Pôrto de Galinhas Beach

Losing a little of its mysticism in translating Pôrto de Galinhas into Port of Chickens, this beach in the town of Ipojuca, in Pernambuco state, is nonetheless an excellent option for anyone seeking some Brazilian rest and relaxation.

Located around 60 kilometres south of Recife, the state capital, Porto de Galinhas has been chosen as Brazil’s best beach a staggering eight times in eight by the readers of one of the country’s leading travel magazines.

Palm-lined, and with restaurants opening directly onto the sands, this former fishing village has a legion of fans attracted to its blend of soft sand and offshore rock pools that appear in the expansive reef at low tide, and disappear again with the fish they trap as the tide rises.

Whilst swimming in the natural pools is perfectly safe, there can often be strong currents in the sea here so caution is advised.