Sustainability indicators were applied in river basins of a state in Northeastern Brazil, aiming to outline and support effectively sustainable actions of water resources management. Twelve indices and three indicators of Sustainability focused on socioeconomic, hydrological and institutional issues were calculated for six hydrographic regions, quantitatively and qualitatively. Partial scales for all indices related the calculated values to levels of performance (Very High, High, Medium, Low, and Very Low). Posteriorly the indices were grouped in global scales, constructed with levels of water sustainability for all indicators. The results have shown an overall intermediate performance in the assessed river basins, indicating the need to adopt priority measures in the hydrological dimension, especially in relation to groundwater; attention to primary sanitation, with regard to public supply; reduction in water demand and waste; implementation of management tools; consolidation and support to river basin committees. The spatialization of water sustainability indicators enabled a clearer perception and an unmistakable assessment of each river basin surveyed.