João Pessoa
João Pessoa, the capital city in the state of Paraíba, is one of the greenest locations in the world, and visitors can enjoy the local nature in several different ways. Since the city is located on the easternmost point in South America, where the sun rises first and lights up the fantastic local beaches, it is popularly called the “Entryway for the Sun” (Porta do Sol).
The beaches are the main attractions in João Pessoa. Because of the warm temperatures in the city throughout the year, visitors usually spend their days either enjoying the sea or lying on the sand. At the end of the day, they are ready to hit the local restaurants and try all that wonderful seafood.
official event links below.
Traditional local handicrafts from the Northeast of Brazil
One of the most popular beaches in the region is Ponta do Seixas, a cape where the sun rises first in Brazil. It is home to Cabo Branco Lighthouse, which marks the easternmost point of the American continents. Visitors to the region can also go to Tambaba Beach, the first naturist beach in Brazil’s Northeast Region, also considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Paraíba state. Another beach worth your visit is Cabo Branco Beach, which offers unforgettable views of the region from its 40m-tall sandstone wall. In total, the local beaches account for 30 km of the state coastline. There are plenty of options for tourists to choose from.
The crystal-clear natural pools are a unique spectacle. During low tide, beautiful pools are formed in the middle of the coral reefs, and many visitors take the opportunity to see all the colorful local fish up close. The Picãozinho, Seixas, and Caribessa natural pools, just off the coast, are wonderful attractions that can be enjoyed during the whole year.
Those who are looking for something different might like to try Alligator Beach (Praia do Jacaré). Lots of visitors go there to watch the sunset. At the end of the afternoons, musicians on rafts play Ravel’s Bolero, truly an amazing experience. Another attraction that everyone must experience is Red Sand Island (Ilha de Areia Vermelha), reddish sand banks surrounded by natural reefs formed during low tide.
The local cuisine will also impress all visitors. João Pessoa is one of the greatest producers of rapadura (unrefined whole cane sugar in solid form) and cachaça (distilled spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice) in the country, a legacy from the state’s golden age of sugar factories. Also, as everyone already knows, seafood is abundant along the coast of Paraíba. But if visitors are looking for something new, in João Pessoa they will be able to try two typical dishes from the state’s hinterland: sun-dried beef and buchada de bode (goat intestines cooked and served in the goat’s stomach, very similar to the Scottish Haggis). The sun-dried beef is usually served with a side of cassava, black-eyed peas, and liquid butter, while buchada is normally served with rice.
Tambaú Market is a great option for the evenings. Take the opportunity to learn a little more about local hand craftsmanship, such as local embroidery and crochet techniques, and, of course, get some souvenirs. The techniques are used in the making of several types of products, such as hand bags, bedspreads, towels, and clothes. Local artisans are also experts in pottery work.
Culture enthusiasts will simply love the city’s historic center, added to the National Heritage List by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN). Local buildings have different styles from different eras, including colonial, art nouveau, and art deco styles. The city center comprises the main architectural collection in the state of Paraíba. And don’t forget to add Solon de Lucena Park to your itinerary when you visit João Pessoa, as it is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Noone can resist the park’s colorful magical water fountain.
By Plane
+55 (83) 3041-4200
Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport is located in the city of Bayeux, only 12 km from downtown João Pessoa. The airport operates domestic and international flights.
By Bus
+55 (83) 3222-6567
If you are traveling by car or by bus, the main routes to João Pessoa are Highways BR-101 and BR-230. João Pessoa Bus Terminal operates routes from the main Brazilian cities.
By Bus
There are over 80 bus routes that cover the entire city and will take tourists to the main local attractions. For more information on the routes, please click here.
Personal Vehicles or Rentals
A good way to get around the city and to visit nearby destinations is to rent a car.
Taxis and Ridesharing Companies
Taxis and ridesharing companies are a great option to get around the city of João Pessoa.
Useful Numbers
Tourist Information Center:
+55 (83) 3247-7848
Tourism Department:
+55 (83) 3218-9850
Tourist Police Station:
+55 (83) 3214-8022
Military Police: 190
Paramedics: 192
Fire Department: 193
Power Voltage
220V
Local Weather
With average annual temperatures around 27°C, João Pessoa is the ideal place to enjoy the beautiful beaches in the Brazilian Northeast Region. After all, the whole region is generally sunny all year round. Just keep in mind that you may get a little more rainfall between the months of April and July.