Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável Estadual Ponta do Tubarão, Sustainable development reserve in Macau and Guamaré, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

The Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável Estadual Ponta do Tubarão is a large protected area encompassing diverse habitats such as mangrove forests, coastal plateaus, Atlantic Forest fragments, beaches, rivers, and lagoons. It spans multiple municipalities and brings together different natural environments in one region.

The reserve was created by State Law No. 8.349 of 18 July 2003, covering 12,960 hectares across the municipalities of Macau and Guamaré. It was the first sustainable development reserve in Rio Grande do Norte and the second established in Brazil.

Local communities in Diogo Lopes and Sertãozinho maintain traditional ways of living while actively participating in environmental protection and resource management. Their daily presence and local knowledge shape how the area functions and evolves.

The reserve lies on Diogo Lopes beach, in the municipalities of Macau and Guamaré, and covers 12,960 hectares. Access is by road from these two towns, which serve as the nearest bases for lodging and supplies. A local guide is the usual way to move between the beach, the mangroves and the trails.

The area combines scientific research, environmental education, and community tourism through guided walks on land and water. Local guides lead visitors and share their deep knowledge of the natural habitats.