Praia da Arruda

At low tide, the sea pulls back and reveals what it had been keeping: coral formations, pools of still water between one rock and the next, the sand still damp underfoot. Arruda is small, and this is when it shows the most of what it has. You reach it on foot, by a short walk from Jeribucaçu, and what waits at the end is a strip of sand that few visitors explore.

The way out, to the left

Arruda lies within the Jeribucaçu area and has no access of its own: the path starts at the neighboring beach. Once you're at Jeribucaçu, follow the trail to the left. It's about a 15-minute walk, enough time to feel you've changed beaches without ever leaving the place.

Since this stretch is on foot, the visit calls for simple planning. Bring footwear that can handle a walk, plus whatever you'll drink and eat from the start, and remember that the way back is along the same path.

Corals and natural pools

The reason to come is the tide. When it's low, coral formations and natural pools appear, and the beach takes on a different shape: less strip of sand, more rock, more still water, more to look at up close. It's the time to walk slowly, observe, and leave the place as you found it.

Since the listing gives no tide times, it's worth checking the day's tide table before setting out. At high tide the pools don't appear, and expectations change.

Small, and little visited

The strip of sand is small and little explored. That defines Arruda's character: there is no kiosk, beach stand or any facilities, and you don't come here looking for service. You come for a quiet beach of modest size, which most people passing through Jeribucaçu never get to know.

Those who prefer to go with company will find Arruda included in a guided tour that combines Jeribucaçu, Arruda and Cachoeira da Usina. It lasts 9 hours and cost R$ 170 in February 2025, a price that should be checked before booking.

Who it's for

For those who like walking a little beyond the main beach and are interested in low tide, corals and natural pools. For those who accept having no facilities and bring with them what they'll need. It's not the choice for anyone who wants comfort, a beach stand nearby or an effortless beach day. Those looking for a long stretch of sand may also be disappointed: Arruda is small by nature.

Practical info

• Getting there: on foot, from Praia de Jeribucaçu, heading left.
• Trail: 15-minute walk from Jeribucaçu.
• Facilities: none.
• Best time: low tide, when coral formations and natural pools appear.
• Guided tour: Jeribucaçu + Arruda + Cachoeira da Usina, 9 hours, R$ 170 in February 2025.
• What to bring: since there are no facilities, water, food and a bag to carry your trash back out.