Family Adventure at Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Coastal Bliss and Artistic Alleys

Today was a delightful mix of tranquil coastal exploration and vibrant artistic discovery. Leaving behind the familiar dunes, we ventured towards the coast, seeking a different perspective on the beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses. It turned out to be a day filled with unexpected pleasures and charming encounters.

Our day began as always with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. Sophie and Émile were particularly enthusiastic about the fresh fruit and tapioca, a local staple that has quickly become a family favorite. After breakfast, we set off towards our first destination: Beco do Beijo.


Discover the romantic charm of Beco do Beijo, a hidden gem in Santo Amaro do Maranhão, near the stunning Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

Exploring Beco do Beijo

Beco do Beijo, or the Alley of Kisses, in Santo Amaro do Maranhão, was a vibrant splash of color and creativity. The narrow alleyway was adorned with murals and artistic expressions that captured the essence of local culture. Émile was particularly fascinated by the artwork, pointing out various details and asking Sophie and me about the stories behind them. I must admit, as a historian, I found myself equally captivated, appreciating the way the art reflected the spirit and history of the community. It reminded me of the murals back in Opelousas, each telling a story of the Cajun people.

We strolled leisurely through the alley, taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere. The name, Alley of Kisses, added a touch of romance to the experience, and I couldn't resist stealing a quick kiss from Sophie amidst the colorful backdrop. Émile, of course, found this hilarious, but it was a sweet moment that we all cherished.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in discovering new perspectives and connecting with different cultures.

Journey to Caburé

After our artistic interlude, we embarked on a journey to Caburé, a coastal village nestled between the Preguiças River and the Atlantic Ocean. The trip itself was an adventure, as we traveled by boat along the river, passing through lush mangroves and witnessing the unique ecosystem of the region. The anticipation was building as we approached this remote paradise. Sophie, ever the linguist, practiced her Portuguese with our guide, while Émile kept a watchful eye out for wildlife along the riverbanks.


Discover Caburé: A serene peninsula in Lençóis Maranhenses where the Preguiças River meets the Atlantic, offering pristine beaches and stunning dunes.

Seaside Serenity

Arriving in Caburé, we were greeted by a picturesque scene of swaying palm trees, golden sands, and the vast expanse of the ocean. The village exuded a sense of tranquility, a welcome contrast to the bustling tourist spots we had encountered earlier in our trip. We decided to spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Émile, with his boundless energy, immediately started building sandcastles, while Sophie and I took a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, collecting seashells and admiring the natural beauty.

The unique geography of Caburé allowed us to experience both the river and the sea. I took a refreshing dip in the Preguiças River, enjoying the cool, calm waters, before venturing into the ocean for a swim in the invigorating waves. Émile, of course, couldn't resist trying both, splashing between the river and the sea with pure joy. It was a unique opportunity to swim in both fresh and salt water within minutes of each other.

We spent the afternoon alternating between swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying each other's company. It was a perfect moment of family bonding, away from the distractions of modern life. I even managed to sneak in a bit of genealogy research, jotting down notes about my family history while basking in the sun. The only thing missing was my sunglasses and portable charger, which I had forgotten to pack. But even without them, the day was perfect.

Culinary Delights at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde

For all our meals today—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—we returned to the familiar comfort of Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. This charming eatery has become our go-to spot in the area, and we appreciate the warm hospitality and delicious, authentic Brazilian cuisine. The restaurant offers a true taste of local flavors, and we savored every dish, from the fresh seafood to the traditional rice and beans. Émile, surprisingly, developed a fondness for the local fish, devouring it with gusto.

As the sun began to set, we gathered at Bar Sol e Mar for a refreshing drink and to watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. Sipping on a caipirinha, I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. The live music added to the festive atmosphere, and we even managed to coax Émile into a little dance, much to Sophie's amusement. I even tried my hand at playing the accordion, much to the amusement of Sophie and Émile. It wasn't exactly Cajun music, but it was close enough.


Experience the essence of Barreirinhas at Bar Sol e Mar, your go-to spot for refreshing drinks and a cozy atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

As we head back to our guesthouse, the anticipation for tomorrow is palpable. We’re planning to visit Lagoa Alaris and Lagoa do Cassó. I’ve heard Lagoa do Cassó is particularly special, being surrounded by lush vegetation, and I'm eager to see it for myself. Émile is already dreaming of swimming in the lagoons, and Sophie is looking forward to capturing the landscapes through her photography. We might even stop by Tj Mix Confecções, Calçados to pick up some souvenirs.

Caburé offered a serene escape from the more crowded tourist spots, allowing us to connect with nature and each other. And Beco do Beijo offered a glimpse into the soul of Santo Amaro, reminding us of the importance of art and community. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we have shared and the memories we have created. The blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion has made this trip truly unforgettable, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow promises more adventure, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

Until next time,
David