploring freshwater pools.
Longer excursions that may include walking through mangrove channels and small trails to remote lagoons and peaceful beaches; often visited as part of full-day tours.
Airports
How to reach Jericoacoara by plane.
A small regional airport close to Jijoca de Jericoacoara serving domestic flights (seasonal connections); from the airport you typically take a short 4x4 transfer over sand roads to the village.
The main international gateway to the region (Fortaleza). Many visitors fly into Fortaleza and then take a shuttle or hire a private transfer (4–6 hours depending on route) to Jericoacoara — transfers often include a final stretch over sand in a 4x4 vehicle.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-time residents whose livelihoods traditionally came from fishing and small-scale agriculture; they form the cultural backbone of the village.
A growing population employed by pousadas, restaurants, tour operators and rental companies — many come from elsewhere in Ceará or other Brazilian states.
A steady stream of domestic Brazilian and international visitors, including digital nomads and expatriates who stay seasonally or longer in Jeri’s relaxed environment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of Jeri’s signature sports — strong, steady winds and shallow lagoons make it ideal for learners and pros alike.
Popular alongside kitesurfing, with rental centers and instructors available during the windy season.
The universal Brazilian sport — informal beach and street games are common among locals and visitors.
A fun local activity on the dunes, popular with children and adults.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jericoacoara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (tapioca, salads, rice and beans, vegetable moqueca) but fewer than in larger cities; tell restaurants in advance and ask for substitutions.
Vegan meals are available but limited; bring staples if you’re strict and seek out pousadas and restaurants that can prepare plant-based dishes.
Tapioсa is naturally gluten-free and many seafood dishes are safe, but cross-contamination can occur — clarify with staff when ordering.
Language can be a barrier; learn to say your allergy in Portuguese (e.g., 'sou alérgico a amendoim' = I'm allergic to peanuts) and carry allergy medication as options can be limited.