Nicknamed the Caribbean of Brazil, the reef offers some of the country’s best snorkeling conditions, especially at low tide, as well as opportunities for scuba diving. Most travelers visit Maracajaú by boat tours taking them from the beach to floating platforms—jumping off points to the reef, but also handy rest stops for coming up for a breather. Most tours include access to snorkels, fins, and masks.
Maracajaú is located about an hour's drive north of Natal near the city of Maxaranguape, a 15-minute boat ride from Maracajaú Beach. The easiest way to get there is by joining a guided snorkeling tour with hotel pickup.
The reef is best visited during the dry season (August to November) when water visibility is at its best for snorkeling and diving. March tends to be the wettest month.
While Maracajaú is best known for snorkeling and scuba diving, this town also offers wind conditions ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Active travelers can also kayak or stand-up paddleboard in the warm waters, or try some sandboarding on the Morro da Prazinha dune.