Things To Do
in Mata de São João
Mata de São João is a coastal municipality in the state of Bahia, northeastern Brazil, best known for its beaches—most notably Praia do Forte—and a mix of Atlantic forest, coconut groves and historic ruins. The area blends low-key fishing villages, conservation projects (like sea turtle protection) and a growing eco-tourism infrastructure that attracts domestic and international visitors. Visitors find a relaxed beach atmosphere with opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural experiences rooted in Bahian food and music.
Despite increased tourism, much of the municipality retains rural character outside the main beach hubs, offering nature trails and quiet coastal stretches.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming historic center of Mata de São João, where colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the vibrant colors of the buildings and the aromas of local bakeries. Don't forget to visit the Igreja Matriz de São João Batista, a stunning church that exemplifies the town's rich heritage.
After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, venture to the nearby Museu de História e Cultura to learn about the local traditions and folklore. Engage with friendly locals who share captivating tales of the area, bringing the history to life. Spend some time shopping for unique handicrafts and souvenirs from local artisans.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring traditional Bahian cuisine such as moqueca. The gentle sound of waves and the warm breeze create the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience. Conclude your day with a stroll along the river, soaking in the tranquil ambiance of the evening.
Wake up early and head to the stunning beaches of Praia do Forte, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters. Start your day with a refreshing swim or simply relax on the beach with a good book. For the adventurous, consider trying stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking in the calm waters.
After a morning of beach fun, enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the many restaurants offering fresh seafood and local dishes. Post-lunch, explore the vibrant coral reefs by snorkeling, discovering the colorful marine life that inhabits the area. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also join a diving excursion to explore deeper waters.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset on the beach, watching as the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and purples. Dine at a beach restaurant while listening to live music, a perfect way to experience the local culture. End your evening with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and laughter with new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Café or coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (bar) | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (local) | $5-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, relatively unspoiled beaches and shallow reefs ideal for families and snorkeling
- Strong conservation and eco-tourism offerings (sea turtles, reserves)
- Relaxed village atmosphere with authentic Bahian culture and cuisine
- Close enough to Salvador for day trips while remaining quieter than the city
- Limited nightlife and fewer urban amenities compared with larger cities
- Public transport options are modest; a car or transfers make getting around easier
- Rainy season can bring heavy showers and occasional beach closures
- Some remote areas have limited medical or high-end shopping facilities
- "Olá / Oi" - Hello / Hi
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female speaker)
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Eu não falo português bem" - I don't speak Portuguese well
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Mata de São João
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy beaches, palm-lined shores and colorful fishing boats provide classic coastal shots at sunrise and sunset.
Historic 16th–17th century ruins on a bluff above the sea offer dramatic viewpoints, architectural interest and panoramic coastal vistas.
Turtle conservation tanks and the adjacent coastline are ideal for wildlife and documentary-style photography, especially during release events.
Shaded Atlantic Forest paths with streams and birdlife, perfect for nature macro and bird photography.
A scenic mixing zone of river and sea—great for reflection shots, mangrove scenes and small fishing boats.
Food in Mata de São João
Mata de São João Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coconut milk and dendê-based fish or shrimp stew with peppers and cilantro; widely available at beachside restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fried black-eyed pea fritters filled with vatapá and caruru — a classic Bahian street food you can find from vendors in the village and markets.
A creamy shrimp stew made with manioc (yucca) and coconut milk; common in mid-range and upscale local restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small stalls and walking vendors selling acarajé, fresh fish snacks, grilled seafood and tropical juices near the beach and the main artisan street.
Early-morning fish markets and pier vendors where fishermen sell daily catches—great for fresh seafood and photos (ask before photographing people).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly and warm greetings are typical—handshakes in formal contexts and cheek kisses (one or two) or hugs among acquaintances; smile and be open in social interactions.
Beachwear is fine on the sand but cover up when entering restaurants or shops; modest dress is appreciated at religious sites.
Bahian culture blends Afro-Brazilian traditions—show respect for religious practices and local festivals, ask before photographing people or private properties.
Safety
Tipping in Mata de São João
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory—many restaurants add a 10% service charge; if not included, a 10% tip is common for good service. Small change for bartenders and hotel porters is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants in tourist areas, but smaller vendors and markets usually require cash—carry Brazilian reais for small purchases. ATMs are available in Praia do Forte and larger towns; inform your bank about travel to avoid card blocks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent sunshine and afternoon showers; high season brings more tourists, lively beach life and full-service vendors.
Start of the wetter months—expect heavier rains some days but still many clear periods; temperatures remain warm and vegetation is lush.
Milder and slightly drier overall; good months for outdoor activities and sea conditions are usually calm—sea turtle season activity may be visible in certain months.
Warming up and becoming more humid; shoulder season can offer fewer crowds, lower prices and pleasant beach weather.
Mata de São João at Night
Hiking in Mata de São João
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Protected Atlantic Forest reserve with marked trails, streams and opportunities for birdwatching and guided nature walks.
Short coastal and bluff paths leading to the historic castle ruins with panoramic views and photographic vantage points.
Coastal-mangrove trail and riverside paths between Imbassaí and adjacent beaches—good for gentle walks, tidal scenery and observing local fishing activity.
Airports
How to reach Mata de São João by plane.
Main airport serving Salvador (roughly a 45–90 minute drive depending on traffic). It's the primary gateway for international and domestic flights; transfers by shuttle, private transfer or rental car are common to reach Mata de São João.
Further south along the coast and less convenient for Mata de São João; an option for regional travelers but involves a long drive to reach Praia do Forte.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional livelihoods remain in coastal and rural zones, with families involved in fishing, small-scale agriculture and artisanal crafts.
Bahia has a strong Afro-Brazilian cultural heritage that shapes music, religion (Candomblé influences), cuisine and festivals in the area.
Growing numbers of people are employed in hospitality, conservation and service industries; a small expatriate community also resides in the coastal villages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport—local and national matches draw broad interest and informal beach/futsal games are common.
Surfing is practiced on suitable breaks and paddleboarding is popular in calmer bays and river mouths like Imbassaí.
Casual, social sports played on popular beaches throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mata de São João.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but less varied than in larger cities; request dishes based on beans, rice, salads, tapioca and fried plantains, and ask restaurants to adapt stews without fish or shrimp.
Vegan choices grow in tourist areas—seek vegan-friendly pousadas and cafes. Gluten-free requests are usually understood, but cross-contamination at street stalls is possible; communicate restrictions clearly in Portuguese when needed.