Cabo de Santo Agostinho Picture 6

More information on Gaibu - Cabo de Santo Agostinho Photo by: Nathalia Verony

Full of ecological reserves and wetlands, Cape St. Augustine has some of the most celebrated beaches in the country, such as Gaibu, Calhetas and Paradise. There are many options for those seeking water activities or simply looking to just relax on the sunny beaches. During the summer, hotels and hostels receive many tourists from all around the world, making this a fairly busy tourist destination, and a great over place to visit.

As for the hotels and general infrastructure around this area, tourists can rest easy, there are several hotels, including international chains, numerous bars, restaurants and marinas.
Cabo de Santo Agostinho is part of the Route of History, which encompasses several other towns of Perbnambuco, and which offer visitors a glimpse into the rich historical past of this area.

Besides the beautiful beaches, there are several historical monuments that are worth visiting, including the old Mill Massangana which is a major attraction for the city.  Other popular spots to visit, include the Church of Our Lady of Nazareth and the ruins of the Carmelite convent, dating from the late sixteenth century, and the Castle of the Sea Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1631 with granite from the municipality of Cape Town, to protect the area from the Dutch.  At several viewpoints around the city, it's possible to admire the natural beauty of this place.  Make sure you give yourself enough time to visit all of the history of this wonderful area.

For those looking for souvenirs, there is a large production of ceramics in the area, and pieces can be found in the Mercadão where typical crafts of northeastern culture are produced.

The city has several festivals that are celebrated each year, including the Feast of the Washerwoman, which takes place on May 1st and is held on the beach of Paiva.  The festival is one of the largest demonstrations of popular culture of the people of Pernambuco.  The event, which began simply as a meeting of fishermen, today brings together thousands of people on the beach of Paiva.  If you are in the area during this event, make sure to make your way down to the beach to partake in the event.   The feast of the hedgehog is another typical event for this region and is based on religious superstitions of fishermen in the area.  The hedgehog is also one of the typical dishes of the city, so be be prepared to try a few unusual dishes while in the area.

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