Things To Do
in Saubara
Saubara is a small coastal municipality in Bahia, Brazil, located along the Atlantic shoreline near Salvador. The town centers on a working fishing harbor, colorful boats, and tranquil beaches that invite laid-back days. Local life revolves around seafood, markets, and Bahian hospitality, making it ideal for immersive short trips.
Its relaxed vibe and scenic coast draw travelers seeking authentic coastal Bahia experiences away from the big-city crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local artisan market where you can find handcrafted goods and taste local delicacies. Engage with artisans and gain insights into the cultural heritage of Saubara. Don't forget to try the traditional cheese bread for breakfast.
Explore the beautiful architecture of the historic center, taking in the colonial-era buildings and vibrant murals. Stop by a cozy café for lunch and try some of the region's famous seafood dishes. Spend the afternoon wandering through local galleries showcasing the works of local artists.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, taking in the serene beauty of the coastline. Choose a local restaurant for dinner to savor more of the region's culinary delights. Cap off your evening with some live music at a local venue showcasing Brazilian rhythms.
Embark on an early hike in the stunning Parque Nacional that surrounds Saubara, where the lush flora and fauna will captivate you. Take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures to explore the various trails. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenic views.
After your hike, find a scenic spot to have a packed lunch amidst nature. Spend some time bird watching or relaxing by a natural water feature. Explore the park’s visitor center to learn more about the local ecosystem and preservation efforts.
Return to Saubara and refresh yourself at your accommodation before dinner. If you're up for it, join a guided night tour back in the park, where you'll have the chance to see nocturnal wildlife. Enjoy a simple meal at a friendly local diner before hitting the hay.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥪Street food snack | $2-5 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in town | $40-90 |
| 🚎One-way local transport | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Bahian coastal experience away from crowds
- Friendly locals and strong seafood cuisine
- Relaxed pace with beautiful beaches and mangroves
- Accessible day trips to nearby markets and cultural sites
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Some services and facilities may be basic in smaller venues
- Public transport options between towns are limited
- "Oi, tudo bem?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o/a..." - Where is the...
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
- "Posso pagar com cartão?" - Can I pay with a card?
Places to Visit in Saubara
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over colorful fishing boats creates reflective water surfaces perfect for portraits and seascapes.
Long wooden jetty with silhouettes of boats and locals; ideal for long-exposure sunset shots.
Easy trail through mangrove channels offering birdlife, reflections, and atmospheric light through the trees.
White salt flats and dune landscapes provide stark contrasts and unique textures for landscape photography.
Food in Saubara
Saubara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish stew simmered with coconut milk, dendê oil, onions, and peppers. Best enjoyed at harborfront eateries with a hot side of rice and farofa.
Must-Try!
Crisp fritters made from beans and spices, often served with spicy fillings. Common at street stalls and market vendors near the town center.
Creamy seafood or vegetable paste made with dendê oil and coconut milk, typically enjoyed with bread or rice.
Shrimp cooked in a savory pumpkin shell, a Bahian favorite found in several local restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh seafood, cassava flour, fruits, and regional snacks to sample before or after beach visits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting (Olá or Oi) with a handshake is common. Address elders with senhor/senhora and use polite language in conversations.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred spaces; avoid loud behavior in formal settings.
Ask permission when photographing people working in markets or fishing boats; give a small tip when allowed.
Safety
Tipping in Saubara
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated if service is not included. Small, casual spots may not expect tips, but rounding up the bill is common.
Cash (BRL) is widely accepted, especially at markets. Larger restaurants and hotel establishments typically accept credit/debit cards; always have some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with strong sun. Expect bright days and occasional tropical showers; bring sun protection, light clothing, and refillable water bottles.
Warm days with cooler evenings. Humidity remains high; good for outdoor activities earlier in the day.
Milder daytime temperatures, cooler nights. Rain is less frequent but can occur; layers help when coastal winds pick up.
Pleasant temperatures with increasing humidity toward the late spring. Great for beach walks and photography around golden hour.
Saubara at Night
Hiking in Saubara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy boardwalk through mangroves with opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife; great for an afternoon stroll.
Short hike to a vantage point over dunes and beaches for panoramic sea views at sunrise or sunset.
Leisurely trail around nearby salt flats with reflective surfaces and quiet water features ideal for photography.
Airports
How to reach Saubara by plane.
Primary international gateway for the region; connects to domestic and international destinations. From the airport, it’s roughly a 60- to 90-minute drive to Saubara depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Core community with deep ties to the harbor and coastal livelihoods.
Cultural influences reflected in music, cuisine, and religious practices.
Seasonal traders selling seafood, vegetables, crafts, and prepared foods.
Tourists seeking beach days, photography, and Bahian culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region loves football; informal games and local clubs are common on weekends.
Popular on open beaches and in casual recreational spaces along the coast.
Traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art and dance form occasionally seen in cultural gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saubara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bahian dishes rely on seafood or meat, but vegetarian options exist like veggie moqueca substitutions, beans with rice, and fresh fruit. Look for plant-based curries or salads at larger restaurants and ask for dendê oil to be omitted if needed.