Maceió

Where to stay

Budget travelers cluster along the coastal strip, split between Ponta Verde and Jatiúca. Ponta Verde is the main hub for hostels, with a long promenade, cheap bars, and easy access to the airport. Jatiúca, just to the south, is quieter, more residential, and slightly further from the center but still walkable to the beach. The historic center (Centro) has a few cheaper options but is less convenient for beach access and nightlife.

Getting around

• Use Uber or 99Taxi for getting around, especially at night. Taxis are available but e-hailing apps are often cheaper and transparent. The bus system is limited and requires a specific card (Cartão Bem Legal) which can be difficult for short-term visitors to obtain.
• Maceió is a gateway to the northern beaches of Alagoas, like Maragogi and São Miguel dos Milagres. Vans and shared rides depart from the central bus station (Rodoviária) and are significantly cheaper than private tours. Book these in advance during peak season.
• The water is warm year-round, but the sun is intense. Bring strong sunscreen and a hat. Many hostels offer snorkeling gear for rent, but bringing your own mask and snorkel is more hygienic and often cheaper for multiple uses.

When to go

Cheapest from May to September, when the weather is slightly cooler and cloudier, though rain is more frequent. Prices spike during the Brazilian summer (December to March), especially around Carnival and New Year's, when domestic tourists flood the beaches.