Jericoacoara has consistently featured in lists naming the world’s top ten beaches since it first appeared on the tourist circuit proper about ten years ago.
However, unlike many former paradise beaches in Brazil, Jeri (as it is known to the locals) has been spared overdevelopment by virtue of being on the edge of a protected national park. This park contains a series of stunning lagoons which are surrounded by an endless sea of shifting sand dunes.
The largest of these is parked at the edge of the small village. And it is here where the brave and foolhardy congregate to sandboard down the sheer face of this 150 foot sand monster. It’s sweatier than snowboarding, and yes, it hurts more when you fall, but when you have finished the run down the hill, the clear blue sea is only a few feet away.
Getting started couldn’t be easier, the tourism office in the centre of town rents boards for less than a dollar a day. Plucking up the courage to go over the edge is a little trickier, but once you do, the thrill is spectacular.
At the end of the day, a large crowd gathers at the top of the giant dune for an unforgettable sunset. Once darkness falls, the fire torches are out and the local capoeira experts put on a free display of this unique martial art.
Any injuries from the day’s sandboarding, whether it’s a grazed knee or a bruised ego, can be soothed by one of the many caipirinha stands that line the beach.
If you are looking for more sedentary diversions the following day, the Mosquito Blue Hotel offers a range of spa treatments. Bruised egos may take a little longer to heal.