Natal is a coastal city in Brazil's northeast, where the urban edge meets dunes, river mouths and open Atlantic beaches. For a visitor, the practical question is not what to see but where to sleep, because the city spreads out and the character of each district is quite different.
Natal is divided into four broad districts: South, East, North and West. Most tourist lodgings sit in the South, the East holds the Historical Center and the main sights, the North is industrial and working class, and the West is mostly residential and run-down, though it contains the intercity bus terminal. This guide covers which of these areas to base yourself in, and what kind of accommodation you will find at each budget level.
Best areas to stay in Natal
1. South (Ponta Negra)
The South is the most affluent part of the city and the area where most tourists stay. It contains Ponta Negra beach as well as most of the upscale hotels, shopping malls and restaurants, so you can eat, shop and reach the sand without crossing town.
This is the natural choice for first-time visitors and for anyone who wants the beach and tourist services within walking distance. Most tourist lodgings in Natal are in Ponta Negra, and posted prices are negotiable in low season. The trade-off is that the Historical Center and the eastern sights are a separate trip rather than a short walk.
2. East
The East contains the city's Historical Center and important sights such as Forte dos Reis Magos and Ponte de Todos. Its beaches, including Praia do Meio and Praia dos Artistas, mix visitors and locals, and the entrance to Parque das Dunas is also here.
Stay in the East if you want to be close to the historic sights and the dune park rather than to the main tourist strip. It suits travellers who prefer a more everyday city atmosphere and are happy to travel to Ponta Negra for its restaurants and nightlife.
3. North
The North is an industrial and working-class area, now the most populous part of Natal. It contains Redinha beach, which offers views back towards the city and has a very local feel.
This area suits travellers who want a local atmosphere and are not concerned with being near the main tourist facilities. Expect fewer lodgings aimed at visitors and plan on travelling to the South or East for the principal sights.
4. West
The West is a mostly poor and in some parts run-down area. Its main practical value to a visitor is the intercity bus terminal, which can be used to reach other cities such as Tibau do Sul.
Base here only if an early departure or a late arrival by intercity bus matters more to you than proximity to the beaches and sights. It is not a tourist area and offers little for a beach holiday.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Hostels with dorm beds, some with air conditioning and breakfast included, generally in Ponta Negra within a short walk of the beach. A supermarket may be nearby, and some places charge a fee for paying by credit card.
- Mid-range: Small pousadas, including ones a short block from the beach, some with a balcony breakfast and a view.
- Splurge: Upscale hotels and beach resorts, concentrated in Ponta Negra and along Via Costeira.
Best area for a first visit
Choose the South, and specifically Ponta Negra, for a first visit. It is where most tourists stay and where most of the city's lodgings, restaurants, shopping malls and upscale hotels are found, with the beach itself in the same district. You can settle in, walk to the sand and arrange trips to the Historical Center and the eastern sights from there.
Frequently asked questions
Which area of Natal has the most tourist accommodation?
Ponta Negra, in the South district, where most tourist lodgings are found.
Are prices for accommodation fixed?
Posted prices are negotiable in low season.
Where do I stay if I need the intercity bus terminal?
The West district contains the intercity bus terminal, used to reach other cities such as Tibau do Sul.
Which area is closest to the Historical Center and Forte dos Reis Magos?
The East district, which also holds Praia do Meio, Praia dos Artistas and the entrance to Parque das Dunas.
Compare live prices for the area you have chosen using the booking tools on this page.