The name Maceió comes from a sugarcane mill named "Maçayó" or in the Tupy indian language, "Maçai-o-k", meaning, "what covers the swamplands". Strategically located between the Atlantic ocean and the Mundaú lake, a small but a city that is prepared for tourism. Beaches are lively; lines with thatch covered bar that provide typical live music. The reef barrier makes swimming and water sports safe. At Pajuçara beach, one can take a "jangada"(log raft) 2km out to sea, where one will find a natural swimming pool. An ideal place to meet people from all over the world. While standing in the knee-deep water, one may savor just caught fish or shrimps. Ponta Verde and Jatiuca, are surfer's favorites.

Climate
It has a tropical, hot and humid climate. The hottest months are December and January, when temperatures can reach 36ºC in the shade. The lowest temperatures, with lows around 21ºC, usually occur in July and August.

How to get there
By Air: Maceio's airport is served by flights from every large Brazilian city as well as by some international flights.

By Highway: Maceio is connected to the main cities of Brazil by BR-104 and BR-101 federal highways.