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Most of Natal’s hotels cluster in three zones: Ponta Negra for beach access and nightlife, Via Costeira for all-inclusive resorts, and the centre and Lagoa Nova for budget and business stays. This where to stay in Natal guide lists three hotels in each area, with a luxury, mid-range and budget pick where possible. For when to book, see the best time to visit Natal guide, and the Natal travel guide covers the rest of your planning.
Where to Stay in Natal: Ponta Negra
Ponta Negra is the default choice for first-time visitors. You are a short walk from the beach, the Morro do Careca viewpoint and the bar strip on Rua Erivan França, and you have the widest range of restaurants in the city, close to most of the things to do in Natal.
Suggested Hotels in Ponta Negra
Manary Praia Hotel
A boutique beachfront hotel set directly on the sands of Ponta Negra, with neo-colonial architecture, an oceanfront pool and a well-regarded restaurant. Best for couples who want a quiet, upscale stay right on the beach. Check rates and availability
Praiamar Natal Hotel & Convention
A large hotel 40 metres from Ponta Negra beach with multiple pools, a rooftop terrace and its own convention centre. Best for families and groups who want resort facilities at a mid-range price. Check rates and availability
Visual Praia Hotel
A three-star hotel a few minutes’ walk from Ponta Negra with three pools, a wet bar and balconied rooms. Best for budget-conscious travellers who still want a pool and a short walk to the beach. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Natal: Via Costeira
Via Costeira is the resort strip between the dunes and the sea. These properties run on an all-inclusive model, so the nightly rate covers meals, drinks and activities, and you will rarely need to leave the hotel. It is the best choice if your main plan is beach time in the sunniest months, detailed in the Natal weather by month guide.
Suggested Hotels in Via Costeira
Ocean Palace All Inclusive Premium
A beachfront all-inclusive with 14 pools, 5 restaurants, a spa and a gym, set on the sands between Ponta Negra and the city. Best for travellers who want a full-board resort with no need to plan meals or outings. Check rates and availability
Serhs Natal Grand Hotel & Resort
A beachfront resort with 4 swimming pools, 6 restaurants and 3 bars, located between Ponta Negra and Areia Preta beaches. Best for families and groups who want variety in dining and entertainment on site. Check rates and availability
Wish Natal
A pyramid-shaped beachfront resort on Via Costeira with pools beside the sand, a kids’ club and views over the dunes to Morro do Careca. Best for all-inclusive stays with a strong family focus. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Natal: Centro and Lagoa Nova
For lower prices or a base near the Arena das Dunas stadium and the shopping malls, look to the historic centre, Praia dos Artistas and the Lagoa Nova business district. This is also the most practical zone if you are in town for the events and festivals in Natal held around the stadium.
Suggested Hotels in Centro and Lagoa Nova
Holiday Inn Natal
An IHG hotel in the Lagoa Nova district, a short walk from the Arena das Dunas stadium and the Midway Mall, with a rooftop pool and gym. Best for event-goers and business travellers who want a dependable chain stay. Check rates and availability
Natal Praia Hotel
A budget hotel 50 metres from Praia dos Artistas, with sea-view rooms, an outdoor pool and free parking. Best for budget travellers who want beach access near the historic centre. Check rates and availability
Hotel Água Marinha
A simple hotel near the Parque das Dunas with a rooftop pool and views over the city, about 1.5km from Ponta Negra. Best for low-cost stays with a pool and free parking. Check rates and availability
For a look at how these areas compare beyond hotels, see the Natal neighborhoods guide, and use the Natal travel tips article to plan getting around.
