Natal, the sun-kissed capital of Rio Grande do Norte, is one of Brazil’s hidden gems. Known as the “City of the Sun,” it boasts year-round sunshine, golden beaches, delicious food, and some of the friendliest people you will meet in South America. Consequently, whether you are traveling on a budget or looking for luxury, Natal has something for everyone.
Content List
- Beaches: Where the Dunes Meet the Sea
- The People: A Northeastern Welcome
- Food: From Brazilian BBQ to Local Delicacies
- Where to Stay: Budget to Luxury
- Tips for Your Trip
Beaches: Where the Dunes Meet the Sea
Start your journey at Ponta Negra Beach, the heart of Natal’s coastal life. This lively stretch of sand is framed by beachside restaurants, buzzing nightlife, and the iconic Morro do Careca dune, a postcard landmark. Therefore, you must experience this vibrant spot. For something quieter and more exclusive, head to Via Costeira. This scenic coastal road is lined with resorts, backed by dunes from Parque das Dunas on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. Moreover, adventurers should not miss Genipabu, famous for its rolling dunes, freshwater lagoons, and exhilarating buggy rides. You can slide down sandy hills, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, and even spot camels for a quirky desert-by-the-sea experience.
The People: A Northeastern Welcome
Natal’s locals, known as potiguares, embody the easygoing spirit of Brazil’s northeast. Expect warm smiles, helpful directions (even if it is through gestures and a few words of English), and spontaneous conversations. Music is never far away; you are likely to hear forró, the region’s upbeat dance music, spilling from bars and beachside stages. Ultimately, the welcoming nature of the potiguares truly defines the city’s charm.
Food: From Brazilian BBQ to Local Delicacies
For meat lovers, Natal is paradise. Churrascarias (Brazilian steakhouses) serve endless skewers of perfectly grilled beef, pork, and chicken, carved right at your table. Favorites include Tábua de Carne, a popular spot to savor cuts alongside cassava, beans, and farofa. Furthermore, do not miss local specialties:
- Carne de sol com macaxeira (sun-dried beef with cassava)
- Queijo coalho, a grilled cheese snack often sold right on the beach
- Ginga com tapioca, fried fish served in a chewy tapioca pancake, a true Natal classic
- Fresh seafood dishes, especially shrimp and lobster, paired with icy caipirinhas
Dining here is as much about atmosphere as flavor. From casual beach huts serving grilled skewers to upscale seafood restaurants, Natal lets you taste Brazil in every bite.
Where to Stay: Budget to Luxury
Natal’s hotels cater to every traveler. Here are a few examples:
- Budget: Pousadas and small hotels in Ponta Negra, like Pousada Flor D’Acucena, offer clean, comfortable stays for under $30 a night. These are perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action without breaking the bank.
- Mid-Range: Aquaria Natal Hotel and Majestic Ponta Negra Beach balance comfort and value, with pools, beach views, and rooms averaging $70–$90 a night.
- Luxury: For beachfront bliss, stay at Wish Natal or Serhs Natal Grand Hotel & Resort along Via Costeira. You will enjoy infinity pools, spas, and gourmet dining for around $140 a night.
Tips for Your Trip
- Pack sunscreen and a hat; the sun here is strong year-round.
- Learn a few Portuguese phrases; locals appreciate the effort, and it will help in markets and small eateries.
- Use Uber or taxis to get around; for dunes and lagoons, book a buggy tour.
- Try both sides of Natal: the lively streets of Ponta Negra and the peaceful resorts of Via Costeira.