Things To Do
in Santa Cruz

Soft morning light on the sandy shoreline with calm seas and silhouettes of palm trees framing the horizon.

Cobbled streets, colonial façades, and colorful doors provide a rich backdrop for portrait and architectural photography.

Lively fishing boats, line-ups of seafront cafés, and golden hour reflections on the water.

A coastal overlook offering dramatic sunsets and expansive ocean vistas ideal for wide-angle shots.

A fragrant fish stew cooked with dendê oil, coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Best enjoyed with rice and farinha, often found in beachside eateries.

Must-Try!

Crispy fritters made from black-eyed peas, split open and filled with vatapá or caruru, typically sold by street vendors and paired with hot pepper sauce.

Shrimp cooked in a creamy coconut-milk purée with cassava and dendê oil; rich, flavorful, and commonly served with rice.

A dish of okra, dried shrimp, peanuts, and palm oil, often enjoyed as part of Bahian feasts and paired with rice and vinaigrette.

A bustling local market where you can sample fresh fruit, fried snacks, steamed prawns, and regional treats while chatting with vendors.

Casual stalls along the promenade offer fried fish, pastéis, tapioca pancakes, and refreshing coconut water—great for a quick lunch on the go.

A friendly greeting and a touch of humor go a long way. Address people formally in initial interactions and use 'por favor' and 'obrigado/a' regularly.

Light, modest clothing is typical in town centers; swimwear is appropriate at the beach but not in inland streets; be respectful in religious or cultural spaces.

Tipping is appreciated but not always customary in all establishments. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good; guide and taxi tips are appreciated but not obligatory.

Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants. ATMs are available in town; small vendors may prefer cash.

Dry-warm conditions with high humidity; expect afternoon showers. Bring sunscreen, light clothing, and stay hydrated; evenings are pleasant for strolls along the waterfront.

Milder temperatures with lingering humidity; more enjoyable for outdoor exploration and street markets. Sea breezes keep conditions pleasant for longer walks.

Warm days and cooler nights by the coast; still comfortable for beach activities. Occasional rain is possible; layers help during cooler evenings.

Continuing warm weather with vibrant skies and increasing cultural events; ideal for outdoor photography and day trips to nearby coastal villages.

A national favorite; local matches and street games are common in parks and beaches.

Coastal conditions support casual surf and volleyball on most beaches.

Many Bahian dishes can be adapted with plant-based proteins or vegetables. Look for moquecas made with vegetables, bean-based dishes, and fruit-centric snacks; communicate clearly about dendê oil if avoiding it.

Rice, beans, yucca, and seafood are naturally gluten-free; verify sauces and condiments for hidden gluten and ask for simple preparations when in doubt.