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Maragogi, In Alagoas, Brings Together Paradise Beaches, Billion-Dollar Investments, and Environmental Risk, Becoming the New Tourist and Real Estate Epicenter of the So-Called “Brazilian Caribbean”.
Maragogi, on the north coast of Alagoas, has established itself as one of Brazil’s most coveted destinations.
Known as the “Brazilian Caribbean,” the city combines paradise landscapes with growth characterized by high-end tourism and large investments.
Located 125 km from Maceió, Maragogi is famous for its crystal-clear waters, white sands, and coconut palms, highlighting the beaches of São Bento, Antunes, Barra Grande, Peroba, and Burgalhau.
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The natural pools – the “Galés” –, located about 6 km from the coast, attract visitors for snorkeling alongside coral reefs and colorful fish schools.
Tourism is the main driver of the local economy, generating around 6,000 direct jobs, according to Codevasf and the municipality of Maragogi.
In addition to sun and sea, the city offers trails in the Atlantic Forest, such as the Visgueiro Trail, and river circuits along the Maragogi and Salgado rivers.
Environmental Protection Area Houses Rich Biodiversity
Maragogi is part of the APA Costa dos Corais, the second largest coral barrier in the world, spanning 135 km and over 413,000 hectares protected.
The area encompasses ecosystems like restingas, mangroves, and reefs, created to preserve vital habitats such as that of the manatees.
Established in 1997, this conservation unit is managed by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio).
However, there are warning signs: between December 2023 and November 2024, shallow reefs suffered 80% to 90% mortality of corals due to bleaching.
The phenomenon, exacerbated by pollution and climate change, threatens local biodiversity, artisanal fishing, and tourism, which directly relies on the health of ecosystems.
Infrastructure Grows with a Focus on Tourism
To meet the growing demand, infrastructure works are progressing in the municipality.
A new regional airport, budgeted at R$ 400 million, has been under construction since 2021 and is expected to support the arrival of tourists, expanding visitation potential.
Additionally, five new hotels have been announced along the coast.
Road improvements have also been made through investments of R$ 23.95 million from Codevasf, focusing on tourism and agricultural development.
Neymar’s Billion-Dollar Investment Promises to Transform Maragogi
In recent years, large developers have turned their eyes to Maragogi and the surrounding area.
Due Incorporadora, in partnership with Neymar Sports – a company related to player Neymar Jr. – announced the “Rota Due Caribe Brasileiro” project, which includes 28 real estate developments until 2037.
The estimated total sales revenue (VGV) is up to R$ 7.5 billion.
The investment focuses not only on Maragogi but also on Japaratinga, Porto de Galinhas, and Carneiros.
The projects include compact studios and apartments with up to six bedrooms, with prices estimated between R$ 300,000 and R$ 6 million.
The strategy aims to attract a luxury audience, inspired by destinations like Porto de Galinhas, conveying exclusivity and comfort.
Local sources indicate that the agreement may involve investments of up to R$ 7 billion, with construction planned until 2037.
Neymar’s father has already acquired lots in a local condominium, reinforcing the commitment to the venture.
Development Brings Opportunities and Environmental Challenges
This scenario brings benefits and challenges.
On the one hand, the region may experience a multiplier effect, generating jobs, increasing real estate values, and boosting luxury tourism – especially after the completion of the airport.
The tourism growth has raised the Gross Added Value (VAB) per capita in Maragogi to around R$ 9,907, according to data from the Alagoas Tourism Secretariat as of March 2025.
However, increased traffic, real estate densification, and unregulated tourism increase pressure on marine ecosystems.
Coral bleaching and pollution require urgent environmental management actions to ensure the sustainability of the APA.
Maragogi Stands Out in National and International Tourism
Maragogi benefits from the surge in tourism in the Northeast. The north coast of Alagoas has been receiving national and foreign tourists, especially from Italy, the USA, Germany, and Argentina.
With improvements to the Maceió airport and the hotel sector, the city appears as the second tourist hub in the state, behind only the capital. Comparisons with the Caribbean highlight warm waters and paradise-like scenery.
Measures to Preserve the “Brazilian Caribbean”
In February 2025, the federal government expanded the APA Costa dos Corais. The action reinforces management, inspection, and protection mechanisms for sensitive areas.
Nevertheless, specialists warn: a sustainable routine is essential to prevent the region from becoming a “submerged cemetery.”
Maragogi maintains its prominence thanks to the mix of natural beauties – blue sea, reef pools, sandbanks – public investment in infrastructure, tourism growth, and now, high-end real estate megaprojects.
However, to perpetuate the name of “Brazilian Caribbean,” it will be necessary to balance economic progress with strict environmental preservation, especially of the fragile coral system.
Will Maragogi’s paradise endure the advance of luxury tourism and real estate pressure without compromising the ecosystem that made it globally sought after?
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