Leão Beach (Praia do Leão) is a wide stretch of spongy sand with superb views of Fernando de Noronha’s dramatic landscapes. It sits on the quieter southern coastline of the island. Come to enjoy relaxed walks, spot nesting sea turtles, benefit from superb photography opportunities and visit a nearby ruined fortress. Leão Beach takes its name from the Portuguese word for lion, which is a reference to a rock shaped like a sea lion.
Being away from the main tourist center of the island, the beach is seldom crowded. Admire the pristine reddish sand, blue-green water and surrounding grass-covered hills. Gaze out to the two curious rock formations. Morro do Leão Island is the one that is said to resemble a sea lion. Morro da Viuvinha Island is a natural habitat for birdlife, most notably the endemic viuvinha.
Be sure to take a rejuvenating swim in the warm seawater. Bring snorkeling equipment for the chance to spot a dazzling array of coral reef and tropical fish. From January to June the beach is a popular hatching site for turtles, including the large green sea turtle. The Tamar Project, located in the Vila dos Remédios area, arranges free overnight conservation tours.
Above the eastern end of the bay is the Leão Beach Lookout. It offers a wonderful view that captures the beach, the islands and a hilly backdrop. From here it’s about 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) to the former São Joaquim do Sueste Fort. Count the half-buried cannons and look back to Sueste Beach.
Drive to the beach in just 15 minutes from Fernando de Noronha’s main village, Vila dos Remédios, and less than 10 minutes from the island’s airport. Public buses travel to Sueste Beach, from where it’s a 20-minute walk.
A fun way to get to Leão Beach is by rented bike or buggy. Parking is available at the lookout. Visit the island’s other beaches including Cacimba do Padre Beach, Conceição Beach and Sancho Beach.
