João Pessoa is the capital of Paraíba and sits on Brazil's easternmost point, in the north-east of the country. It is known as the "City Where the Sun Rises First", a nickname that suits a place where the day begins earlier than almost anywhere else in the country.
The coast
The city's beaches are its main draw. Coral reefs close to the shore form natural pools at low tide, where the water is calm enough for an easy swim and shallow enough to wade among the rocks. Further along the coast, dramatic red cliffs rise above the sand, giving the shoreline a striking colour. Much of this coastline stretches for miles, so you can spend a day moving from one stretch of sand to another.
The city itself
The historic centre keeps its colonial architecture, with older streets and buildings that show the city's long past. Along the beachfront, newer developments offer hotels, apartments and promenades, so the two faces of João Pessoa sit close together. A walk from the old centre to the sea is a quick way to see both.
- Food: the city is well regarded for seafood, which fits naturally with a coast of reefs and fishing.
- Evenings: the nightlife is lively, with places to eat and drink, especially around the beachfront.
- Beaches: the natural pools and red cliffs make the shoreline the focus of most visits.
João Pessoa suits visitors who want a coastal city with history at its centre and easy access to quiet water. Plan a few days to take in both the old streets and the beaches beyond them.