Itapuama Beach

Itapuama is a beach in Cabo de Santo Agostinho, the municipality just north of Ipojuca (where Porto de Galinhas is), so it is outside Ipojuca. According to Wikipedia, it lies between Paiva Beach and Pedra do Xaréu, with clear, warm water and volcanic rock formations. It is best known for surfing.

What it is

The name comes from Tupi-Guarani and means “beautiful stone”, according to Wikipedia. English Wikipedia describes a beach about 2 km long, popular for water sports and fishing, with hotels, bars and restaurants.

Portuguese Wikipedia highlights that Itapuama has consistent waves, suited to beginner surfers, and that the beach has hosted surf competitions. Cyclists also frequent the area. On the left side of the beach are the volcanic rocks that give the place its name.

We do not name businesses or give prices.

Where it is and how to get there from Porto de Galinhas

Wikivoyage places Cabo de Santo Agostinho about 40 km north of Porto de Galinhas. The exact distance to the beach has not been confirmed by an official source.

The easiest way to go is by car, taxi or ride-hailing app. See the options in how to get to Porto de Galinhas.

When to go

For surfing, conditions depend on the day’s swell and wind, and the sources consulted do not point to a specific season. For swimming, choose a calm sea and lower tide, when the rocks are visible and it is easier to avoid the dangerous stretches. Plan with the Porto de Galinhas tide table, which uses the Suape Port station.

Who it suits

• Beginner and intermediate surfers, according to Wikipedia’s description.
• People who like rocky scenery and photographing rock formations.
• Visitors to Paiva who want to see the neighboring beach.

It is not the best choice for small children who want still water. For that, the natural pools in Ipojuca are a better fit: see Porto de Galinhas beaches.

Environmental and safety tips

The attention zone of CEMIT, the Pernambuco state committee that monitors shark incidents, covers 33 km between Farol Beach, in Olinda, and Paiva Beach, in Cabo. Itapuama lies just south of that limit and is not listed in the stretch. Even so, follow the agency’s recommendations: avoid swimming in open sea, at dawn and dusk, in murky or deep water, alone or after drinking.

• Do not climb or jump from wet rocks.
• Respect the surfers’ area and the lifeguards’ flags.
• Take your trash back with you.

How to fit it into your itinerary

Itapuama is worth a morning or afternoon and pairs well with Paiva, just to the north. The guide to beaches near Porto de Galinhas suggests using the Cabo beaches as a stop on the way to or from Recife airport. Surf fans can compare it with the waves at Maracaípe, within Ipojuca.