Taipu de Fora Beach

Taipu de Fora is home to the largest natural coral reef pool in South America — at low tide, extensive reef formations trap warm, crystal-clear water in natural pools that stretch for kilometres, creating some of the finest snorkeling in all of Brazil. The pools are extraordinarily shallow in places — waist-deep warm water over living coral gardens bursting with tropical fish, sea turtles, seahorses, and octopus. The contrast between the brilliant white sand beyond the reef and the turquoise water inside the pools is one of the most beautiful coastal sights in the country.

The beach is reached via a dirt road through coconut palm groves from the village of Barra Grande on the Maraú Peninsula, delivering a genuine off-the-grid tropical experience. Traditional jangada rafts take visitors out through the reef passage for a different perspective on the pools, and boat tours from Barra Grande include multiple reef pools along the peninsula's coast. The timing of visits is critical — the reef pools are accessible only during low tide, and the best snorkeling is during the 2-3 hours around low tide. Check tide tables before making the journey.