Pipa Beach Day Trip from Natal: Cliffs, Dolphins & Village Walk

Summary

Atlantic cliffs dolphins and Pipa’s colorful village life

You’ll feel the Atlantic breeze as you climb down to Praia do Madeiro for a swim, watch for dolphins with your guide nearby, then soak up cliff views at Chapadão and stroll through Pipa’s lively village streets. From hotel pickup in Natal to sunset colors on the return drive, every part feels relaxed but quietly vivid.

What’s the experience like?

We were halfway down the BR-101 before I’d even finished my first coffee — the driver joked it was “early for Brazilians,” but honestly, the sunrise over Natal was worth being up for. Our guide, Fernanda, pointed out the patches of Atlantic Forest still hanging on between the sugarcane fields. I caught a whiff of salt and something sweet as we got closer to Tibau do Sul. The bus windows fogged up a bit when we pulled in near Pipa Beach Complex — maybe from the sea air or just everyone getting excited at once.

First stop: Praia do Madeiro. There’s this long wooden staircase down to the sand (my legs are still reminding me), but it’s worth it when you get that first hit of cool ocean air. Some folks spotted dolphins way out past the surfers; I mostly just floated and let my mind wander — there’s something about that water, you know? Fernanda laughed when I tried to order coconut water in Portuguese. Still not sure what I actually said.

After drying off, we headed to Chapadão — those cliffs are wild, all red and orange layers against this impossible blue sky. You can see Praia do Amor from up there; people say it looks like a heart, which is sort of true if you squint. Lunch was slow and easy in one of those open-air spots (the grilled fish smelled amazing even before it hit our table). We wandered through Pipa village after — little shops, kids chasing each other barefoot, music drifting out of doorways. I still think about that view from Chapadão sometimes when things get too busy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Pipa Beach and Village

• Depart hotels in the morning
• Arrive at Pipa Beach Complex
• Swim at Praia do Madeiro and Baia dos Golfinhos
• Visit Chapadão cliffs and Praia do Amor
• Lunch with free time at Praia do Amor
• Explore the village of Pipa

Top questions

How far is Pipa Beach from Natal?

Pipa Beach is about 90 km south of Natal by road.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Natal.

Are there stairs to access the beaches?

Yes, both Praia do Madeiro and Praia do Amor are accessed via stairs.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

No, due to stairs at some beaches it is not wheelchair accessible.

Does the tour include lunch?

No lunch is included but there is free time to buy lunch in Pipa village.

Will we see dolphins at Baia dos Golfinhos?

Dolphins are often seen but sightings cannot be guaranteed.

What should I bring on this day trip?

A swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes for stairs and some cash for lunch or shopping.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Natal with an air-conditioned vehicle plus a professional local guide who’ll handle logistics while you visit Praia do Madeiro and Baia dos Golfinhos for swimming or dolphin spotting. You’ll also have time at Chapadão cliffs and free hours to explore Pipa village before heading back in comfort.