Atins: Between the river and the sea, in the Lençóis Maranhenses.

After visiting Santo Amaro and Barreirinhas, the natural next destination is Atins.

Although it’s one of the bases for exploring the Lençóis Maranhenses, Atins has its own unique vibe.

Atins is a small, quiet, and charming village, belonging to Barreirinhas and located within the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. There, time seems to slow down, the wind blows unhurriedly, and nature dictates the rhythm of the days. It’s as if the clock simply ceases to exist.

The adventure of getting to Atins

Getting to Atins is, in itself, a delightful adventure. The journey begins with mesmerizing landscapes. I left Barreirinhas by boat on the Preguiças River, sailing for about an hour if going directly. I took a tour with stops in villages like Vassouras and Mandacaru, and each stop revealed a little piece of the most authentic Maranhão.

The wind on my face, the sun reflecting on the water, and the green of the banks created a feeling of peace difficult to describe. And then, as the boat began to approach Atins beach, the scenery changed completely. The white dunes began to appear, the sea turned greenish, and, among the coconut trees, the village emerged. It was impossible not to smile.

The unique vibe of Atins

Atins has something magical about it. The streets are made of soft sand, the houses are simple and colorful, and the atmosphere is one of pure tranquility. There’s no rush, no honking horns, no crowds. Only the sound of the wind, the waves, and the birds. Walking around there is feeling time pass in a different way, lighter and more genuine.

The village still maintains that rustic and authentic air that reminds me of the most genuine destinations in the Northeast of Brazil. Everything is simple, but made with care. The residents are welcoming, always ready for a conversation. It’s the kind of place where luxury lies in nature and simple experiences—like watching the sunset paint the dunes with color or listening to the sound of the sea at night.

Atins and its untamed nature

Besides being charming, Atins is perfect for those who love nature and adventure. The village is known worldwide for kitesurfing, and for good reason. The constant wind and warm, shallow waters create an ideal setting for the sport. During the months of June to December, the place transforms into a meeting point for kitesurfers from all over the world.

But Atins isn’t just for those seeking adrenaline.

There are tours to walk through the dunes, swim in the crystal-clear lagoons, and explore the park in 4×4 vehicles. Lagoa da Capivara and Lagoa Verde are two of the most beautiful.

Flavors of Atins

After a day exploring the region, nothing beats savoring the local cuisine. And Atins surprises in this respect. Luzia’s restaurant is almost a legend; her grilled shrimp is simply divine! Right next door, Antônio’s restaurant is also unmissable, with generous and flavorful dishes.

At night, the village takes on a soft glow. The guesthouses and restaurants are illuminated with yellowish lamps, creating a cozy atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you sit down, have a cold drink, and let the conversation flow without haste.