We put together this guide with the best of Greater João Pessoa — from João Pessoa to Cabedelo, Conde and Lucena — so you can make the most of every day of your trip. Beaches, natural pools, culture, food and practical tips, straight from the people who look after your stay.
The city's liveliest waterfront, with bars, restaurants and live music. It's also the departure point for boats to the Picãozinho natural pools.
Living cliffs, a long promenade and Ponta de Seixas — the easternmost point of the Americas, where the sun rises first on the continent.
Natural pools formed by a reef 1,500 m off Tambaú Beach. A catamaran ride, crystal-clear water and colorful fish — best from November to March, at low tide.
A sandbank in the open sea that only appears at low tide. A must-do boat trip between João Pessoa and Cabedelo, part of a state marine park.
One of the region's most traditional experiences: sunset at the mouth of the Paraíba River, with live forró and MPB right on the beach, every Saturday.
Voted one of the ten most beautiful beaches in Brazil: cliffs, palm groves and natural pools. Great for relaxing on one side and for surfing/kitesurfing on the other.
Also worth visiting are Tabatinga, Carapibus and Jacumã (Conde) and, for those after quieter beaches and a different outing, the ferry crossing to Lucena, on the other side of the Paraíba River Bay.
A Baroque complex listed by Iphan, with the Church of São Francisco, the Convent of Santo Antônio and the Golden Chapel — one of Brazil's greatest Baroque collections.
A science, culture and arts center designed by Oscar Niemeyer, with a lookout over preserved Atlantic Forest and sea views — free admission.
The "Lagoa," in the city center — great for a walk, a run, or simply soaking up the local vibe away from the beach.
The twin-towered cathedral dedicated to the city's patron saint, in the heart of the Historic Center — surrounded by heritage-listed colonial churches and mansions.
One of João Pessoa's icons, next to Ponta do Seixas — the easternmost point of the Americas. A lookout, sunsets and open sea views.
One of Brazil's largest urban Atlantic Forest reserves: trails, a lake and plenty of greenery — a breath of nature within the city.
Also worth seeing are the São Bento Monastery and the Church of São Frei Pedro Gonçalves, downtown; Arruda Câmara Park (Bica), the city's traditional zoo-botanical park; and the nightlife of the Historic Center squares, such as Praça Antenor Navarro, after dark.
One of the city's most traditional northeastern-cuisine buffets — a must-stop to get to know the local food.
At the tip of Cabo Branco Beach, one of the most praised addresses for seafood — sophisticated, with live piano at night and sea views.
Specialized in seafood, in Manaíra — a favorite among those visiting the João Pessoa waterfront.
A traditional seafood spot near Mag Shopping, known for its generous shrimp dishes.
The highest bar in Brazil with a sea view: 145 m up, on the 44th floor of the Tour Geneve Complex, in Altiplano. Drinks, small plates and a breathtaking sunset.
The city's new food hotspot, on Rua Joaquim Avundano (Miramar): a short street packed with bars, restaurants, cafés and live music.
Tambaú and Cabo Branco offer great tapioca — a Paraíba classic — at any time of day.
The Jacaré sunset turns into a night of forró and MPB on Saturdays; the Tambaú waterfront is the hub for bars and everyday nightlife.
Other great picks for food lovers: The W and Canoa dos Camarões, facing the sea; and panoramic restaurants such as NUI 360. Book ahead on weekends.
Official video by the João Pessoa City Hall.
Talk to the Ancorar team and find the ideal place for your stay in Greater João Pessoa.
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