Today’s destination is Tutóia — a city in the state of Maranhão, rich in natural beauty and filled with spectacular attractions. Located along the Maranhão coastline, Tutóia is part of the Parnaíba River Delta Environmental Protection Area (APA Delta do Parnaíba). Travelers who are in Barra Grande (PI) and planning a trip to Lençóis Maranhenses should definitely include Tutóia in their itinerary. Today, you will discover the attractions that make this small paradise city so special.
Pequenos Lençóis:
Pequenos Lençóis are located between the municipalities of Tutóia and Paulino Neves, in the state of Maranhão. The area is formed by extensive dune fields and a coastal shoreline, and is often seen as a smaller-scale preview of the famous Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
With both large and small dunes ranging from 12 to 30 meters in height, and freshwater lagoons nestled between them — whose waters vary between shades of green and blue — Pequenos Lençóis create a landscape of endless and unforgettable beauty. Upon arriving in Tutóia, visitors can already admire the impressive dunes rising in the background.
Arpoador and Praia do Amor:
The village of Arpoador is part of the municipality of Tutóia, and access is only possible when the tide is low enough for vehicles to pass. The village is known for its warm and welcoming community and for offering what can be described as a true oasis, made up of dunes, lagoons, and towering coconut trees that create a hidden natural sanctuary.
Nearby, Praia do Amor (Love Beach) is a secluded and unspoiled beach that features a surreal landscape, marked by ancient mangrove roots that are gradually being uncovered by the tides, creating a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
Praia da Barra:
Praia da Barra, one of the main beaches in Tutóia, is practically located in the city’s “backyard,” just a few meters from the downtown area. This beach turns every late afternoon into a breathtaking natural spectacle, with a beautiful sunset reflected across the sea and the surrounding dunes. During the rainy season, large lagoons form between the dunes of Praia da Barra, further enchanting those who visit.
Praia da Andreza:
Praia da Andreza is the calmest spot of Tutóia’s coastline. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a shipwreck resting right in the middle of the beach, making the scenery even more intriguing. Formerly known as Aline Ramos, the ship was a cargo vessel that ran aground along the shore and remains there to this day. When the tide is low, it is possible to walk up to the ship and observe it up close.
How to Get There:
All the attractions mentioned above are freely accessible. However, for those who prefer added safety and convenience, Grupo Baluarte offers a variety of guided tours within the APA of Pequenos Lençóis as well as to the Parnaíba River Delta. Tutóia is part of Rota das Emoções, so travelers coming from Barra Grande (PI) will need a transfer from Barra Grande to Parnaíba (PI). From Parnaíba, it is possible to take an intercity bus operated by Grupo Rota do Mar, which runs Monday through Saturday, departing from the Parnaíba bus terminal at either 6:00 a.m. or 5:00 p.m. Individual tickets cost approximately R$25, and the journey takes around three hours to reach Tutóia.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp at +55 (86) 9 8806-0007, by email at contato@hospedagembarragrandepi.com.br, or on Instagram @hospedagembarragrandepi
Photos: @matheusolidesign; tripadvisor; superfotos; comerdormirviajar; viagenscinematograficas; rotadasemoções; Viagens Cine.
Text: Matheus Oliveira
Supervision: Janaina Araujo