Jericoacoara East Coast: 4x4 Tour, Lagoa do Paraíso & Dunes

Summary

East coast of Jericoacoara by 4x4 with hammocks in the lagoon

You’ll ride a 4x4 along Jericoacoara’s wild east coast with stops at Árvore da Preguiça, Preá Beach’s calm shores, the Blue Hole at Lagun Beach, and finally Lagoa do Paraíso with its floating hammocks. Expect sand between your toes, laughter on the dunes, and time to drift in crystal-clear water—perfect if you want to feel part of Jeri for a day.

What’s the experience like?

We piled into the back of a 4x4 just outside Jericoacoara, sand already sticking to my ankles. Our driver, Paulo, waved us on and grinned—he said we’d see the “lazy tree” first. I didn’t get it until we stopped by Árvore da Preguiça, this sideways tree that looked like it just gave up fighting the wind. Someone nearby was selling coconuts out of a cooler; I grabbed one and tried to say thanks in Portuguese (not my best moment). The breeze was salty and warm, kind of perfect for standing around doing nothing except staring at a tree lying down.

The drive to Preá Beach was bumpy—felt like my teeth were chattering—but then you hit these stretches where it’s just blue sky and kitesurfers zigzagging across the water. Paulo pointed out some lagoons shimmering behind the dunes. We didn’t stop long at Preá, but there was this peacefulness to it, not many people around except a few kids playing with a dog who kept running off into the surf. The sun was sharp but not punishing; I forgot sunscreen on my knees (regret).

Next up was Lagun Beach—the “Blue Hole,” Paulo called it. It’s new-ish and still feels a bit raw around the edges. The water is so clear you can see your toes wiggling under the surface (mine looked weirdly pale). We took photos on top of these sandy ridges that looked almost fake against the sky. Then came those famous Jeri dunes—giant piles of sand that swallow your feet with every step. I tried to run down one and nearly wiped out; Paulo laughed so hard he had to sit down.

Lagoa do Paraíso is where everyone sort of melts into relaxation mode. There are hammocks strung right in the shallow water—honestly, you just flop in and let your legs float while tiny fish dart around your toes. The place isn’t fancy but has this charm: wooden decks, soft chatter from other travelers, someone playing forró music on their phone nearby. I ordered grilled fish with farofa for lunch (tasted smoky and crunchy), then lost track of time completely. Even now, when I think about Jericoacoara east coast tour days, that slow swing in a hammock comes back so clearly—like my brain wants to nap too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Jericoacoara East Coast highlights

• Observe and photograph Sloth Tree
• Visit Prea Beach village
• Relax at Lagoa do Paraíso
• Explore Blue Hole Box

Top questions

How long does the Jericoacoara east coast tour take?

The tour typically lasts most of the day with multiple stops along Jericoacoara’s east coast.

Is hotel pickup included for this Jericoacoara tour?

Yes, pickup is included as part of your day trip from Jericoacoara.

What should I bring for swimming at Lagoa do Paraíso?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, sandals or flip-flops, and maybe a towel for relaxing by the lagoon.

Are meals or drinks included on this day trip?

No meals or drinks are included; you can buy food and drinks at stops like Lagoa do Paraíso.

Is this Jericoacoara 4x4 tour suitable for kids?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but infants must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Can pregnant travelers join this east coast tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers due to bumpy roads and dune driving.

What makes Árvore da Preguiça special?

The famous Sloth Tree grew sideways because of strong winds—it’s unique to Jericoacoara’s landscape.

Do we visit both Preá Beach and Lagun Beach?

Yes, there are stops at both Preá Beach and Lagun (Blue Hole) during the day trip from Jeri.

What’s included

Your day includes transport by 4x4 vehicle with pickup from your accommodation near Jericoacoara, visits to Árvore da Preguiça (the Sloth Tree), Preá Beach’s lagoons, Lagun Beach (Blue Hole), photo stops on Jeri’s dunes at scenic spots chosen by your guide, plus plenty of time relaxing in hammocks over Lagoa do Paraíso before heading back.