Porto de Galinhas
Crystal-clear waters, natural pools, and excellent infrastructure place Porto de Galinhas among the most charming and unforgettable destinations in Brazil.
Porto de Galinhas is located approximately 60 km from Recife International Airport, in the district of Ipojuca. The beach, on the south coast of Pernambuco, is one of the most beautiful and admired places by Brazilian and foreign visitors alike. What was a small and quiet fishing village has become one of the most popular paradise destinations in the country.
Ecotourism enthusiasts will simply love Porto de Galinhas. The region is renowned for projects that help protect the environment and safeguard local biodiversity. At low tide, natural pools with clear warm water are formed by beautiful coral reefs. When this fascinating natural phenomenon happens, several colorful species of fish can be seen. Visitors can either get to the pools on rafts or they can wade through the water.
Natural pools
Photograph: Thiago Cavalcanti
The beach is also a wonderful location to go diving to watch local marine life up close. Several spots have excellent visibility, which is ideal. The island of Santo Aleixo, which has deeper natural pools, is one of the favorite spots among experienced divers.
With white-sand and lots of coconut trees, Porto de Galinhas Beach is located right in front of the village with the same name. Muro Alto Beach, on the other hand, has characteristic sandstone walls, hence the name. Together with Maracaípe Beach, which is a great option for tourists traveling with their families, they are two of the most popular beaches in the region.
The village of Porto de Galinhas has great infrastructure that includes accommodations, sophisticated local cuisine, paradise settings, and very friendly people. An interesting option is a visit to Vila de Todos os Santos (the Village of All Saints), located just a few kilometers from Porto de Galinhas. It is home to many local bars and restaurants that will please everyone. It’s ideal for visitors looking for lively nightlife.
The best thing about Porto de Galinhas is that its beauty does not only lie in its beaches. Tourists can choose what to do and see from a wide variety of possibilities. They can go diving around the coral reefs, enjoy the natural pools, go on raft rides or buggy rides, go diving to see seahorses in Maracaípe River, and go for a stroll around the village center, where they can find several souvenir stores, handicraft stores, and restaurants to suit every budget. Local handicrafts include ceramic pieces, embroidered pieces, hammocks, blankets, and many other options that tourists can take home with them.
Porto de Galinhas really is an amazing and unforgettable destination!
By Plane
+55 (81) 3322-4188
Porto de Galinhas is located approximately 60 km from Recife International Airport, the only airport in the region. Since it is so close to the capital city, getting there is very easy.
By Bus
+55 (81) 3207-1088
Buses from Recife to Porto de Galinhas depart from three different locations: Santa Rita Wharf Bus Station, Recife Bus Terminal (TIP), and Recife International Airport. The coaches take approximately two hours to get to Porto de Galinhas. As there is no bus station in Porto de Galinhas, the bus makes several stops along the main street in the village.
Personal Vehicles and Rentals
Visitors can drive from Recife to Porto de Galinhas. If you are leaving from Recife Airport, you will need to take Federal Highway BR-101 and later turn off into State Highway PE-060, which will take you to the district of Ipojuca. From there, you will follow State Highway PE-038 to the city of Nossa Senhora do Ó. After that, take Federal Highway BR-009, which passes by Muro Alto Beach and Cupe Beach, and goes all the way to Porto de Galinhas Village Center.
On Foot
The Porto de Galinhas coastline stretches for 18 km. A walk along the waterfront and around the village center is great fun.
Personal Vehicles and Rentals
Since local traffic is really light, a good option to get around is to rent a car.
Taxis and Ridesharing Companies
One of the options to get around the city is to use taxis and ridesharing companies.
Useful Numbers
Tourism Board:
+55 (81) 3552-1480
Tourist Assistance Center:
+55 (81) 98957-4263
Military Police: 190
Paramedics: 192
Fire Department: 193
Power Voltage
220V
Local Weather
Porto de Galinhas is a destination that can be enjoyed all year round. The average temperature in the region is 28°C and the weather is constantly warm.
