Costa do Conde: Coqueirinho, Tambaba & Tabatinga Beach Day Trip

Summary

Three beaches coconut palms cliffs and a river meets the sea

You’ll ride south from João Pessoa with a local guide to swim at three Costa do Conde beaches: soft-sanded Coqueirinho, unique Tambaba (naturist optional), and Tabatinga where river meets sea. Expect warm water, friendly locals selling snacks, time for a clay bath under cliffs—and moments that might surprise you.

What’s the experience like?

The van picked us up right outside our hotel in João Pessoa — I was still half-asleep, clutching my coffee, but the guide (André) was already wide awake and cracking jokes. We headed south along the coast, and after maybe 40 minutes or so, those wild coconut trees started popping up everywhere. First stop: Praia de Coqueirinho. The sand there is so soft it actually squeaks under your feet (I tested it, probably looked weird). The water’s warm — not hot-tub warm, but you don’t flinch walking in. Locals were already setting up umbrellas; one woman sold grilled cheese on a stick and I caved instantly. Salty, smoky, gone in two bites.

Next was Tambaba Beach — André explained it’s the first official naturist beach in the Northeast. I’ll admit I hesitated at the entrance (I mean, you know), but he just grinned and waved us through to the non-naturist side first. There’s this little path with red clay cliffs towering above you, and if you pause for a second you can hear the sea echoing off them. Some folks were braver than me and wandered over to the naturist area — honestly, everyone seemed pretty chill about it. The air smelled like sunscreen and wet stone.

Last stop: Tabatinga Beach. This part felt almost secret — cliffs on both sides, river meeting ocean right where we waded in. The water here mixes fresh and salty; you can feel the difference if you pay attention (I tried to explain that to my friend but she just laughed). André showed us where people rub clay from the cliff onto their arms — supposedly good for your skin? It left me streaky but kind of happy anyway. There’s a lookout point up a short hill; we climbed it slow because of the heat, but that view—yeah, I still think about that view sometimes when I’m back home staring at my screen.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit three paradisiacal beaches

• Explore Coqueirinho Beach
• Visit Tambaba naturalist beach
• Enjoy Praia de Tabatinga
• Experience river and sea encounter
• Take photo at the lookout
• Optional Penélope Charmosa car tour

Top questions

How far is Costa do Conde from João Pessoa?

It’s about 35 km south of João Pessoa by road.

Is hotel pickup included for this beach tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

What beaches are visited on this day trip?

You visit Coqueirinho Beach, Tambaba Beach (naturist optional), and Tabatinga Beach.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

Are there food options during the tour?

Local vendors sell snacks like grilled cheese at some beaches.

Can I visit the naturist area at Tambaba Beach?

The naturist section is optional; there’s also a non-naturist side.

Is swimming safe at these beaches?

The waters are predominantly calm and warm for swimming.

How long does the Costa do Conde beach tour last?

The experience lasts most of the day with stops at each beach.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from João Pessoa plus guidance throughout by a local expert who knows all three Costa do Conde beaches inside out—so you won’t miss anything (or get lost between those coconut palms). Snacks aren’t included but are easy to buy along the way before heading back in comfort.