PRAIA DA GUNGA

The reef at Barra de São Miguel runs parallel to the coast for about six kilometers until it bumps into a sandy point on the other side of the river’s mouth, called the Praia da Gunga. The reef divides Gunga Beach into two parts: the part inside the reef, which has calm ocean and river water, and the part outside the reef, which has large waves and rough surf. Both sides are beautiful and you can walk between them in a few seconds. The wavy side has several small beach bars near the point and then stretches on for about two kilometers to the next point. The entire stretch of beach is fenced-off by a palm tree grove. The calm side has small kiosks that serve beer, coconut water, and various lunch plates. You can find a nice, shady table, then take a Jet Ski out for a 10-minute ride. If you do not want to drive, then take a ride on a banana boat. Buggy excursions also leave from Gunga to various spots nearby.

During the week in the off-season, Gunga is not crowded and the kiosks have limited selections. But the sandy point is as picturesque as any tropical beach you’re ever likely to see. If you decide to stay for a second day, set yourself up in a hotel in Barra de São Miguel.