not far, across from the lagoa de guarapina, praia de ponta negra (black point) is 5 kilometers long and also famous for the beautiful sands and clean waters - favorite spot for surfers in the region.

the beach ponta negra is a natural landmark, and it holds historical significance as the debate still lingers as to whether it was named for its dark, or black cliff face, or because it was where the african slaves were disembarked - just a short distance away from this well-known bathing area is a historic lighthouse, which offers one of the best viewpoints in maricá.   

praia de araçatiba, only 200 meters in length, and is an alternative to the many oceanic beaches in maricá, as it offers calm, warm waters, and it is home to the a cruz do padre josé de anchieta, a cross in homage to the important jesuit josé de anchieta.