Fortaleza airport

How near is the airport to the beach? I'm arriving in Fortaleza on the 12th but have a friend arriving on the 13th, so I was wondering if it's going to be worth it to get hostel on the beach or if I should stay closer to the airport (if the beach is far). Thanks!

the pinto martins airport is about 7 km from town
they have transfers, taxis and buses

happy travels : )

Airport is about a 20-30 minute drive (including by taxi) from the nearest beach areas (Praia de Iracema and Mucuripe), depending on traffic. No decent places to stay around the airport itself. Nearest residential and business areas (not within walking distance of the airport) are not areas you want to hang around, especially at night. Taxi should cost about 20-25 Reais. Only busses are local busses. No shuttles I am aware of. I personally would not take a local bus, and I speak Portuguese, but you may be more adventurous. Transfers would be for particular hotels (doubt if hostels offer them). When you book your hostel or hotel be sure of its location. The fact that it has "praia" (beach) in the name does NOT mean it is anywhere near the beach. If you book in advance, the place you will stay at should be able to advise you on transportation options. Best would be to have your friend make their own way into town and meet you at your hotel/hostel (or some pre-arranged meeting place such as the Ponte Metallica, aka Ponte dos Inglesas, in Praia de Iracema area.