Lagoa do Portinho Lagoon, Parnaíba (PI)
Lagoa do Portinho is a lagoon located between the cities of Parnaíba and Luís Correia. With its dark and calm waters, the lagoon is surrounded by dunes that, in contrast with the native vegetation, create a lush and striking landscape. Considered a natural monument by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) due to its high ecological value and the presence of rare fauna and flora species, the area was designated as an Area of Relevant Ecological Interest (ARIE) — a sustainable-use Conservation Unit whose purpose is to preserve ecosystems while regulating land use and balancing development with environmental conservation.
Photos: @odrianocarvalho
Renowned for its scenic beauty, the lagoon is fed by the Portinho and Brandão streams, which keep it full throughout the year. Surrounded by stories and legends, the lagoon sparks visitors’ curiosity, as there is a local tale about its origin. According to legend, Lagoa do Portinho was formed from a natural spring combined with the tears shed by Macyrajara, a young woman heartbroken by the death of her beloved, Ubitã.
Photos: @freitas_santos/@lagoadoportinho
With dunes of various sizes and shapes, the lagoon area offers spectacular views from every angle. It is no coincidence that the site has served as a setting for Brazilian soap operas and music videos. Covering approximately 3,731.79 hectares, it is one of the most beautiful places in Piauí, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets that make the soft morning light and golden late-afternoon glow even more enchanting.
Photos:@freitas_santos
So, are you ready to discover and fall in love with one of Piauí’s most iconic natural landmarks? Check out the tips below:
What to Do at Lagoa do Portinho
There are plenty of attractions to enjoy and admire the lagoon even more, such as fun banana boat rides, speedboat tours, or peaceful walks through the dunes. Visitors can also savor local cuisine at bars and restaurants, often accompanied by live forró music on weekends — all at affordable prices. Lagoa do Portinho is an ideal destination that combines leisure and infrastructure and is also considered a paradise for practicing sports such as windsurfing.
Photos: Fco M Souza Junior /@lagoadoportinho
How to Get to Lagoa do Portinho?
Lagoa do Portinho is located on the border between the cities of Parnaíba and Luís Correia. If you are already in Barra Grande, Cajueiro da Praia, the best option is to travel by land via BR-402, which takes approximately 59 minutes and covers 64 km. Alternatively, you can take PI-116, with a travel time of about 1 hour and 13 minutes, totaling 68.6 km. Please note that there is no entrance fee to visit the lagoon.
Come and discover this unforgettable landscape — and don’t forget to always wear sunscreen, stay well hydrated, choose lightweight clothing, and dispose of waste properly when visiting our coastline. To ensure comfortable and safe accommodation, simply contact us via WhatsApp at +55 (86) 9 8806-0007, through our Instagram profile @hospedagembarragrandepi or via our main website.
Text: Brenda Costa
Translated by: Julia Pereira
Revision: Janaina Araujo