The "Galés" of Maragogi are natural pools that form over a coral reef about 6 km offshore, emerging only when the tide drops low enough. The star attraction of the Costa dos Corais — Brazil's own "Caribbean" — these shallow, warm pools (26–28°C, 1–4 m deep) let snorkelers float above living coral and shoals of colorful reef fish, with sea turtles sometimes passing through. On clear days visibility reaches 10–20 m. As of 2026 the whole area sits inside the APA Costa dos Corais, Brazil's largest marine protected area (managed by ICMBio), so daily visitor numbers and access are tightly controlled by the tide table.
The "Galés" reef pools, revealed only at low tide, reached by a 20–30 min catamaran or boat ride
Shallow, calm, bath-warm water — easy float snorkeling with a mandatory life vest
Living coral, small reef formations and clouds of vivid tropical fish
Water clarity of 10–20 m on sunny, low-tide days
Peak conditions in the Sept–March dry season, when the sea is calmest and clearest
Good to know
SafetyThe pools sit about 6 km out at sea; outside the shallows there are currents and deeper channels. Beginners must wear the life vest and stay near the guide, boat and marker buoys — never swim off alone toward open water.
SafetyCatamarans, tour boats and jet skis move through the area, so keep clear of boat lanes. If your mask fogs or you start to panic, rest on your vest, breathe slowly and signal your guide rather than thrashing.
SafetyBrushing against coral or sea urchins can cause cuts and stings, so don't stand or step on the reef and keep hands and fins off it. The equatorial sun is strong over open water — wear a rash guard and stay hydrated on the longer stops.
RulesUnder APA Costa dos Corais rules, access is allowed only at low tide (around 0.6 m or below) and daily visitor numbers are capped. Touching or collecting coral and marine life is prohibited, and reef-safe (biodegradable) sunscreen is expected.
MannersLiving coral can die from a single touch, so never stand on it; keep your distance from turtles and other wildlife and never feed them.
SeasonSeptember to March is the dry season, with the calmest and clearest water. Because trips depend entirely on the tide, roughly ten days a month have no tours at all — always check the tide table and sailing status before you go.
CautionUnlicensed "clandestino" tours may skip safety and conservation rules, so book a properly ICMBio-authorized operator, and confirm any extra charges (photos, drinks, gear rental) up front.
Practical info
Maragogi is about 1.5–2 hours by road from Recife or Maceió airports, and the Galés tour leaves from the town beach by catamaran or speedboat, roughly 20–30 minutes each way. Departure times shift daily to match low tide (generally between 6 and 11 a.m.), and fares, schedules and gear rental vary by season and tide, so confirm the latest details when you book.
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