Maracajaú, Coastal beach in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

Maracajaú is a beach in Rio Grande do Norte with white sand bordered by coconut palms and natural dunes along the coast. The shoreline lies approximately 55 kilometers north of Natal and features submerged coral reef structures.

Maracajaú is a fishing community and beach in the municipality of Maxaranguape, Rio Grande do Norte, about 50 km from Natal. Its roughly 2,000 residents live mainly from fishing, with tourism as a second source of income. The coral formations called Parrachos de Maracajaú lie about 7 km off the coast.

Maracajaú is a Tupi name, and the community of about 2,000 people lives mainly from fishing, with tourism as a second income. Visitors notice the working boats and the catch landed on the beach, and can eat fresh fish in local restaurants. The coral reefs 7 km offshore, called Parrachos de Maracajaú, are the main draw for boat trips.

Visitors can book boat tours from the beach to reach the coral reefs and rent snorkeling gear on site. Most services are arranged directly with local operators at the water's edge.

The Parrachos coral reef formation spans a large area and creates natural pools during low tide. These shallow water ponds with varying depths offer opportunities for snorkelers of different experience levels.