Praia do Francês, White sand beach in Marechal Deodoro, Brazil.

Praia do Francês is a beach of pale, soft sand in Marechal Deodoro, Alagoas, where reefs protect the left end and create natural pools at low tide. The sand slopes gently to the waterline, and the sea shades from turquoise to dark green. The opposite end is wilder, with strong waves.

Local residents say the name comes from French Brazilwood smugglers who used this stretch of the Alagoas coast during the colonial period. The beach lies in the municipality of Marechal Deodoro, in the Brazilian state of Alagoas.

The name recalls French Brazilwood smugglers who used this stretch of coast during the colonial period, as local residents tell it. Today the left side, sheltered by reefs, holds bars, restaurants and natural pools, while beach vendors sell local delicacies and craft shops line the area.

Plan your visit around tide schedules, as high tides reduce the usable sand area significantly. Low tide is the best time for swimming and exploring the reef zones.

The beach's name comes from French Brazilwood smugglers who used this stretch of the Alagoas coast during the colonial period, as local residents tell it. The left end is sheltered by reefs that keep dangerous marine animals out of the bathing area, while the opposite side has strong waves and hosts surfing competitions.