The capital of Alagoas, is relaxed modern city, and its beaches are enchanting with calm and emerald waters.

In addition to beaches, it has a modern feeling, apart from small historical area in the commerical center, such as buildings dating back to previous centuries, in particular, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Pleasures, 1840; the Deodoro Theatre, the Municipal Market, the Historical Institute Museum and the Floriano Peixoto Palace housing the State government headquarters.

Praia de Pajucara is one of the best place to hang around, a

nd it's midway between the city center and the other beaches. You will find jangadas (local sailing boats) that will take you to out about 2 miles to the reef, where you can swim in the "natural swimming pool" and observe the marine life.

Praia do Frances is only 15 miles south of Maceio, this is a popular weekend beach that is being rapidly developed. The beach is lined with bars and the ocean is lined with reefs. At one end, the water is calm and better for wading than swimming while at the other end there is usually surf. It is a very social beach on weekends, with plenty of drinking, seaffod, soccer and music.