Things to do
Shopping in Porto de Galinhas: handicrafts and souvenirs
The chicken is the symbol of the village and its handicrafts. See what to buy, where to look and how to support local work.
Updated on October 5, 2026 ✓ Information checked on October 5, 2026 adapted from the Portuguese original
Browsing the village shops is one of the activities mentioned by Ipojuca City Hall, which describes a center full of local handicraft and souvenir shops. Shopping fits well with the late afternoon and evening, when the village is livelier.
The chicken as a symbol
The name Porto de Galinhas (“Port of Chickens”) has a historical origin linked to the illegal slave trade, as explained in the history of Porto de Galinhas. Over time, the chicken became the symbol of the village. Ipojuca City Hall suggests taking photos with the colorful chicken sculptures scattered around the village.
In handicrafts, the chicken appears in many versions: carved in wood, hand-painted, in fabric, as decorative pieces and as small souvenirs. It is the gift most associated with the destination.
What to buy
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Handicraft chickens | In wood and other materials, in many sizes and colors |
| Wooden pieces | Sculptures of marine wildlife and decorative objects |
| Painted fabrics | Dish towels, cangas (sarongs) and towels with local motifs |
| Beachwear | Bikinis, cover-ups, hats and flip-flops |
| Costume jewelry and accessories | Made with seeds, fibers and other natural materials |
| Pernambuco sweets | Bolo de rolo (a thin rolled cake with guava paste), fruit sweets and cocadas (coconut sweets) |
| Cashew nuts | A practical edible souvenir to take home |
Bolo de rolo has been Cultural and Intangible Heritage of Pernambuco since State Law No. 13,436 of 2008. It is an edible souvenir with local identity. See more flavors in where to eat.
Where to shop
- Village shops: the largest concentration of handicrafts and souvenirs, a few steps from the main beach.
- Craft market: brings together artisans’ stalls and souvenirs. It is usually busier at night. Check days and times on site.
- Beach vendors: they sell cangas, hats, costume jewelry and snacks. Agree on the price first.
- Ipojuca town: if you visit the Ipojuca historic center, you may find local shops of a different kind, aimed more at residents.
How to shop responsibly
- Choose local artisans. Ask who made the piece and where it comes from. Many shops mix regional handicrafts with mass-produced goods.
- Bargain respectfully. At markets, negotiating is common, but remember that the price pays for handmade work.
- Ask about payment methods. Not every stall accepts cards.
- No shells, coral or marine animals. Porto de Galinhas is in an environmental protection area, according to Ipojuca City Hall. Do not buy items made with coral or animals taken from the sea.
- Keep the receipt for more expensive purchases, in case you need to exchange them.
Souvenirs by type of person
- For home décor lovers: a hand-painted wooden chicken or a sculpture of marine wildlife.
- For gifts for lots of people: dish towels, keyrings and magnets, light and easy to carry.
- For food lovers: bolo de rolo, regional fruit sweets and cashew nuts.
- For use on your trip: a hat, canga and beach cover-up bought on day one.
- For children: small, colorful chicken-themed pieces.
Before buying food to take on the plane, check your airline’s rules on carry-on luggage and perishable items. Factory-packaged sweets usually travel better.
Best time to shop
The village fits shopping well into the rest of the day. One idea is to browse the shops in the late afternoon, after the beach, then head to dinner and the craft market in the evening. That way you avoid the strong sun and enjoy the village at its liveliest. See ideas for the evening in Porto de Galinhas nightlife.
Rainy day? Time to shop
When the weather turns or the tide is not right for the pools, the village shops are a good alternative. Combine them with an unhurried lunch and a coffee with bolo de rolo.
Attractions mentioned
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Free access Village Porto de Galinhas village Porto de Galinhas Village The small center of Porto de Galinhas, right by the main beach, with shops, handicrafts and nightlife. Best explored on foot, at high tide. See details - History and culture Surroundings Ipojuca Historic Center The town that is the seat of the municipality, about 13 km from Porto de Galinhas, has one of the oldest Franciscan convents in Brazil. A good plan for a rainy day. See details
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical souvenir from Porto de Galinhas?
The chicken. It became the village's symbol and appears in handicrafts made of wood, fabric and other materials, as well as in the colorful chicken sculptures mentioned by Ipojuca City Hall.
Where can I go shopping in Porto de Galinhas?
In the village, which is full of handicraft and souvenir shops, according to Ipojuca City Hall, plus a craft market that is busier at night.
Can I take shells and coral home as souvenirs?
No. Porto de Galinhas is in an environmental protection area, and Ipojuca City Hall asks that no one touch or damage the coral. Choose handicrafts made by local artisans instead.
Keep reading
Keep planning
-
Porto de Galinhas nightlife: what to expect at night Nightlife centers on the village: bars with live music, restaurants, ice cream parlors and shops open late. Read guide -
Where to eat in Porto de Galinhas: local food and areas Seafood, Pernambuco-style peixada, tapioca and bolo de rolo. Find out what to try and where the restaurants are. Read guide -
History of Porto de Galinhas and Ipojuca A name that holds the memory of the illegal slave trade, in a municipality shaped by sugar mills. Read guide