Itacare

Located south of Salvador, Itacaré owes its early development to the 19th-century cocoa boom. For a long time, the town remained isolated, connected to the rest of the state only by a rough dirt road. This very isolation helped preserve the pristine Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Rainforest), which plunges directly into the ocean here, forming remarkable cliff-lined bays. Today, the small coastal town is a major hotspot for ecotourism and dedicated surfers. Close to the town center are the urban beaches (Praias Urbanas) like Praia da Concha, which has excellent infrastructure and calm waters excellent for paddleboarding. True adventurers, however, must hike along small jungle trails to reach hidden surf beaches such as Prainha or Jeribucaçu. These bays remain completely undeveloped, framed by dense palm trees and dark rock formations. By late afternoon, the local community gathers at the Ponta do Xaréu viewpoint to watch the sunset over the sea. After dark, activity centers around Rua Pituba, a lively pedestrian street offering laid-back bars, live music, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and açaí bowls. To fully explore Itacaré and its nearby waterfalls, renting a car or joining guided tours is highly recommended. The optimal conditions for both surfing and hiking generally fall between August and March.

Nearby cities

Salvador

The first capital of Brazil, known for its Afro-Brazilian culture and historical architecture.

Aracaju

Welcoming coastal city with expansive beaches, the scenic Orla de Atalaia, and rich Northeastern culture.

Feira de Santana

The largest city in the interior of the northeast, famous as the most important commercial hub in Bahia.

Boipeba

Ilha de Boipeba is a vehicle-free island in the Tinharé archipelago, known for its extensive palm groves and clear coral pools.

Morro de Sao Paulo

Car-free island paradise off the coast of Bahia, featuring picturesque numbered beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant nightlife sc…

History & landmarks

Lencois

Charming historical town from the diamond rush era that now serves as the primary gateway to the spectacular Chapada Diamantina National …

Lacerda Elevator

The Elevador Lacerda is a historic public elevator in Salvador, connecting the Lower City with the Upper City and offering views of the bay.

Basilica of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim

The most famous Catholic church in Salvador da Bahia, known for the festival of the ritual washing of the steps.

Nature

São Francisco River

The São Francisco River is the longest river entirely within Brazil and one of the country's most important waterways.

More places

The Cocoa Route of Bahia

An agricultural region in Bahia historically known for cocoa cultivation and chocolate production.

Atlantic Forest

A highly threatened but extremely biodiverse biome along the eastern coast of Brazil.

Barra Lighthouse

The Farol da Barra is a historic lighthouse in Salvador, built on the site of a 16th-century fort at the entrance to the Bay of All Saints.

Church and Convent of São Francisco

An impressive Baroque church in Salvador, whose interior is almost completely covered in gold leaf.

Pelourinho

The historic center of Salvador da Bahia, featuring colorful colonial houses and Afro-Brazilian culture.

Port of Salvador

A versatile port in Bahia, important for both passenger cruises and cargo, including petrochemicals and fruits.

Cachoeira

A historic city in the state of Bahia that is an important center of Afro-Brazilian culture and history.

Camaçari Petrochemical Complex

The largest integrated industrial complex in the Southern Hemisphere, housing chemical, automotive, and manufacturing plants.