Natal: coastal charm between dunes and sea
With beautiful beaches, areas of white sand dunes and a rich and diverse culture, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte offers its visitors a unique leisure and entertainment experience.
Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte, is a destination that enchants with its unique combination of stunning beaches, golden dunes and a welcoming atmosphere. Its crystal clear waters and white sands are an invitation to relaxation and adventure. But beyond the paradisiacal landscapes, Natal stands out for its rich and vibrant culture, evident in its music, cuisine full of northeastern flavors and local traditions that enchant visitors from all over the world.
Fun facts
Natal has more than 300 days of sunshine a year, which earned the city the nickname “Cidade do Sol” [City of the Sun].
Those born in Natal are known as “potiguar”, which means “shrimp eater”, a reference to the seafood that is easily found in the region.
Natal is known for having one of the largest cashew trees in the world! The giant tree is located on Pirangi do Norte beach, in the municipality of Parnamirim, just 12 km south of Natal. Visitors can pick some cashews and enjoy them. The place is one of the main tourist attractions among people who visit Natal.
A coastal paradise with golden sands and crystal clear waters
The city has many attractions, a rich culture and a diverse cuisine. Praia do Meio and Praia dos Artistas are two famous beaches that are connected. Full of natural pools, it is the ideal place for those who want to swim in a calmer sea.
Praia da Ponta Negra, 12 kilometers from the center, is one of the best known in Natal. There is the famous Morro do Careca, a local dune surrounded by Atlantic Forest and over 100 meters high, a landscape well known on the city's postcards.
A city full of nuances and flavors
The cuisine of Rio Grande do Norte is rich and diverse. The list of ingredients in the main recipes includes shrimp, sun-dried meat, fish, cassava and tapioca. Among the seafood, shrimp is a highlight in the city, even earning a festival dedicated to seafood - the Shrimp Festival takes place annually in September and attracts locals and tourists to try delicious dishes.
The crustacean is the star of most restaurants and you can find it in many dishes, prepared in the most varied ways. Don't forget to try Bobó de Camarão, a dish made with mashed manioc, fresh shrimp, palm oil and ginger.
Crab stew, a popular crab dish in local restaurants, tapioca and ice cream and popsicles made with regional fruits are also some of the local delicacies.
The Ponta Negra neighborhood is one of the liveliest areas in the city. On the waterfront of Av. Roberto Freire, Av. Praia Ponta Negra and the surrounding area, you will find several bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy the incredible view and typical cuisine from Rio Grande do Norte.
Cultural treasures and traditions
Among the monuments in the city of Natal, one of the most important is the Fortaleza dos Reis Magos, the city's initial landmark and a heritage site listed by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage – IPHAN.
The building is located in Praia do Forte, another unmissable tourist spot in the city, and preserves cannons on display at the top of the building, a chapel with a freshwater well and accommodation.
Explore the region
There are several attractions around Natal. If you can extend your trip a little longer, it is worth visiting the Genipabu Dunes, about 20 km from the city, the famous Pipa Beach, in the municipality of Tibau do Sul, with quad bike rides at Praia do Amor, Praia do Madeiro and Cacimbinhas, and São Miguel do Gostoso, 102 km from Natal, known for its Kite Surfing and Wind Surfing sports, which is favored by strong winds throughout the year.
To ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable, Visit Brasil recommends hiring certified service providers who comply with technical standards for ecotourism and adventure activities.
One thing is certain, there is no shortage of beautiful places to be enchanted in Natal.
