The main beach of Praia da Canoa Quebrada is quite dramatic with its rusty cliffs, soft white-sand beach, and warm, reef-protected waters. However, it is also quite busy. On foot, you can (and should) go east towards the more tranquil beaches of Majorlândia, Quixaba, and Lagoa da Mata. You can go even further by buggy.
The most popular trip is a three-hour journey that takes you to the splendid Praia da Ponta Grossa, 54 kilometers (34 miles) away, with stops at other beaches along the way. This half-day outing costs around R$180. It’s best undertaken in the afternoon, when it’s less hot and you can stop to watch the sunset from the dunes of Ponta Grossa.
Although you’ll be approached by buggy drivers on the beach, for safety’s sake, book a licensed bugueiro through a hotel. You can also contact the Associação dos Bugueiros de Canoa Quebrada (Rua Dragão do Mar, tel. 88/3421-7175).