Things To Do
in Itacaré
Itacaré is a sun kissed coastal town in Bahia, Brazil known for its lush Atlantic rainforest, pristine beaches, and a vibrant surf culture. Nestled between rainforest-covered hills and the Atlantic Ocean, it blends traditional fishing-town charm with adventurous outdoor opportunities. Visitors flock for world class waves, waterfall hikes, and a lively market scene that showcases Bahian flavors.
With warm hospitality, rustic beaches, and a relaxed tempo, Itacaré offers a memorable mix of nature and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the vibrant town of Itacaré and settle into your beachfront accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring delicious tropical fruits and traditional Brazilian dishes. Take a stroll along the picturesque streets, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere and vibrant local art.
Spend your afternoon at the famous Praia da Concha, where gentle waves invite you for a refreshing swim. Rent a kayak to explore the stunning coastline or lounge on the soft sands, basking under the sun. Enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch at a nearby restaurant, relishing the fresh catch of the day.
As the sun sets, head to a local beach bar for a caipirinha while listening to live music. Wander through the lively night market, where you can sample street food and browse handmade crafts. End the night with a peaceful walk along the beach, under a starlit sky.
Set out early to visit the breathtaking Praia de Jeribucaçu, known for its lush greenery and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a picnic breakfast surrounded by nature's beauty and perhaps take a dip in the refreshing sea. Capture stunning photos of the picturesque landscape before heading back to town.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided hike to the stunning Cachoeira do Cleandro waterfall. The trail offers scenic views of the Atlantic rainforest, leading you to a tranquil swimming spot beneath the waterfall. Relish a packed lunch in this serene environment, connecting with nature and appreciating the local wildlife.
Return to Itacaré for a traditional Brazilian dinner at a cozy restaurant. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers, sharing stories about your day's adventures. Enjoy a tropical dessert to conclude your culinary experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee and snack | $2-5 |
| 🥗Restaurant meal for two | $20-40 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $25-60 |
| 🏄Surfboard rental per day | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant natural beauty from beaches to rainforest trails
- Strong surf culture and welcoming local communities
- Delicious Bahian cuisine with fresh seafood and tropical fruits
- Compact town center makes it easy to explore on foot
- Seasonal rain can affect trails and some beach access
- Some services can be limited outside peak season
- Hilly terrain may be challenging for some visitors
- Travel distances to larger cities require planning
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much is this?
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Saúde!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Itacaré
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy stretch with soft morning light and evidence of early surfers, perfect for wide landscapes and golden reflections.
Clifftop views over a crescent bay, ideal for silhouettes and dramatic ocean shots at golden hour.
Small coves accessed by trails; turquoise water and rock formations provide intimate beach photography.
Panoramic overlook of the town and coast, great for cityscapes and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Itacaré
Itacaré Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seafood stew simmered in dendê oil and coconut milk; best enjoyed at seaside restaurants.
Must-Try!
Coconut fried bean balls served with vatapá and caruru; common at street stalls and markets.
Shrimp stewed in a creamy manioc puree with dendê oil and cilantro.
Crispy fried fish paired with rice, beans or farofa and a bright salsa verde.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, seafood and local snacks; great for sampling everyday flavors.
Beachfront vendors offering grilled fish, tapioca and acarajé, especially in the late afternoon.
Small vendor areas with coconut water, fruits, and quick bites after a coastline stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite Portuguese greetings such as bom dia or boa tarde go a long way; a handshake or kiss on the cheek among friends is common.
Dress modestly when away from the beach; cover shoulders when entering churches or more formal spaces; avoid loud behavior on quiet streets at night.
Ask permission when photographing people in markets or villages; respect private property and sacred sites.
Support local businesses, dispose of waste properly, and respect natural spaces and wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Itacaré
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants may include a 10% service charge; if not, a 5–10% tip is appreciated. Small cafes and street vendors rarely expect tips, but rounding up is common.
Cash BRL and cards are widely accepted at restaurants and shops; PIX and other instant transfers are increasingly common, especially for larger purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with abundant sunshine; peak beach days and outdoor activities. Expect busier streets and surf conditions favorable for experienced riders.
Warm days with occasional showers; lush landscapes and comfortable beach visits; great for hiking and cultural events.
Milder and more comfortable for daytime exploration; cooler evenings, possible misty mornings; good for forest treks and city strolls.
Warm with rising humidity and vibrant vegetation; excellent for surfing, outdoor markets, and photography with softer light.
Itacaré at Night
Hiking in Itacaré
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular waterfall hike with scenic viewpoints and swimming spots.
Grid of forest trails offering birdwatching and lush canopy views.
Cliffside paths with panoramic ocean scenes and sunset prospects.
Airports
How to reach Itacaré by plane.
Nearest major airport with connections to Brazil's major cities; about 60–70 km from Itacaré by road.
Large international gateway; longer transfer to Itacaré by road with options for domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding community with deep ties to fishing and cacao farming.
Surf travelers, backpackers, and Brazilian vacationers flock to Itacaré in peak season.
Moderate presence, drawn to beaches, safety and relaxed pace.
A growing share seeking nature, culture, and adventure experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core pastime, with many beaches offering beginner to advanced waves.
Community games and casual matches on local fields.
Popular in the mornings on sandy shores.
Traditional dance-fight form seen in cultural spaces and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Itacaré.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Bahian dishes feature seafood or meat, but you can find vegetarian moqueca with hearts of palm or mushrooms, tapioca, grilled vegetables, and fruit desserts. Ask for oil light or exclude dendê when possible.