Visiting Praia do Forte, a coastal village blending nature and culture
Located about 80 km north of Salvador, Praia do Forte is a former fishing village transformed into a top destination for ecotourism. Between palm-fringed beaches, coral reefs, and marine wildlife conservation efforts, it sets the stage for both relaxation and exploration.
Tamar Project: A sea turtle conservation center
The Tamar Project is a conservation hub dedicated to protecting sea turtles. Open to the public, it features educational exhibits and, in season, guided viewings of nesting and egg hatching. It is an insightful stop for understanding marine biodiversity issues.
Garcia d'Ávila Castle: A historical landmark
Just a few kilometers from downtown, the Garcia d'Ávila Castle stands as one of Brazil's few medieval-style structures. Built in the 16th century, it commands panoramic views of the coastline and offers a tangible piece of the region's colonial history.
Sapiranga Reserve: An Atlantic Forest immersion
The Sapiranga Reserve, reachable by bicycle or ATV, invites visitors to explore local flora and fauna deep inside the Atlantic Forest. Marked trails provide routes suited for all fitness levels.
Beaches and natural pools
The beaches of Praia do Forte are known for their crystal-clear water and natural rock pools formed by coral reefs. At low tide, these calm basins create safe swimming areas that work particularly well for families.
Bahian culinary flavors
Local cooking blends African and Brazilian influences. Signature dishes include moqueca (a fish stew simmered in coconut milk) and acarajé (deep-fried bean fritters stuffed with shrimp). Tropical fruits and fresh juices round out the menu.
Where to eat?
- Papa Gente (downtown): A favorite spot for traditional plates and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Sabor da Vila (downtown): Serves a variety of moquecas and other regional specialties.
- Terra Brasil Restaurante e Choperia (downtown): Offers Bahian fare in a comfortable setting.
Where to stay?
- Porto da Lua Boutique Hotel (beachfront): A property right on the sand with sweeping ocean views.
- Hotel Via dos Corais (downtown): Positioned in the heart of the village near shops and restaurants.
- Porto Zarpa Hotel (downtown): A family-friendly option featuring a garden and pool.
When to go?
The months from December to March bring warm, dry weather and line up with local festivities. Meanwhile, the period from July to October opens up chances to spot humpback whales just offshore.
How to get there?
From Salvador, Praia do Forte is reachable by car via the BA-099 highway in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Regular buses and private transfers also run to the beach town.
How to get around?
The village itself is easy to cover on foot. For venturing further out, bike rentals and ATV excursions are readily available locally.
A very concrete-heavy seaside resort where all the people from Salvador hang out on the weekends. I would choose the village of Imbassaí a little further north, which has better preserved its primary forest (Mata Atlantica).