dventure comes in many forms. Some travelers seek pristine powder on snowy slopes, while others hunt for the perfect surf break. Then there are those who tether themselves to a 30-foot kite, gliding across the waves in pursuit of the ultimate moment to catch the wind—a sensation that is challenging to encapsulate in words. I arrive in Fortaleza, the vibrant capital of Ceará, just as the sun begins its descent on a Friday evening. A four-hour drive—280 kilometers west—takes me to Prea, a sleepy fishing village that has transformed into a kitesurfing haven situated at the eastern edge of Jericoacoara National Park. From July to January, this region boasts consistently strong winds, ranging from 20 to 30 knots, setting the stage for unforgettable sessions on the water.
Perhaps the crown jewel of this region is the wind itself. Renowned for some of the most reliable and intense wind conditions globally, Prea stands out as a premier kitesurfing destination.
Brazil’s northeast coast, once celebrated as one of the world’s most coveted coastlines, possesses a rich and storied history. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, French, Dutch, and Portuguese colonizers flocked to this area, enticed by tales of gold and fertile lands perfect for cultivating sugar cane, cacao, tobacco, cotton, and coffee. The northeast trade winds allowed ships to traverse the Atlantic in just six weeks, charting their course to these shores.
Geographically, Brazil’s northeastern states—Ceará, Piauí, and Maranhão—stretch horizontally across the country’s shoulder, each bordering the warm Atlantic just south of the equator. This region features a semi-arid climate, receiving less than 700 millimeters of rainfall each year, yet it is interspersed with lush tropical deltas, winding rivers, and endless, pristine beaches.
Perhaps the crown jewel of this region is the wind itself. Renowned for some of the most reliable and intense wind conditions globally, Prea stands out as a premier kitesurfing destination. The unique dune landscape enhances wind speed, delivering an unparalleled kiting experience. Stretching an impressive 15 miles along an impressive coastline, Prea beautifully merges adventure with the laid-back vibe of Jericoacoara National Park.
Access to this paradise is convenient, whether by flying into the nearby airport in “Jeri” or driving from Fortaleza, which offers direct flights to a few European cities. Here, the air buzzes with the rhythms of capoeira, the enticing aroma of caipirinhas wafts through the atmosphere, and sunsets paint the beachfront dunes in warm, golden hues.
“Kiters come from all over the world to find wind like ours,” a local tells me, reflecting the thriving kitesurfing community. “In high season, you can see 1,000 kites in the sky.” The rise of kitesurfing is transforming the local tourism landscape in one of Brazil’s most impoverished states. Upon returning to Prea a decade after my first visit, I notice a blend of the old and the new. Fishermen continue to labor on the beaches with traditional nets and boats, just as their ancestors did a century ago, yet modern shops, pousadas, and restaurants now line the coastline.
Practical Information
| Destination | Preá & Jericoacoara, Ceará, Brazil |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | July to January — the northeast trade winds blow consistently at 20–30 knots, making this one of the most reliable kitesurfing windows on earth. December and January bring the biggest Atlantic swell. Outside wind season (February–June), the region is quieter and greener after the rains. |
| Getting there | Fly into Jericoacoara airport (JJD), which has direct connections from São Paulo and other Brazilian cities. Alternatively, fly to Fortaleza (FOR) and drive 280km west (around 4 hours). Preá is 12km east of Jericoacoara — transfers can be arranged through your pousada. |
| Where to stay | Rancho do Peixe — Preá's standout address, set on 67,000m² of beachfront with thatched bungalows built entirely from local natural materials. Home to WSC Brasil, a full kitesurf, wingfoil, windsurf, and SUP school and centre on site. No TVs in the rooms — the wind and ocean are the entertainment. Winner of Condé Nast Johansens Best Immersive Experience 2021. |
| Currency | Brazilian Real (BRL). |
| Language | Portuguese. Very little English spoken in the village — a few words go a long way. |
| Visa | Brazilian eVisa required for most nationalities (US, Australian, Canadian). EU citizens currently enter visa-free. Apply at gov.br/mre at least 2 weeks before travel. |
| Notes | Preá is quieter and less developed than Jericoacoara — ideal if you want wind sports without the party scene. A daily free shuttle from Rancho do Peixe connects to Jeri for those wanting to explore. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a good windproof layer for evening, and cash — ATMs are limited and unreliable in the village. |
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