Ponta Negra beach in Natal, Brazil

Ponta Negra beach is among the best of Natal, Brazil

Ponta Negra and Natal have undergone quite some development in recent years. Not too long ago, Natal was little more than a fishing village. Now, the skyline equals to that of many large modern towns. 

Beach promenade of Ponta Negra

With the construction of the promenade next to Ponta Negra beach, the little “barracas” (little huts serving food) have been ungraded to kiosks. They were also relocated on to the promenade. It is a great development, however, I do miss the little simple “barracas” on the sand serving the daily catch.

Ponta Negra beach is where all the big and small hotels of Natal are. Hence, the majority of tourists stay here.

Ponta Negra beach landmark is the Morro do Careca 

With its very wide stretch of sand during low tide and the green hills surrounding it, Ponta Negra beach is among the best of the country. Its land mark is the Morro de Careca. This spectacular high sand dune ends up straight into the sea water.

In the past, it was possible to climb up the dune albeit with considerable effort. Nowadays, it is cordoned off as corrosion was taking a big toll on it. And also to prevent further erosion to the vegetation flanking it.

All about out door life in Ponta Negra beach, Natal

Due to its equatorial climate, life in Natal and Ponta Negra is all about spending time on the beach.

Plenty of activity

Even when low tide occurs at 6 AM, there is already plenty of activity on Ponta Negra beach. I found joggers, people doing Yoga and little fishing boats returning from their outing. Or numerous folks just taking a walk on the nearly four kilometres long beach. Others just join a spontaneous soccer game, swim, kiteboard or surf.

Lunch on Ponta Negra beach

There are a number of restaurants in Ponta Negra village and some food served from the Kiosks.  But the majority of people buy their food from the numerous carts passing by.

The choice of dishes is big, Shrimps cooked in a delicious coconut sauce to grilled lobster, fish and meat, you name it. If not that hungry, a plate of fried macashera (a potato like root) is great. Or the grilled local cheese with some oregano sprinkled on it. Its actually get cooked in front of  you on a little charcoal grill.

Brazilian tapioca-flour pancakes served in Ponta Negra Beach

This very Brazilian street food is made of cassava starch and water. The mixture is sifted to produce a snow-like powder which is sprinkled onto a hot skillet. There it melts together to form a crepe. There is a vast variety of toppings to choose from. When well done it is delicious.

Crepes

Some carts prepare paper thin crispy golden French style crepes. These do it for me. Either simple with just cheese, tomato, oregano or with meat, shrimps or fish stuffing. If you have a sweet tooth, you might get the Nutella one possibly with some banana topping.

Fresh Oysters on Ponta Negra beach

On weekends or holidays when the beach gets rather crowded, fresh Oysters from Pipa are brought in and sold from cool boxes.

They are rather small but tasty. A word of caution. Eating fresh oysters is always a bit risky. Having said that, I enjoy them since many years and have never had any problem.

Feeling thirsty?

But not only does your food pass by but also your drinks. You can choose between a Pina Colada, Caipirinha, beer etc. Or some natural fruit drink with papaya, mango and other local fruits.

Natural energy drink

Otherwise get the local energy drink i.e. some cooled fresh coconut water. It is a good source of several nutrients and has antioxidant properties. Very beneficial after prolonged exercise. And a delicious source of hydration.

But there is more: You will see local women putting the coconut water on their skin and their hair.

Umbrella and sun beds in Ponta Negra beach

The kiosks on the promenade rent out umbrellas and sun beds. They are quite cheap especially compared to European prices.

Watch the water

Do not get surprised by the high tide coming. It might mean that you need to move up onto the promenade.

Kiosks

The kiosks also serve drinks and a limited number of dishes. Theoretically, they are not allowed to do any cooking.

Plenty of flying salesmen on Ponta Negra beach, Natal

There is a large number of flying salesmen displaying all sorts of merchandise which you can admire while comfortably sitting in your beach chair. They can become a little invasive. But they are only trying to make their living. Take it as entertainment.

Ponta Negra Beach, the best in Natal

So, as already mentioned, Ponta Negra Beach is the best of town for a variety of reasons:

• It is close to four kilometres long. So, even if it becomes very crowded during the weekend you will still find a quite place to chill.
• The beach is also rather deep. This means that when the high tide arrives, you will be able to spend more time on the beach before it is flooded.
• Ponta Negra beach is policed so safer than others. However, still keep up your guard.
• It is absolutely great for some walking, jogging, playing beach ball or joining some other sports activity.
• If into kiteboarding or body surfing, this is the place to be in Natal. By the way, it is great fun to just watch these people doing their thing.

Conclusion

I have been going to Ponta Negra and Natal for many years. Therefore, I can say that I am rather impressed by the development of the place in the last 10-15 years. I hope that quality tourism rediscovers this place again. It has all the potential and definitely deserves it.

Posts on Natal and surroundings include various day trips that you can do; where to have the best food, my experience during a buggy tour and finally some travel tips.

Enjoy the read!

PS: If you are into beaches, why not check out the amazing beaches of the Turks and Caicos.