Praia do Calhau
São Luís's most popular city beach, where the firm sand exposed at low tide stretches hundreds of meters, ideal for walking and cycling, with beach bars lining the shore.
Praia do Calhau is on the north coast of the island, about 10 km from the old town. The tidal range here is very large, reaching 6 to 7 meters. At low tide, a wide, flat expanse of hard sand is exposed, and locals run, play football, and ride bicycles here. At high tide, the waves are stronger. Along the promenade, numerous beach bars serve crab, fried fish, and the local Guaraná Jesus soda. The evening is a great time to watch the sunset and enjoy an ice-cold beer. Check the tide schedule, and do not linger on the sand at night.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Ponta d'Areia Beach
- Lagoa da Jansen
- Praia do Araçagi
- Museu Histórico e Artístico do Maranhão
- Fonte do Ribeirão
- Teatro Arthur Azevedo
- Cathedral of São Luís
- Igreja do Carmo