Natural pools in Porto de Galinhas

A short guide of getting the most out of this destination

The natural pools in Porto de Galinhas can be found at the central beach and clearly explain why this beach since 2001 has been cited as the best beach in Brazil.

If you come to Porto de Galinhas for a few days, here we share some cool tips and facts with you, so you can enjoy your stay to the fullest. Don’t forget to add the visit of natural pools to your itinerary. It`s a must! So here is what you need to know.

Important information

How the Natural Pools in Porto de Galinhas are formed

The pools have formed due to the position of the sea and the huge reef which runs along the coastline for approximately 700 meters. The space created between the sea and the reef has enabled the formation of natural pools which the public are allowed to swim and bathe in, taking the tidal timetable into consideration, whilst surrounded by thousands of small fish.

Tides

Take the time to learn how the tides and the tidal timetable works. Those people who arrive at high tide won’t find anything special at the central beach, because the reef will already be covered by water and it will be impossible to see.

However, in order to be able to enter the natural pools, you must wait until the tide rises to at least 1m.

Preservation

Let’s start with the stuff that nobody likes to know:

Is it ok to walk on the reef? No, I’m sorry! This is covered with very sensitive coral which, when stepped on, simply dies.

Also, there are many sea urchins and when you step on them the sting you and it hurts pretty badly. The only way to get them out is by going to the hospital.

To avoid hurting yourself or coral, it is better to rent a boat and get to the pools this way. It is safer for you, coral and you help the local people as well (we repeat again, it is prohibited to step on it).

There are two natural pools that are maintained and open to the general public. In both, it is almost impossible to walk around, thanks to a large amount of fish that constantly swim around you.

Blitz Ambiental: the bracelet and the video

For those people who don’t use the Jangada (boat), much of the time, and mostly during the high season, in order to enter the natural pools it is necessary to obtain a specific bracelet (which can be got for free). This bracelet can be found all along the central beach in small stalls marked “Blitz Ambiental.” Inside the stalls, you will have to watch a 3 minutes video which explains all the necessary information for looking after the environment in the region and then you are given the bracelet to give you access to the pools themselves.

HOW TO ARRIVE TO THE POOLS​

The natural pools are located approximately 200 meters away from the coastline, which means that they are easily accessible in two ways.

– By jangada:

You can take what is known as a jangada (a small boat that is directed by the “jangadeiro” – the person who drives the boat).

– Swimming:

it is also possible to arrive by swimming or walking to the pools, but it is imperative that you are a strong swimmer because, when the tide rises and it is time to return, the only way back will be by swimming and the waters, at this time of day, are always a lot stronger. Safety first!

+ Advantages of going by boat (jangada)

– Tranquility

If you visit the natural pools in Porto de Galinhas by jangada, it is not necessary to know how to swim, it is a great way for the entire family to enjoy the pools together and it is really easy to carry cameras in order to take photos or make videos of your experience. The negative part is that you have just around 40 min to see everything.

– Safety first

Always the number this rule. For unexperienced swimmers, is always better to be cautious in order to enjoy 100% the trip.

– Local economy support

And our favourite, you will be supporting local economy. The Jangadas are managed 100% by locals. The “jangadeiro” profession is carried out by locals, who have inherited this right and knowledge of their ancestors.

+ Recommendations about the natural pools in Porto de Galinhas

– At high tide, you must take care when swimming because the borders of reef tend to be sharp and are liable to cut you if you are not careful.

– Wear something on your feet (flip flops are a good choice) to protect them from the sea urchins on the reef.

– If you choose to swim to the pools, we recommend that you wear little clothing and carry almost nothing with you.

– Finally, and as we have already highlighted in this article, take the time to learn how to read the tidal timetable, because with a knowledge of this important information you can go ahead and better plan your activities during your stay.

Natural Pools All Year Round

Owing to the wonderful climate in this region all year round (the temperature on average maintains a beautiful 29 degrees), the natural pools in Porto de Galinhas can be visited on any of the 365 days of the year. Whether there be sunshine or rain, nothing will stop you from enjoying the natural beauty of these pools.

The central beach in Porto de Galinhas is very popular with international tourists on the weekend. However, the beach is on average the favorite spot for natives from Recife and other parts of Brazil.