The origins of Paracuru date back to the late sixteenth century. During the 50s and until recent times its economy was entirely base on agriculture (fruits, sugar cane, cassava) and fishing, using their traditional fishing boats called Jangadas.

Paracuru saw its first boom in the 60s with the catching of lobsters. Tourism declined with the decline of the lobsters and owing to its remote location.

Due to it's unpolluted beaches and varied ecosystem Paracuru has the perfect conditions for kitesurfing and in recent times has become international renowned.