Meireles Beach (Praia do Meireles)
The basics
Meireles Beach is a popular spot for morning joggers, and in the evenings, it’s surrounded by the famous Feirinha de Artesanato (Artisan Fair) where vendors sell locally made crafts and textiles. It’s a great place to pick up Fortaleza embroidered lace. The city’s fish market is also nearby. While the beach doesn’t often feature on organized tours of Fortaleza, it’s well worth a visit on your own, especially if you’re already in the area enjoying the middle-class neighborhood’s other draws.
Things to know before you go
- Meireles Beach is one of the best spots in town for souvenir shopping.
- Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
- While nice for a seaside stroll, the water here generally isn’t clean enough for swimming.
How to get there
Meireles Beach is just east of the city center in a neighborhood of the same name. If you’re not already within walking distance, plan to get there by rideshare or taxi.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The best time to visit this stretch of sand is in the evening (6pm to late) when the artisan fair takes place. It’s also popular early in the morning for outdoor recreation before it gets too hot.
Best Beaches of Fortaleza
Visitors to Fortaleza have their choice of beaches to relax on. Iracema Beach, perhaps the most famous, features a nice boardwalk and numerous bars that create somewhat of a seaside party zone in the evenings. Head to Mucuripe Beach to see the sails of traditional fishing jangadas flapping in the wind, or make your way to Futuro Beach for swimming and surfing.
- Fortaleza Central Market (Mercado Central de Fortaleza)
- Nossa Senhora de Assuncao Fort
- Metropolitan Cathedral
- Museum of Ceara (Museu do Ceará)
- Ceará Tourism Center (Emcetur)
- José de Alencar Theater (Theatro José de Alencar)
- Futuro Beach (Praia do Futuro)
- Fortaleza Beach Park
- Cumbuco Beach
- Morro Branco
- Trails Park (Parque das Trilhas)
- Lagoinha Beach (Praia de Lagoinha)
- Canoa Quebrada