The coastline running west of Fortaleza [1] towards Maranhão [2] is known as the Costa do Sol Poente (Coast of the Setting Sun). Its beaches tend to be more deserted, but no less spectacular than those to the east. The star attraction is Jericoacoara [3], a primitive paradise set amidst magnificent dunes that is routinely celebrated by international travelistas as one of the planet’s most perfect beaches.
Linked to Fortaleza by the well-paved CE-085 coastal highway, most beaches, with the exception of Jericoacoara, can be easily visited in a day trip by car, organized excursion, or bus.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/the-northeast-coast/fortaleza-and-ceara/fortaleza
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/the-northeast-coast/maranhao
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/the-northeast-coast/fortaleza-and-ceara/jericoacoara