Coastal ecosystems and their species face growing challenges due to human land use and occupation. In Brazil, particularly in Ceará, manatee populations have a low density, reduced genetic diversity, and fragmented distribution. The American manatee (Trichechus manatus) is classified as critically endangered and requiring conservation actions at local and broader scales. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between land-use dynamics and impacts on manatees along the east coast of Ceará (Icapuí and Aracati cities) by analyzing environmental indicators using the DPSIR approach. Urbanization was identified as the main driver, with pressures including population growth, solid waste generation, and vessel quantity. The State was assessed through vegetation cover, sanitation, and waste collection coverage. Impacts were represented by bathing quality and erosion rates, while responses comprised protected areas and municipal planning instruments to reduce environmental degradation and support manatee conservation. Both cities show critical deficiencies in basic sanitation and waste management, contributing to the degradation of water quality and increased environmental risk. Persistent coastal erosion threatens manatee feeding grounds and movement routes. These findings highlight the need for integrated management, strengthened municipal planning instruments, and effective implementation of protected area management plans to reduce pressure and improve environmental conditions for long-term manatee conservation.