Ceará is a state on the northeastern coast of Brazil, in South America. It is known for its pristine beaches, its sand dunes, and a lively forró music culture that visitors tend to notice soon after arriving. The state is often abbreviated as CE.
Much of the coastline is the main draw. Fortaleza, the state capital, serves as a major beach destination, so it is a natural base for anyone whose trip is built around the sea. From the city, the shoreline stretches in both directions, offering a range of settings for a day of sun, swimming and walking along the sand.
What a visit offers
- Beaches: a long, varied coast of sandy shores that suits both quiet days and busier stretches.
- Sand dunes: a landscape that sets Ceará apart from many other coastal areas and rewards an unhurried walk.
- Forró music: a vibrant musical tradition that is part of everyday life in the state, and an easy way to experience local culture.
- Fortaleza: a city to explore between trips to the coast, with its own energy and places to eat and stay.
Planning your trip
Ceará suits travellers who want the sea as the centre of their journey, along with the chance to hear and feel the music that is so much a part of the state. Because the coastline is extensive, it is worth deciding in advance which beaches and dune areas you want to reach, and how far you are willing to travel from the capital to see them. Whether you come for a short stay or a longer one, the combination of coast, dunes and forró gives the state a character that is easy to recognise and easy to enjoy.