Morro de São Paulo: Unmissable paradise in Bahia
Those seeking a paradise where time seems to slow down, the streets are made of sand , and the nights are lit by candles and caipirinhas should look to the north of Tinharé Island , in Brazil . There lies Morro de São Paulo , a charming town where modernity yields to tranquility and rustic charm becomes natural luxury .
This hidden treasure in Bahia is now one of the most sought-after destinations in the country, not only for its spectacular beaches and tropical nightlife , but also for its authenticity and relaxed atmosphere .
The adventure of reaching the island
Located just 60 kilometers from Salvador, Bahia , the journey to Morro de São Paulo is part of the experience . The quickest option is to take a catamaran from the São Joaquim terminal in downtown Salvador. In just over two and a half hours, you'll arrive on the island for around R$150 , although those prone to seasickness might prefer an alternative with calmer waters .
For travelers who prioritize saving money or adventure , there's a more economical and scenic route: ferry, bus, and speedboat . It begins with a ferry to the Bom Despacho terminal (R$ 6-8), then a bus to Valença (R$ 40), and finally a speedboat to Morro (R$ 35). The entire journey can cost around R$ 83 and offers the chance to see the heart of Bahia in motion .
It is also possible to combine car and boat : land transfer to Valença or the Bom Jardim dock, you can leave the car in designated parking areas and board for R$ 15 to R$ 35. Although longer, this route offers flexibility and lovely views along the way.
It's important to note that there is a symbolic entrance fee to Morro de San Juan: R$20 (about US$4) per person, which goes towards heritage preservation . This fee is paid when purchasing tickets in Salvador or online.
Importantly, there are no banks on the island and only one ATM , so it is recommended to carry cash , especially for tours or smaller services.
Morro de São Paulo: Beaches for all tastes
The beaches of Morro de São Paulo are like chapters in a book, where each reader finds their favorite. From the vibrant Segunda Praia to the peaceful Praia do Encanto , each one has a distinct personality.
Primeira Praia is the closest to the town and a magnet for surfers , with consistent waves and the arrival of the adrenaline- pumping zip line that departs from Farol do Morro . Segunda Praia , on the other hand, is the center of the hustle and bustle and party scene , where travelers mingle among bars , hotels , and music under the stars.
For a peaceful respite, Terceira Praia offers a more tranquil setting with beachfront restaurants and activities like kayaking in calm waters . A little further along, Quarta Praia unfolds an endless panorama of coconut palms and natural pools that emerge at low tide , perfect for snorkeling .
And if you're looking for total escape , Quinta Praia , also known as Praia do Encanto , is the perfect spot . Located away from the city center, it requires a two-hour walk through mangroves or a buggy or jeep ride. Its white sand and tranquility are the best reward for those seeking pure solitude .
Diving, history and nature
The charm of Morro de São Paulo doesn't end at the shore. The crystal-clear waters of its beaches, from Primera to Garapuá , are ideal for diving and snorkeling , both day and night. During the summer , visibility improves considerably, offering breathtaking underwater scenes teeming with marine life .
But the island also holds historical treasures peeking out from among the palm trees. The Farol do Morro lighthouse , built in 1855, offers unparalleled panoramic views . And the ruins of the Tapirandu Fortress , constructed in 1630, preserve the archipelago's colonial memory . Both structures are open to the public and are ideal for sunset photography walks .
When night falls, Morro de São Paulo awakens
During the day, Morro de São Paulo shines with natural light . But when the sun sets, the island vibrates to the rhythm of the tamborim and guitar . Nightlife is an essential part of the experience, especially between December and February , and also in July , during the school holidays in Brazil .
Mondays and Thursdays are luau days on Segunda Praia : spontaneous, open-air parties under the stars, with caipirinhas and sounds ranging from live music to electronic . On Wednesdays , in the Mangaba neighborhood, the Festa do Teatre (Theater Festival) comes alive, a bohemian and colorful gathering that blends art and joy in an alternative setting.
And if you prefer something more classic, Morro's nightclubs also organize events for all tastes, from Brazilian dances to international DJ sets .
Paradises of Brazil (Includes Morro de São Paulo) | 11 days, 10 nights
Eating in Morro de São Paulo: A sensory journey
Nighttime (any time, really) is also the perfect time to discover that the cuisine in Morro de São Paulo is as vibrant as its sea. Here, fresh seafood is king, and Afro-Brazilian flavors blend with time-honored techniques .
The star dish is moqueca baiana , a fish and shrimp stew cooked slowly with coconut milk , palm oil and vegetables, always accompanied by white rice .
Another must-try delicacy is bobó de camarão , where shrimp are mixed with cassava puree and spices . Acarajé , a fried bean fritter stuffed with shrimp and smothered in spicy sauce , is an explosion of flavor and culture . And if you're feeling adventurous, try casquinha de sirí , served directly in the crab's shell .
Everything tastes better with a caipirinha in hand. And in Morro , the exotic versions know no bounds: from cacao to biribiri , every ingredient and tropical fruit adds its special touch to Brazil's most famous drink .
Between parties , strolls , flavors , and landscapes , Morro de São Paulo is not just a destination : it's a multisensory experience that leaves a lasting impression . And once you feel the sand between your toes and hear the sound of the sea at sunset , you'll know you've arrived at the place where Bahia holds its best-kept secret .
You might also be interested in: Other attractions in Paris: Beyond the Eiffel Tower
