Things To Do
in Caucaia
Caucaia is a coastal municipality in Ceará, Brazil, just west of Fortaleza, offering a mix of beaches, lagoons, and lively fishing villages. Its shoreline features wind-friendly dunes at Cumbuco and Icaraí, making it a top spot for kite surfers and beach lovers. The town has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with colorful markets, seafood stalls, and warm hospitality.
Accessible by road from Fortaleza, Caucaia makes a perfect base for exploring the Ceará coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Igreja de São José de Ribamar, a beautiful church that showcases stunning colonial architecture. As you wander the cobblestone streets, take in the vibrant colors of the local buildings and enjoy the unique street art that adorns many walls. Stop by a local café for a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and fresh coffee to fuel your exploration.
After lunch, continue your adventure by heading to the Museu Histórico de Caucaia, where you can learn about the rich history of the region through engaging exhibits. Spend some time in the local artisan market, browsing handmade crafts and perhaps picking up a unique souvenir. As the sun begins to dip, make your way to the waterfront to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Wind down your day with dinner at a quaint local restaurant offering authentic regional dishes. Savor the flavors of moqueca, a traditional Brazilian seafood stew, while listening to the sounds of live music nearby. After your meal, take a moment to relax on the beach and watch the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues.
Kick off your beach day at Praia do Cumbuco, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Rent a kiteboard or join a lesson to experience the thrilling sport that draws enthusiasts from around the globe. Enjoy the warm sun and refreshing ocean breeze as you engage in this exciting water activity.
After an exhilarating morning, recharge with a beachside lunch at one of the many restaurants offering fresh seafood and tropical drinks. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or participating in additional water sports, such as stand-up paddleboarding or windsurfing. Alternatively, take a calm swimming break to cool off and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
As evening approaches, gather around a beach bonfire with fellow travelers and locals for a truly memorable experience. Enjoy some grilled local fare while sharing stories and music as the stars begin to twinkle above. End the night with a leisurely walk along the shore, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🥤Coffee or soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $5-12 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beaches and dunes are iconic for wind sports and photography
- Close to Fortaleza with easy access to urban amenities
- Hot and humid climate can be tiring in peak sun
- Some areas can be crowded or less developed for certain services
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu sou vegetariano/vegetariana" - I am vegetarian
- "Pode recomendar um prato típico?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
Places to Visit in Caucaia
Visit one of these nice places.
Towering white sand dunes with wind-sculpted ridges, perfect for sunrise silhouettes and action shots of kites.
Long, golden beach with calm turquoise waters and fishermen’s boats—a classic Ceará postcard.
Shallow lagoon framed by palm trees and reed beds; ideal for reflections at sunset.
Food in Caucaia
Caucaia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice and beans cooked with queijo coalho and carne de sol, a regional staple often served with a side of farofa.
Must-Try!
A tomato-based fish stew with coconut milk and regional seasonings, typically served with arroz e pirão.
Whole fish baked on a clay tile with garlic and herbs, a Ceará coastal favorite.
Crispy cassava with a creamy nata dipping sauce—popular alongside seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and regional ingredients; great for trying street bites.
Tapioca, acarajé-inspired bites, and grilled skewers often available after sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bom dia', 'Boa tarde' and a handshake; maintain polite eye contact.
Address older people with 'Senhor/Senhora' and use formal language until invited to use 'tu'.
Ask before photographing people or private moments; modest attire when visiting religious sites.
Light, casual beachwear is fine near beaches; dress modestly when visiting churches or more formal spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Caucaia
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding 10-15% at sit-down restaurants if service is not already included; small tips for hotel staff and tour guides.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in major places; mobile payments (PIX) increasingly popular in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with strong sea breezes; ideal for swimming, kite surfing, and beach lounging.
Afternoon showers and higher humidity; lush scenery but plan for brief downpours and variable seas.
Mostly sunny, lower rainfall, comfortable daytime heat; great for long beach days and dune exploration.
Warm days with occasional rains; fewer crowds and good value on accommodations.
Caucaia at Night
Hiking in Caucaia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible walking routes over the dunes with island-like viewpoints and sunrise scenes.
Flat trails around the lagoon with wildlife and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Caucaia by plane.
Fortaleza International Airport, the main gateway to Caucaia and the surrounding region; taxi or ride-share connections run to the town from the airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of Caucaia with strong fishing and farming roots, many living in small towns or on the coast.
Visitors chasing wind sports and beach scenery, often staying in Cumbuco or Icaraí areas.
People who work in markets, fishing docks, and hospitality during peak season.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Excellent conditions on the windswept shores of Cumbuco for all levels.
A signature sport of the dunes; world-class kitesurfing conditions and schools.
Casual matches along the beach and in community spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Caucaia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-based baião de dois, cassava, noodles, and fresh fruit; ask for água de coco or juice rather than heavy seafood sauces.