by Answering the question of which are the best beaches in Salvador is a difficult task. After all, the capital of Bahia has around 50 km of beaches. Therefore, there is sea and sand for all tastes and in various neighborhoods of the city.
Thinking of those of you planning a trip to Salvador, or if you already live in the city and want advice on which beach to visit today, read this list and watch the video I made for you. my YouTube channel showing you some of them to help you decide.
What you should know about the beaches of Salvador.
I visited some beaches in Salvador and noticed some common characteristics: after the beach kiosks were demolished a few years ago, almost all of them now only have their natural formation, that is, sand and sea.
Therefore, if you want to eat and drink something, you have two options: after diving, go to the sidewalks and get a coconut water or a snack from the kiosks set up there. Or bring your own food. But be aware: take all your trash with you.
Let's stop thinking that the job of garbage collectors is simply to pick up your trash from the sand. In reality, their function is to keep the city clean by collecting garbage bags. Therefore, when you leave packaging, plastic cups, and other disposable materials, you are harming the environment.
At the time this post was published, I realized that coconut water has an R$ of between 3 and 3.50. I highly recommend drinking it after a hike or swim. It's a wonderful sensation.
Generally, there is a charge for renting chairs and umbrellas from those who provide them on the beach.
With these warnings out of the way, let's get down to business.
What are the best beaches in Salvador?
Porto da Barra
In 2007, the British newspaper The Guardian chose Porto da Barra as one of the best beaches in the world. In other words, the crystal-clear waters, calm sea, and views of the Santa Maria and São Diogo Forts have been impressing for a long time.
Furthermore, it's possible to see the Barra Lighthouse, one of Salvador's iconic landmarks. The sidewalks and balustrade are charming and an essential part of the area's scenery.
Barra Lighthouse
Like its "neighboring area," it's quite popular. It has a long stretch of sand in its favor, but on weekends it seems like it's not enough. However, there's a part of the beach that's becoming a hit on Instagram: the Mermaid's Hole.
It's a rock formation that, on a sunny day, gives the water a beautiful color and makes the lighthouse look stunning. But many people don't know about it or how to get there. That's why I... this tutorial that will help you.
São Tomé de Paripe
Considered the last beach in Salvador, São Tomé de Paripe is just as beautiful as the Caribbean. It's located in the suburbs, therefore far from the city center. If you're a tourist staying for several days, it's worth including in your itinerary and reserving one of those days to enjoy this beach and, perhaps, take the ferry to reach [the other beach]. Neves Beach, which is also beautiful and worth a visit.
When I went, I felt an incredible energy of peace. Admiring the sunset, the silence that prevailed at that moment, since there was practically no one on the sand, is an unforgettable feeling.
Below is a sample taken by Belezas do Subúrbio.
Patience Beach
Located in Rio Vermelho, it has a very large sandy area and is ideal for those who enjoy exclusively relaxing in the sea. After all, there are no beach bars and few vendors offering anything to eat or drink.
But the view is very beautiful. It's worth paying attention to the sea conditions. The times I've passed by, it's been rough, but it's certainly the best place to swim in the neighborhood.
Ondina
This beach is ideal for those seeking tranquility. Early in the morning, the sea is shallow and even forms "pools," providing an ideal swimming experience for all ages.
Parking spaces with many options for you to leave your car.
Garden of Lovers and Garden of Allah
For those staying between Pituba and Boca do Rio, this could be an excellent option. Additionally, there's an area with massage therapists for those who want one after physical activity, for example. Unfortunately, I forgot to ask how much the service costs.
If you've already done it, leave a comment telling us how much you paid.
Jaguaribe, Piatã and Itapuã
I included all three because they are neighbors and there's practically no clear division between them. What caught my attention when I was in Piatã was the number of parking spaces available. Although there's a fee, there are many options for leaving your car.
In addition, parking is also available along the track.
In this area, the stretch of sand is large and the sea varies between calm and rough. Therefore, keep an eye on the sea conditions to decide how you will swim there.
Itapuã has the attraction of the charming lighthouse, which is also a hit on Instagram.
If you want to see some of these beaches up close, watch the video below.
What are your favorite beaches in Salvador?
Did you like the list? Leave a comment telling us which ones you were interested in and your recommendations. For more tips about Salvador, Follow me on Instagram. And to have a ready-made itinerary to enjoy the city for several days, Buy my e-book For just R$ 18, save time on your planning.
I also think Porto da Barra is incredible; in fact, I like the vibe of the neighborhood. But, since I live in Mussurunga, I end up going to the beaches of Stella Maris and Praia do Flamengo.
Boa Viagem beach is great and the view from Forte do Humaitá is simply breathtaking.
I love all these beaches... I miss them so much because I'm far away, but I hope to visit soon.
I've lived in Brasília for 15 years.