Fortaleza: 3 Beaches Day Trip with Buggy Ride Option

Summary

Three beaches from Fortaleza in one day with sand maze buggy ride

You’ll start early in Fortaleza and visit three unique beaches—Morro Branco’s colored cliffs and sand maze, Praia das Fontes’ relaxed shoreline, and lively Canoa Quebrada. Expect local guides who know every shortcut, optional buggy rides over dunes, and time to swim or just watch life drift by from a hammock. It’s the kind of day you’ll remember when you need some sun in your head again.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen sand that looks like rainbow cake?” That’s what our guide, Ana, asked as we stepped off the van at Morro Branco. I just laughed because honestly, I hadn’t — the cliffs were streaked with these wild colors I didn’t even know sand could be. The air was already warm but there was this salty breeze that kept it from feeling heavy. We wandered down into the sand maze while Ana explained how locals use the different colors for crafts — she picked up a handful and let it run through her fingers. It felt gritty and cool, not what I expected.

I caved and did the buggy ride (not included, but worth it if you ask me). It’s loud — the engine rattles your teeth a bit — but flying over those dunes is something else. At one point we stopped on top of this ridge and you could see all the way down to Praia das Fontes, where little beach shacks huddle against the cliffs. There was a guy selling grilled cheese on a stick; I tried one and burned my tongue because I’m impatient like that. The sea here smells sharper than back home, almost green somehow.

Canoa Quebrada was last — the vibe is totally different there. More people, hammocks strung up between palm trees, music coming from somewhere behind the tents. Our driver joked about how everyone ends up staying longer than they plan (I get why). The water was cool and clear and I still think about floating there after lunch, toes wriggling in the current while some kids kicked a ball nearby. On the way back to Fortaleza, everyone was quiet — sun-tired or maybe just full of that kind of good tiredness you get after a real day out.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit three beaches near Fortaleza

• Depart from Fortaleza hotel at 7h
• Visit Morro Branco beach
• Optional buggy tour at Morro Branco
• Visit Praia das Fontes and colorful sand maze
• Walk natural cliffs with local guide
• Arrive at Canoa Quebrada beach
• Enjoy beach tent and sea bathing

Top questions

How long does the 3 beaches day trip from Fortaleza take?

The tour starts around 7 am from Fortaleza hotels and returns in the evening after visiting all three beaches.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup from Fortaleza is included in your booking.

Are meals or drinks included on this tour?

No meals or drinks are included; you can buy food at beach stalls along the route.

Is the buggy ride at Morro Branco included?

No, the buggy ride is optional and paid separately on site.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants can join; they may sit on an adult’s lap or use a stroller/pram.

Which beaches are visited on this tour?

The tour visits Morro Branco, Praia das Fontes, and Canoa Quebrada beaches.

Is there a local guide during the tour?

Yes, a local tourism guide accompanies you during parts of the itinerary.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Fortaleza by air-conditioned vehicle plus guidance from locals who know these beaches inside out—just bring extra cash if you want to try that buggy ride or sample snacks along the way before heading back at sunset.