All Saints Bay

All Saints Bay: Natural Beauty and History

The Bay of All Saints combines lush nature and historical monuments in one of Brazil’s most enchanting destinations. Islands, forts and cities reveal the vibrant soul of Bahia, offering beaches, culture and unforgettable experiences by the sea.

Enchanting islands in the Bay of All Saints

Each island has unique landscapes, history and beaches perfect for relaxing.

  • Itaparica Island: tranquil beaches, medicinal waters and a historic centre with colonial churches and old houses.
  • Ilha dos Frades: crystal clear sea, preserved Atlantic Forest and the historic Church of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe (17th century).
  • Ilha de Maré: Afro-Brazilian traditions, fishing communities, and beaches such as Praia de Botelho and Praia das Neves.
Mapa da Baía de Todos os Santos
Panorama of Todos os Santos Bay with islands and sea

Historical monuments and forts in the bay

Fortifications and architectural complexes that tell the story of the region.

  • Fort of São Marcelo: the only round fort in the Americas, known as the “Fort of the Sea”.
  • Fort of Santo Antônio da Barra: home to the Barra Lighthouse, an icon of Salvador.
  • Solar do Unhão: colonial complex on the shores of the bay, home to the Bahia Museum of Modern Art.
  • Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia: one of the oldest churches in Salvador, near the pier.
Forte de São Marcelo, Baía de Todos os Santos
Fort of São Marcelo, Bay of All Saints

Historic towns and local culture

  • Salvador: Brazil’s first capital — Pelourinho, Lacerda Lift and Mercado Modelo facing the bay.
  • Cachoeira: a listed city with colonial architecture on the banks of the Paraguaçu River.
  • Itaparica: history, local culture and beautiful beaches.

Nautical experiences and activities

Activities for all tastes and ages:

  • Schooner trips around the islands.
  • Diving on reefs and shipwrecks.
  • Water sports: sailing and stand-up paddleboarding.
  • Gastronomy: moqueca, acarajé and seafood by the sea.

Plan your visit

For more information, see our Bahia Tourism Guide

All Saints Bay

Bahia Pantanal: A Hidden Ecological Gem

Bahia Pantanal Ecological Reserve: A natural paradise of rivers, beaches and biodiversity The Pantanal Baiano Ecological Sanctuary is a fascinating place formed by the mouth of several rivers, including the Jaguaripe River, as well as beaches and the Atlantic Forest. Access to the Pantanal Access to the reserve is via […]

All Saints Bay

Documentary about Itaparica Island na Bahia

The Island of Itaparica was discovered by Europeans on 1 November 1501 by Amerigo Vespucci, along with the Bay of All Saints. However, the island was already occupied by the Tupinambá Indians. European occupation The European occupation of the island of Itaparica began with a small settlement founded by the […]

All Saints Bay

Candeias: History of the Feast of Our Lady

The town of Candeias, located in the bay of Todos os Santos, attracts thousands of worshippers and revellers every year during the religious festival of Nossa Senhora das Candeias, a celebration that mixes the sacred and the profane, accompanied by much joy and excitement. The colonisation of the region began […]

All Saints Bay

Main islands of Todos os Santos Bay

Todos os Santos Bay is the second largest bay in the world and the largest on the Brazilian coast. Discovered on 1st November 1501, the bay was named to coincide with All Saints Day. Located in the state of Bahia, Todos os Santos Bay is a depression in the Brazilian […]