Things To Do
in Jacaré

Jacaré is a small coastal town in Bahia, Brazil, perched along a mangrove-lined estuary where the Atlantic meets tropical forests. The town has a relaxed, friendly vibe with colorful boats, warm sunsets, and a pace that invites long walks on the beach. Local cuisine centers on seafood, dendê oil, and coconut milk, served in casual beachfront eateries.

Visitors can explore by foot or boat, mixing nature, culture, and seaside charm in equal measure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day by wandering through the charming streets of Jacaré's historic center, where colonial architecture meets vibrant local culture. Visit the picturesque Church of São Francisco, taking in its intricate baroque details and stunning views of the surrounding area. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh fruits and traditional Brazilian pastries.

afternoon
:

After lunch, stroll along the waterfront promenade, where you can admire the stunning views of the Rio Paraíba and the iconic Jacaré Beach. Take a guided tour of the Museu do Cangaço to learn about the fascinating history of banditry in Brazil during the early 20th century. As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant to enjoy some traditional Northeastern Brazilian cuisine.

evening
:

As night falls, experience the lively atmosphere of Jacaré's waterfront, where local musicians often perform live music. Join the locals for a fun evening of dancing and socializing, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of the region. For dessert, treat yourself to some delicious cocada, a traditional Brazilian sweet made with coconut.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Start your day at Jacaré Beach, enjoying the soft sands and gentle waves as you soak in the sun. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the calm waters, enjoying the scenic views of the coastline and surrounding nature. Alternatively, relax with a refreshing coconut water while watching the local fishermen bring in their catch.

afternoon
:

After a morning of fun in the sun, enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the many restaurants offering fresh seafood and local specialties. Spend the afternoon trying out various water sports, such as jet skiing or windsurfing, for an adrenaline-packed experience on the water. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, take a beach walk and enjoy the stunning landscape around you.

evening
:

As the sun sets, settle down at a beach bar to sip on a caipirinha while enjoying the stunning view. Listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves as you unwind and reflect on your day. For dinner, feast on a traditional seafood moqueca, a rich Brazilian fish stew, while enjoying the lively beach atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee/tea$1-3
🚕Taxi ride (short trip)$3-7
🎟️Museum/attraction entry$2-6
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$20-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed pace of life
  • Beautiful coastal scenery
  • Friendly locals
  • Good value for money
  • Limited big-city amenities
  • Seasonal rain can disrupt outdoor plans
  • Fewer English speakers outside tourist areas
  • Less nightlife compared to larger cities
  • "Olá, tudo bem?" - Hi, how are you?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept cards?
  • "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Jacaré

Visit one of these nice places.

Ribeira do Jacaré Estuary Viewpoint

Wide estuary with mangroves and soft light during sunrise and sunset.

Old Lighthouse Cliff

Craggy cliff with sweeping ocean views ideal for dramatic coast photos.

Ponte do Jacaré at Dawn

Suspension bridge over mangroves; best light just after sunrise.

Marina with Colorful Boats

Row of pastel boats docked along the quay against turquoise water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jacaré

Jacaré’s cuisine blends Bahian flavors with coastal seafood, coconut milk, dendê oil, and bright tropical fruits. Expect generous portions, fresh ingredients, and a casual dining scene that favors sharing and outdoor seating.

Jacaré Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca Baiana

Traditional fish stew cooked in dendê oil with coconut milk, peppers, and cilantro.

Must-Try!

Acarajé with Vatapá

Fried bean croquettes served with spicy vatapá; vegetarian-friendly variations available.

Peixada Bahiana

Fish simmered with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs; usually served with rice and pirão.

Cuscuz de milho com queijo coalho

Steamed corn couscous paired with grilled cheese curd for a quick bite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Jacaré

Covered market offering fresh fish, tropical fruits, spices, and coconut water.

Feirinha da Orla

Waterfront stalls with fried snacks, manioc, and local juices along the promenade.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jacaré has a tropical coastal climate with hot, humid summers and mild, drier winters. Rain is most common in the wet season from October to April, with humidity staying high year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or a friendly kiss on the cheek among friends; address elders as Senhor/Senhora.

Dressing

Casual beachwear is common, but modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites or markets.

Public Behavior

Be warm and polite; Brazilians value conversation and personal space is appreciated.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children.

Safety Guide

Safety

Follow standard travel safety: keep valuables secure, avoid flashing electronics on crowded streets, use licensed taxis at night, and be mindful near isolated beach ends after dark. Swim only at monitored beaches and stay aware of tides and currents near the estuary.

Tipping in Jacaré

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping of 10-15% is customary in restaurants if service is good; casual stalls may not expect tips.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, humid days with occasional tropical showers; stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen.

Autumn

Dryer air and pleasant evenings; great for outdoor dining and strolling.

Winter

Milder daytime heat with cooler nights; sea conditions can vary; light jackets recommended.

Spring

Warm and humid; potential rain showers; lush vegetation returns.

Nightlife Guide

Jacaré at Night

Beachfront bars and small live-music venues offer relaxed nightlife; you’ll find forró, samba, and MPB performances on weekends. Many venues close by midnight, but some seaside shacks stay open later during peak season, with a laid-back party vibe rather than club-centered nightlife.

Hiking in Jacaré

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mangrove Nature Reserve Trail

Boardwalk through mangroves with birdlife and chances to spot wildlife from a safe distance.

Coastal Ridge Lookout Trail

Moderate climb to a cliff overlook with sweeping sea views and photo opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Jacaré by plane.

Salvador International Airport (SSA)

Major international gateway located roughly 150-180 km from Jacaré; connections by road or bus.

Ilhéus–Itabuna Regional Airport (IOS)

Regional airport closer to southern Bahia; rental cars and shuttles connect to coastal towns.

Porto Seguro Airport (BPS)

Domestic flights with several flight options; transfer to Jacaré takes longer but possible.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center and waterfront are fairly walkable, with a compact layout. Sidewalks can be uneven, and streets may have limited lighting at night; for longer trips consider a taxi or ride-share.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Pardo (mixed race)

A large portion of residents reflect a mix of European, Indigenous, and African heritage.

Portuguese-speaking Brazilians

Primary language and cultural anchor of daily life; welcoming to visitors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport; neighborhood leagues and informal matches are common.

Beach Volleyball

Popular on the beaches, with pickup games and casual tournaments in season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in town is light to moderate; peak times coincide with weekend beachgoers. Public transportation is limited; taxis and ride-sharing are reliable options for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jacaré.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for pratos com legumes or vegetarian moqueca alternatives; request no shrimp stock or sardines; many places can adapt dishes with coconut milk and dendê oil.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in town via public clinics and private clinics; for more advanced care, you will need to travel to a larger city with a hospital. Travel insurance with medical coverage is recommended.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide