Cocoa Coast

The Cocoa Coast (Bahia) — beaches, nature and history

The Cocoa Coast, on the southern coast of Bahia, boasts idyllic beaches, unspoilt stretches of Atlantic Forest and the history of cocoa celebrated by Jorge Amado.

From Ilhéus to Itacaré, via Serra Grande (Uruçuca), Canavieiras and Una, you’ll find beaches, trails, waterfalls, cocoa farms and historical itineraries. Ideal for those seeking sun and sea, ecotourism, surfing and cultural experiences linked to cocoa production.

Find practical tips here on how to get there, the best times to visit, 1- to 7-day itineraries, guided tours and accommodation options — everything you need to plan your trip along the Cocoa Coast safely and make the most of it.

‘Cocoa
Cocoa Coast in Bahia

Main towns

  • Ilhéus — historic centre, cocoa plantations and urban beaches;
  • Itacaré — surfing, hiking trails and waterfalls;
  • Serra Grande (Uruçuca) — wild beaches and peaceful villages;
  • Canavieiras — rivers, mangroves and traditional fishing;
  • Una — ecotourism and access to nature reserves.

How to get there

  • By plane: Ilhéus Airport (nearest) with regional connections;
  • By bus/bus station: intercity routes connect Ilhéus, Itacaré and neighbouring towns;
  • By car: access via the BR‑101 and state roads (BA‑001/BA‑251) — it is recommended to check road conditions.

Must-see attractions

  • Visits to cocoa farms with tastings and learning about the process;
  • Hiking trails and waterfalls in Itacaré (recommended with a guide);
  • Iconic beaches: Praia do Norte (Itacaré), Praia do Sul (Ilhéus) and unspoilt coves;
  • Historical tours in Ilhéus linked to the culture and literature of Jorge Amado.
Catedral de São Sebastião em Ilhéus
Cocoa Coast

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Cocoa Coast

Serra Grande: Your Guide to Bahia’s Paradise

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Cocoa Coast

Municipality of Una: A Beach Paradise Awaits

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Itacaré
Cocoa Coast

Beaches and Waterfalls of Itacaré: A Hidden Gem

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Cocoa Coast

Canavieiras: A Hidden Gem in Bahia’s Coastline

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cacaueiro
Cocoa Coast

History of Cocoa: From Aztecs to Modern Use

When the first Spanish colonists arrived in the Americas, cacao was already being cultivated by the Indians, especially the Aztecs in Mexico and the Mayans in Central America. According to historians, the cacao tree, called cacahualt, was considered sacred. In Mexico, the Aztecs believed it to be of divine origin […]

Cocoa Coast

The best places to visit on the Cocoa Coast in Bahia

The Cocoa Coast is a region of exceptional scenic beauty that still preserves unspoilt natural landscapes. True ecological paradises make up this destination, always marked by the lush presence of the Atlantic Rainforest, considered by the world scientific community to be one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. […]