The plage de Barra is one of Salvador's most iconic beaches, nestled at the foot of the historic lighthouse that marks the entrance to the Bay of All Saints. Its calm, sheltered waters make it a family favourite, while beach bars serve up renowned caipirinhas and local delicacies like acarajé.
Further north, Itapuã enchants with its wilder character and perfect waves for surfing. Immortalised in songs by Vinicius de Moraes, this beach retains its authenticity, complete with fishing villages and coconut palms offering welcome shade.
Stella Maris draws a more sophisticated crowd with its crystal-clear waters and rocky formations that form natural pools at low tide. The Ondina beach rounds out this idyllic scene with its modern seafront and upscale facilities.
Water sports and beach leisure
Salvador's warm waters are perfect for scuba diving, unveiling pristine coral reefs and extraordinary tropical marine life. Catamaran trips to Itaparica Island reveal secluded coves and untouched beaches reachable only by sea.