Safety · Destination Guide
Low-tide natural pools, warm reefs, and easy boat access on Brazil's Coral Coast
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 14 sources
Maragogi's reefs are fragile and heavily visited, so safety and conservation are tightly linked: follow the briefing, stay inside buoyed zones, and never stand on coral.
Maragogi is a small town. For serious issues, evacuation to Maceio or Recife may be required. In a suspected decompression illness case: administer oxygen if available, call local emergency services, and contact DAN for medical coordination. Hyperbaric medicine services exist in regional capitals, but availability and protocols vary, so rely on your operator's emergency action plan.
Coral cuts and urchins
Natural pools are shallow. Wear protective footwear for boat entries and keep your body off coral. Small cuts can get infected in warm water.
Boat and propeller traffic
Peak tide windows concentrate boats. Stay inside briefing boundaries, surface slowly, and use an SMB or float as recommended.
Current in channels during tide changes
Channels can move water quickly as the tide fills or drains. Plan sessions near slack tide and follow guide instructions.
Sun and heat load
You are in the tropics year-round. Use reef-safe sunscreen, hydrate, and add shade breaks, especially in Dec to Mar.
Do Not Do This
Avoid entering when coral cuts and urchins. Confirm local briefings before committing.
| Contact | Role | Phone | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAMU | Ambulance (medical emergency) | 192 | 24/7 |
| Policia Militar | Police emergency | 190 | 24/7 |
| Corpo de Bombeiros | Fire and rescue | 193 | 24/7 |
| Marinha do Brasil | Maritime and river emergencies (Salvamar) | 185 | 24/7 |
| DAN World | Diving medical emergency hotline (Portuguese option available) | +55-11-3042-1157 or +1-919-684-9111 | 24/7 |