Barreirinhas is the gateway to the breathtaking Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, a vast landscape of shifting white sand dunes and seasonal rainwater lagoons. The town offers a laid-back riverside atmosphere along the Preguiças River, making it the perfect base for adventure travelers. The best time to visit is between June and September when the lagoons are at their fullest and the weather is pleasant.
Top Things to Do in Barreirinhas
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Getting Around Barreirinhas
From the Airport
Shuttle/Transfer. Most travelers arrive via São Luís (SLB) and book a shared or private van transfer, which takes approximately 4 hours and costs between 100-200 BRL.
Once You're There
Walking. The central area of Barreirinhas is very walkable, with most shops, restaurants, and the riverfront accessible on foot. 4x4 Tours. To access the National Park and surrounding lagoons, you must book organized 4x4 tours, as private vehicles are not allowed and the terrain is impassable for standard cars.
Where to Stay in Barreirinhas
Hotel picks for Barreirinhas are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Barreirinhas
Restaurante Porto Preguiças★ 4.7 (2,272)Estrada do Carnaubal - Av. do Carnaubal, Barreirinhas - MA, 65590-000, BrazilOffers a stunning view of the river along with a refined menu that highlights regional ingredients like tucupi and shrimp.
Restaurante Bambaê★ 4.5 (2,761)Av. Paulista, S/N, Barreirinhas - MA, 65590-000, BrazilSet in a beautiful garden by the river, this spot is famous for its high-quality regional seafood and sophisticated atmosphere.
Restaurante do Edilson★ 4.5 (386)70297-400 - CAUB I - Núcleo Bandeirante, Brasília - DF, BrazilA hidden gem in the dunes area that specializes in traditional 'peixe na telha' served with local flair.
A Canoa★ 4.3 (4,958)Av. Beira Rio, Barreirinhas - MA, 65590-000, BrazilAn excellent choice for traditional Maranhão cuisine, featuring fresh catches from the nearby river and coast.
O Jacaré★ 4.3 (1,788)Av. Beira Rio, 2 - centro, Barreirinhas - MA, 65590-000, BrazilKnown for its authentic local fish dishes and prime location right on the Beira Rio boardwalk.
Sabores da Terra★ 4.2 (1,268)Av. Joaquim Soeiro de Carvalho, s/n - Centro, Barreirinhas - MA, 65590-000, BrazilA great place to try a variety of local delicacies in a buffet style that captures the essence of Maranhão cooking.
Restaurante do Sr. Antônio★ 4.0 (583)Barreirinhas - Maranhão, 65590-000, BrazilA must-visit in the dunes for simple, fresh, and incredibly flavorful grilled fish served in a rustic setting.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Barreirinhas
Dunes & Lagoons Exploration
Morning. Start your journey by heading deep into the Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses to witness the iconic Lagoa Bonita. You will need to book a 4x4 tour from the town center early to reach the base of the dunes, where a steep climb rewards you with the most famous panoramic view in the region. Spend the morning swimming in the crystal-clear, emerald-colored waters of the lagoon while the sun is still gentle. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the reflection of the sun on the white sand is incredibly intense. After soaking in the views, head back toward the park entrance to prepare for a transition to the next lagoon.
Afternoon. In the afternoon, your 4x4 driver will take you to the equally stunning Lagoa Azul, which is often easier to access but no less beautiful. This area is perfect for floating in the refreshing rainwater pools surrounded by endless white sand horizons. Take your time to walk along the ridges of the dunes to capture the perfect photograph of the undulating landscape. The wind here can be strong, so keep your camera gear protected in a dry bag. Afterward, head back to town to freshen up before the evening activities begin.
Evening. Wind down your day by strolling along the Beira Rio, the charming riverside boardwalk that serves as the heart of Barreirinhas. Enjoy the sunset over the Rio Preguiças while browsing the small craft stalls selling local hammocks and lace. The atmosphere is vibrant, with music spilling out from nearby bars and the scent of grilled fish filling the air. Find a seat at a riverside table to watch the boats dock for the night. Finish your evening with a relaxed dinner at a local establishment.
Preguiças River Adventure
Morning. Board a speed boat from the town docks to embark on a journey down the winding Rio Preguiças, a trip that offers a glimpse into the lush mangroves and local riverine life. Your first major stop is the village of Vassouras, where you can see the 'Pequenos Lençóis' and interact with the local capuchin monkeys. Spend about an hour here walking the dunes and grabbing a refreshing coconut water from a local vendor. The boat ride itself is an experience, as the captain navigates the calm, tea-colored waters toward the coast. Make sure to bring a hat and sunglasses, as the glare on the water is significant.
Afternoon. Continue your river journey until you reach the Farol de Mandacaru, a historic lighthouse situated in a small fishing village. Climb the narrow stairs to the top for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the river meeting the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding dunes. After your descent, wander through the quiet streets of the village, which are lined with colorful houses and local craft shops. From there, your boat will take you to the peninsula of Caburé, a thin strip of land between the river and the sea. Spend the afternoon lounging in a hammock or swimming in the ocean waves before heading back upriver.
Evening. Return to Barreirinhas as the sky turns orange and purple, reflecting beautifully on the surface of the river. The evening is the perfect time to explore the area surrounding the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, which provides a cultural anchor to the town center. The streets here become lively with locals gathering for social time after the heat of the day has dissipated. Take a walk through the central square to see the local architecture and enjoy the laid-back pace of life. Conclude your day with a hearty, traditional meal at a riverside restaurant.
Remote Lagoons & Cultural Immersion
Morning. Dedicate your final day to visiting the more remote Lagoa da Esperança, a unique lagoon formed by the damming of a river by the sand dunes. Unlike the seasonal lagoons, this one holds water year-round, offering a deeper, more permanent swimming experience. The journey by 4x4 through the rugged interior of the park is an adventure in itself, passing through sparse vegetation and shifting landscapes. Spend the morning exploring the edges of the lagoon and enjoying the relative solitude compared to the more popular sites. It is a fantastic spot for a quiet, meditative morning in nature.
Afternoon. In the afternoon, travel toward the rustic and bohemian village of Atins, located at the mouth of the river. This village feels like the edge of the world, with sandy streets and a strong kite-surfing culture. Walk along the beach to watch the colorful kites dancing in the wind and enjoy the raw, untamed beauty of the coastline. The pace here is intentionally slow, so take the opportunity to disconnect and just observe the unique ecosystem where the river meets the sea. It is an unforgettable way to see a different side of the region before returning to the main town.
Evening. For your final evening, head back to Barreirinhas for a farewell dinner. Take a final walk through the town to pick up any last-minute souvenirs, such as local cashew-based products or artisanal crafts. Reflect on your journey through the dunes while enjoying the cooler evening breeze coming off the water. The town center is perfect for a final stroll to soak in the local atmosphere one last time. Choose a restaurant that highlights the best of regional Maranhão flavors for a memorable end to your trip.