Top Rated Attractions in Natal

Pristine blue waters, clean white sands and picturesque views of the ocean is how Ponta Negra can be described. A neighborhood of Natal, as well as a beach, the Ponta Negra offers a plethora of activities for everyone to enjoy outdoors. The urban beach is full of small shacks, nightclubs, restaurants and flea shops. This place is perfect for a sunny summer afternoon. If you wish to hit the outdoors and soak up some sun, then head here. Just grab a beer and stroll down the sandy shore. Sample the local cuisine at the beachfront eateries and be awed by the beautiful sunset at dusk.

Spread over 1.172 hectares (2.9 acres), the Parque Das Dunas is one of the largest parks in the the region. The nature reserve was established in 1977 to conserve the sensitive ecosystem of the dunes in the region. The park is home to a spectacular variety of flora and fauna, and is of much interest to keen naturalists and botanists. The numerous interpretative trails on offer at the park are a good way to explore its rich natural diversity. Facilities at the park include a visitor center, a play area, a research center, a library as well as a restaurant. Opening hours vary. Check website or call ahead for more.

Situated on the mouth of the river Potengi and on the easternmost point of Brazil, the Forte de Reis Magos (also known as Three Wise Men Fort) is a magnificent star shaped monument built at the end of 16th Century by the Portuguese. The construction marked the beginning of the development of Natal, which was subsequently established 23 months later. The monument is separated from the coast of Natal by a sand bar and was built to serve as a strategic standoff for advances from Europe and African countries. Today, the place serves as a magnificent tourist attraction not just famous for its military history, but for the panoramic view of the surroundings.

Genipabu is one of the most picturesque locations on the Rio Grande do Norte coast. It features a freshwater lagoon and a maze of dunes that are best explored on a buggy ride. Pristine sand, clear water, and a beachfront of restaurants and hotels make it a popular check mark on tourist itineraries as well as that of locals. Get an adrenaline rush with esquibunda, where you can slide down the dunes.

Skirting a historic fishing village located on the banks of the river Potengi, Praia da Redinha is one of the most popular beaches in the city. The beach is as popular with the locals, as it is with tourists, and hence its a great place to get a feel of the local life. Besides soaking up the sun at the beach, the surrounding fishing village is an excellent place to sample local food (particularly seafood) and explore the city's history.

Managed by Natal's ABC Futebol Clube, Estádio Maria Lamas Farache is one of the largest stadiums in the city. Named after the club's former president's wife, this stadium was established in 2006. Popularly known as Frasqueirão, this stadium is used for football matches. However, Estádio Maria Lamas Farache's claim to fame has been its designation as the official training center for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. This stadium is located in Ponta Negra, close to hotels, restaurants and various tourist attractions, making it an ideal venue to watch a game.