Canoa Quebrada

Every beach town should be this laid-back. But with miles and miles of soft white sand, the green-blue waters framed by low red cliffs, why shouldn't it be? The symbol of the town is a half-moon and star, representing fertility. Hippie heritage aside, locals have expanded their businesses to include horseback riding for R$30 (US$15/£8) per hour, sand boarding for R$3 (US$1.50/£.80) per trip, and especially buggy rides either along the beach or into the vast sand dunes piled up behind the city. The full 2 1/2-hour buggy tour, which includes a passage along the beach and up into the dunes, costs R$180 (US$90/£49) per buggy (buggies seat two or three comfortably, four if you squish). Shorter tours ride along the cliff-top overlooking the beach, usually with a stop at a rainwater lagoon that looks like an oasis in the desert, the perfect stop for a swim or a cold beer. On the beach, barracas (stalls) rent out chairs and umbrellas, and food and drink is always close at hand, while local women offer scalp and shoulder massages for R$10 (US$5/£3).

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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