In 1650, the Portuguese sailer Francisco Ayres da Cunha accidentally stumbled upon Canoe Quebrada when his ship was forced ashore for repairs. Upon coming ashore he found a intriguing little fishing village full of friendly people.
This little fishing village only became readily accessible to the outside world in 1995, when road leading here were paved. Prior to this, the area was a haven for the bohemian / unconventional travel crowd (hippies, backpackers, independent film makers) who didn’t mind the rough trip or staying in the homes of the local fisherman.
Some loved the area so much that they stayed and are now very much a part of the community. You can see the external influence in a few of the beach huts / bars that line the beach.
Recently there’s been concern about the impact that the influx of tourists and increase in extreme sports has had on the area and species that exist only in Canoa Quebrada. Windmills also now dot the once pristine landscape.
The wind power footprint along Brazil’s coastlines has increased significantly in the last few years. Hydro-power is a prevalent energy source, however this is impacted during drought or low rainfall times. Wind power allows the country to hedge this risk.
Regardless, the beaches of Canoa Quebrada are still remarkably untouched and when you wander away from the tourist shacks there’s still very much a fishing community vibe. Kids play soccer on the beach and fisherman wave as you wander by.
