Itacaré is 5 hours’ drive from Salvador, nestled on Bahia’s Cocoa Coast at the mouth of the River Contas. This buzzing surfing town truly blessed with superb white-sand beaches and scenic forested coastline. Cocoa plantations were once critical to this region’s economy. These days, tourism plays a leading role, and it’s easy to see why. This little community really is a slice of paradise.
Things to do in Itacaré
By day, visitors flock to the area’s many beaches, with Concha, Prainha and Itacarezinho beaches being the most noteworthy. Prainha lies at the end of forest trail, which keeps it rather secluded, making it a popular choice for surfers. Itacarezinho’s golden sands, towering palm trees and sparkling blue waters stretch on for miles. When you’re done sunbathing, head up into the mountains and explore the wildlife and waterfalls of Serra do Conduru State Park.
At night, the neighbourhood of Pituba springs to life, with lively bars and restaurants dishing up pizzas, burgers and traditional Brazilian cuisine. On Sunday mornings, relax with a leisurely stroll as you browse the local street markets.
Itacaré has plenty to offer travellers looking for adventure, with boat tours, surf schools, mountain hiking and kayaking. Above Praia da Ribeira you’ll even find a zip line (tirolesa) which will whisk you across the tree tops, giving you impressive views along the way.
How to get to Itacaré
From Ilhéus – by plane/car
Ilhéus is the nearest airport to Itacaré. Here you can rent a car from Localiza and drive north along the BA-001. The journey takes about 1 hour, 20 minutes.
From Ilhéus – by bus
Rota Transportes run about 15 buses per day from Ilhéus to Itacaré between 6am and 7.40pm. Journeys take just under 2 hours. Buses returning to Ilhéus operate between 5.15am and 6.40pm. Cost is around R$28.
From Salvador – by car
Take the ferry across the Baia de Todos os Santos to Ilha Itaparica, then follow the BA-001 highway south, following signs to Itacaré (map below).
Last updated: 25 Nov 2023