Travel Research: 5 Paradisaically-Chic, Coastal Retreats in Northeast Brazil
Inns at which to stay when seeing the most beautiful beaches in the Americas.
Curated Recommendations and Guide
Brazil is one of the world’s largest countries, and one of the most dynamic economies in the Americas. Yet, from a hospitality perspective, its stunning coastlines have remained relatively free of international resort hotel brands, or luxury-level accommodations – at least until recently. A few Brazilian outposts like Fasano have made a splash, but the big North American and European hotel chains are few and far between. We spent years in the early aughts looking for such a perfect retreat. Trancoso came early unto the bohemian beach scene in the 80s and 90s, and offers a respectable selection of hyped-up lux hotels for the well-heeled urbanites of São Paulo and Rio. And of course, Buzios and Ilha Grande have always been an escape for those monied city folk. But the rest of the coastline, and in particular the northeast, only offered either completely rustic pousadas without much concern for quality experiences, or banal, family-oriented hotels that had little spirit of place, much less ‘luxury.’
But we kept looking and exploring until we finally found a few destinations with a perfect balance of everything for which we were looking: places that are quiet, have exceptional food & privacy, a hint of tasteful decor, are hospitable but not overly stuffy, and are budget friendly. Most have spotty internet, no TVs or AC, outdoor showers, and Portuguese-speaking staff that are overly friendly but not trained in the refined ways of luxury establishments. Yet, they provide access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Americas. Ranging from $130 to $380 USD per night, we share five of our favorite chic retreats on the Northeastern coast – a treasury years in the making.
Toca Coruja - Pipa, Pousada Santa Clara - Boipeba, Pousada Ecologica Akana - Fernando de Noronha, Natal's Morro do Careca, UXUA Casa - Trancoso, Txai - Itacaré, Praia da Pipa, Pousada Santa Clara - Boipeba
Photo Credit: Syllogi, National Geographic, Hotel Websites, Trip Advisor
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