Salvador and Bahia Coast
The 1000 km stretch of coast in Bahia is Brazil’s top seaside destination frequented mainly by locals, who know of the region’s secret bays, beach villages and surfing waves.
Salvador and Bahia Coast Highlights
The Bahia Coast is known as the "the land of happiness," and is by far one of the most romantic destinations in Brazil. The unspoilt 900 km of coconut-palm fringed coast is home to hidden bays and beaches; some of which are yet to be pinned on a map. The Bahia Coast has the best beaches in Brazil, and the coolest coastline which is a heady mix of luxury life and bohemian vibes. The coastline tends to be frequented by Brazilians, which speaks volumes about the destination.
You can walk the miles of sandy beach for hours and not see a soul. While walking along the coast you’ll enjoy sights of pounding seas, crisp white sand and dense Atlantic forest providing picturesque scenes. Here on the Bahia coast there are marmosets in the trees, turtles on the sand, and marine life in the ocean.
Not only does the Bahia Coast offer a sense of tropical splendour, but it also offers a beach jungle atmosphere. Inland you’ll find the Chapada Diamantina National Park,a pristine environment home to toppling waterfalls, majestic mountains, caves, and natural swimming pools.
There are also plenty of surf villages, chic towns and sleepy fishing villages all worthy of your time.
The capital of Bahia is Salvador, a vibrant and historical town with a fantastic rhythm - there seems to be a vibrant energy dancing beneath the surface of the town. Brightly coloured houses stretch along the spit of Salvador, and there’s plenty of architecture and history waiting to be uncovered.
Other areas along the Bahia coast include : the surfer town of Itacaré, the Bay of Camamu home to islands and mangrove swamps, and the affluent yet hippie town of Trancosco.
- Eager surfers should not skip the opportunity to surf the breaks ofItacaré, a beach with consistent swells.
- Salvador is the capital and makes for the perfect base to explore the wonderful beaches of the Bahia coast. It is also a happy town that loves to celebrate carnival time.
- Bahia represents fun and freedom; and one thing that accurately represents this is the locals’love of Samba.
- Trancoso is described as one of Bahia’s most affluent destinations, but it still maintains the traditional laid back vibe of the area, which is all about hippies and dreadlocks!
- Join a city tour to learn about the Colonial architecture and brightly coloured houses of Salvador.
- Walk and hike the rainforests adjacent to the golden beaches. There are plenty of hiking paths in the national park.
- The coastline is unspoiled and hasn’t lost its soul to tourism. There are plenty of uncrowded bays that not even Brazilians know about.
- Try the unique spicy cuisine of the area and delve into the depths of Acarajé, a must-try local dish.
- Something you absolutely cannot miss while you’re in Salvador, is seeing a performance of the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira.
The Bahia coast is tropical paradise, and there are plenty of accommodation options for sun-seeking, beach loving guests. Stay on the palm-fringed beaches, in the centre of villages or opt for an Atlantic rainforest - the choice is yours.
Set slightly north of the capital of Salvador in Praia do Forte, is the exclusive Tivoli Eco Resort. This 5 star resort is set in 30,000 hectares of tropical rainforest, and has 12km of golden beachfront on its shores. If that’s not enough scope for relaxation, then there’s also a world-class spa designed to indulge your senses.
Hotel Villa Bahia stands proudly in the centre of the historical town of Salvador. The villa is ideally located for those wanting to combine a beachside stay with local arts and culture. The villa is actually set in 2 traditional colonial houses, and has panoramic views of the city. The hotel villa is within walking distance of shops, restaurants and more.
How to Get There
Salvador's Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA) is the main airport in Bahia. A number of carriers from around the world arrive at this airport. There are direct flights from Europe, the US and the rest of South America.
If you are already in Brazil, another option is to take a luxury bus - a lengthy journey, but one with many stops. These busses depart from major cities such as Sao Paulo (30 hours) and arrive in Bahia’s capital, Salvador.Other transport options include hiring a private driver and car, or hiring a car for your own road trip.
Salvador and Bahia Coast Activities
The main activities in Bahia are centred around the outdoors. Bahia is the place of coastal activities, and relaxation. Choose to sign-up for activities, or simply kick-back and relax on one of the many white sandy beaches.
There are a number of uncrowded surfing breaks at Itacaré, and surfboard hire is possible at any one of the surf schools on the beach.
For hiking and rainforest walks, make your way to the Chapada Diamantina National Park, where there are many mapped out trails and routes. It’s here where you will discover plenty of wildlife thriving in their natural habitat.
There’s a scenic 8 hour cruise on a schooner that explores the hidden inlets and islands of the area. It sails across All Saints Bay and guides on board will also teach you about the history of the area. Get your sea-legs ready - this cruise is a fantastic way to get an overview of Bahia. Other boat tours include the jungle boat tour that cruises its way up river, deep into the heart of the Atlantic rainforest. You could also hire a canoe or stand-up paddle board for your own expedition!
Explore the history and culture of the colourful Salvador town. You can do this at your leisure (don’t miss the Sao Joaquim Market) or join a 4 hour guided city tour.
Part of the unique culture in Salvador, is the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch a Capoeira display.
