Port of Maceio cruise port guide

Port of Maceio — Maceio, Brazil.

Maceió, the capital of Alagoas in north-eastern Brazil, is known for its turquoise water, palm-lined beaches and natural reef pools. At low tide, jangada sailboats carry visitors out to the natural pools off Pajuçara beach.

Getting ashore

Where do cruise ships dock in Maceio?

Cruise ships berth at the Port of Maceió in the Jaraguá district, where the port's passenger terminal receives them; on some ship days local craft and food stalls are set up inside the terminal.

How do I get from the cruise port to town?

Downtown Maceió is roughly a 15–20-minute walk or a 5-minute drive away. At the dock, stands sell tours and independent transport to beaches farther out. For the Pajuçara and Ponta Verde beaches, most visitors take a taxi or a ride-hailing car (Uber or 99) rather than walk.

Getting around

Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Uber, 99) are available. Pajuçara and Ponta Verde are close; Praia do Francês and Gunga beach are about 30–40 minutes away.

Don't miss

• Pajuçara natural pools — reached by jangada sailboat at low tide (tide-dependent).
• Ponta Verde and Jatiúca beaches — urban beaches with promenades.
• Praia do Francês — a popular beach south of the city.
• Handicraft market — lace and local crafts.

Planning your day

Take a jangada to the natural pools if the tide is right, then relax on Pajuçara or Ponta Verde beach before returning.

Food & drink

North-eastern Brazilian food with plenty of seafood and coconut.

Where to eat

• Beach kiosks — Kiosks along the beach serve snacks and drinks.

Must try

• Tapioca — Crepes made with cassava flour and sweet or savoury fillings.
• Sururu — A local shellfish, often in stew.
• Coconut water — Fresh from the coconut.

Know before you go

• 🗣️Language — Portuguese; English is limited.
• 📋Documents — US, Canadian and Australian citizens need a Brazilian e-visa (reinstated in 2025); EU and UK citizens generally don't. Check with your cruise line.
• 🛍️Shopping & hours — Currency is the Brazilian real (BRL); cards are widely accepted.
• 🌤️Weather — Warm year-round; rainier from roughly April to July.
• 📶Connectivity — Good coverage in the city.
• ♿Accessibility — Promenades are accessible; beaches are sandy.
• ⏱️Getting back — Check tide times for the natural pools and allow for traffic.

Sources: visitbrasil.com; wikivoyage.org/wiki/Maceió