Morro de Sao Paulo

Morro de São Paulo is located at the northern tip of Ilha de Tinharé and serves as one of Brazil's most captivating island escapes. Because cars are completely banned on the island, all movement is strictly on foot, with locals famously transporting visitors' luggage in wheelbarrows up the steep pathways. The central village seamlessly blends rustic island charm with an array of excellent restaurants, chic boutiques, and lively squares. The island's beaches are simply numbered from one to four. The First Beach is favored by surfers, while the Second Beach is the bustling heart of the island, lined with bars and pousadas, turning into a massive beach party at night. Those seeking tranquility continue to the Third Beach to catch scuba diving boat tours, or to the vast Fourth Beach, famous for its crystal-clear natural tide pools and kilometers of empty sand lined with coconut palms. Getting there usually involves a 2.5-hour catamaran ride departing directly from Salvador da Bahia. For thrill-seekers, the island has a spectacular zip-line that drops from the hilltop lighthouse straight into the waters of the First Beach. The most favorable time to visit is during the drier months between September and March, when the ocean conditions are excellent for swimming and snorkeling.

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.

Itacare

Former cocoa-producing village turned surf mecca, known for lush Atlantic rainforest that meets directly with pristine white sand beaches.

Boipeba

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

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

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.

Port of Salvador

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

Pelourinho

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

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.

The Cocoa Route of Bahia

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

Tamar Project Praia do Forte

A major marine turtle conservation base featuring large aquariums and educational centers.