The southern coast of Bahia is home to some of the most enchanting beaches in Brazil. Two standout destinations—Ilhéus and Itacaré—offer a perfect mix of natural beauty, Afro-Brazilian culture, and tropical adventure. Whether you’re looking for surf, serenity, or rich literary history, this region delivers.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, where to go, and why Ilhéus and Itacaré are must-stops on any northeastern Brazil itinerary.
Why Visit Ilhéus and Itacaré?
These two towns are located just an hour apart but offer distinct travel vibes:
- Ilhéus: A historic city known for its colonial buildings, cacao farms, and connection to author Jorge Amado.
- Itacaré: A laid-back beach town famous for surfing, eco-tourism, and its youthful, alternative energy.
Together, they form a coastal corridor of adventure and culture.
How to Get There
By air:
- Fly into Ilhéus Airport (IOS) – flights from Salvador, Belo Horizonte, and São Paulo
From Ilhéus to Itacaré:
- Distance: ~75 km (1.5–2 hours by car)
- Paved road through the Atlantic Forest, full of scenic views
Buses, taxis, and shared transfers are available between the two towns.
Best Beaches in Ilhéus
1. Praia dos Milionários
Ilhéus’ most famous beach, known for:
- Beach clubs and restaurants
- Calm waters for swimming
- Family-friendly environment
2. Praia de São Miguel
Quieter and more rustic, with strong waves and natural beauty.
3. Praia do Norte
Ideal for long walks and surfing. Fewer crowds, beautiful coconut groves.
What to Do in Ilhéus
1. Visit Jorge Amado’s House
This colonial-style home turned museum honors one of Brazil’s most beloved authors.
- See original manuscripts and personal items
- Learn about Ilhéus’ role in his novels like Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon
2. Tour a Cacao Plantation
Explore the region’s chocolate roots with visits to working fazendas de cacau.
- Tastings included
- Learn about the production process from seed to bar
3. Explore the Historic Center
Don’t miss:
- Catedral de São Sebastião
- Teatro Municipal
- Traditional Bahian cuisine in local markets
Best Beaches in Itacaré
1. Praia da Concha
Most accessible beach in town with:
- Calm waters
- Beach bars and chairs
- Great for sunsets and paddleboarding
2. Praia do Resende
Small, postcard-perfect, framed by palm trees. Ideal for relaxing.
3. Praia da Tiririca
Itacaré’s main surf beach, also home to competitions and backpacker hangouts.
4. Praia da Ribeira
Wild yet accessible. Natural showers and lush forest backdrop.
5. Praia de Jeribucaçu
Requires a short hike but offers:
- Stunning scenery
- River meets the sea
- Fewer people, incredible natural vibe
What to Do in Itacaré
1. Surfing and Bodyboarding
Itacaré is one of Brazil’s top surfing destinations, with waves for all levels.
- Surf schools available
- Best months: July to November
2. Hiking to Remote Beaches
Trails through the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Forest) connect many of the region’s beaches.
- Look for monkeys and tropical birds
- Combine multiple beaches in a single day hike
3. Rafting and Zip-lining
Adventure sports in nearby rivers and waterfalls.
- Rafting on the Rio de Contas
- Zip-lining into natural pools at Tijuípe Waterfall
Where to Stay
Ilhéus:
- Barravento Praia Hotel – Beachfront and comfortable
- Hotel Aldeia da Praia – Resort-style with family amenities
Itacaré:
- Txai Resort – Luxury and wellness by the sea
- Pousada Vila dos Pássaros – Eco-friendly and well-located
- Che Lagarto Hostel – Budget-friendly and social
What to Eat
Both towns offer a taste of Bahia’s rich culinary heritage.
Must-try dishes:
- Moqueca de peixe (fish stew with coconut milk)
- Acarajé (deep-fried bean fritters with shrimp)
- Camarão na moranga (shrimp in pumpkin)
- Chocolate artesanal from local cacao farms
Top restaurants:
- Restaurante Gabriela (Ilhéus) – Traditional and literary-inspired
- Tio Gu Creperia (Itacaré) – Popular with locals and travelers
- Flor de Cacau (Itacaré) – Gourmet chocolate and dessert spot
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aug–Nov | Dry and sunny | Great for surfing and hiking |
| Dec–Mar | Warm and festive | High season with beach parties |
| Apr–Jul | Rainier months | Lush landscape, fewer tourists |
September and October are ideal for combining good weather, fewer crowds, and active tours.
Travel Tips
- Bring bug repellent—especially in Itacaré’s jungle trails
- Pack light hiking shoes or sandals
- Carry cash—some small places don’t accept cards
- Combine both towns in a 5- to 7-day trip for the full experience
Why Ilhéus and Itacaré Belong on Your Travel List
These neighboring destinations give you the best of both worlds: history, literature, and cacao in Ilhéus; surf, nature, and adventure in Itacaré. Together, they showcase the diversity, beauty, and soul of Bahia’s coast like few places can.
For those seeking less crowded, more authentic Brazilian beach experiences, this duo is a tropical dream come true.
✈️ I’m Miles Carter, a travel writer and explorer passionate about discovering stories that maps can’t show.🌍 From bustling cities to quiet mountain trails, I bring you practical tips, unique experiences, and honest travel advice to help you explore the world with purpose.📍 This blog is your compass to smarter, deeper, and more meaningful travel.
Let’s wander beyond the obvious.