The best places to visit on the Cocoa Coast in Bahia

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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.

Costa do Cacau na Bahia — Cocoa Coast in Bahia

The Cocoa Coast includes the municipalities of Ilhéus, Itabuna, Uruçuca, Itacaré, Una, Canavieiras and Santa Luzia, forming an area of great historical and cultural importance.

The region is directly linked to three of Brazil’s major economic cycles: Brazilwood, sugar cane and cocoa.

Its enchanting landscapes evoke memories of the primitive lands that the Tupiniquin Indians were forced to cede to the Portuguese colonists in the 16th century.

This natural sanctuary is home to an impressive variety of landscapes: forests, rivers, waterfalls, rapids, trails, beaches, mangroves, mountains, caves, viewpoints, cocoa farms, ecological reserves, theme parks and nature reserves.

The abundance of sunshine adds to the experience.

In addition to this natural wealth, the Costa do Cacau has a valuable cultural heritage.

Among the highlights are the historic sites with their old mansions, chapels and churches, the old mills, the popular festivals, the religious traditions, the local handicrafts and the customs of the local people.

The typical cuisine, based on fish and shellfish, is also a major attraction.

But there’s more: the stories and legends preserved in the collective memory of the people, passed down from generation to generation by oral tradition. After all, Bahians have the soul of historians.

mapa da Costa do cacau na Bahia — Map of Bahia’s Cocoa Coast

Video of the Cocoa Coast in Bahia

COSTA DO CACAU E COSTA DO DENDÊ26:04

Ilhéus Vista de Cima14:14

Costa do Cacau na Bahia01:15

Itacaré - Drone

Praia de Taipu de Fora na Peninsula de Maraú03:16

Serra Grande na Bahia - Guia Turístico

Best places to visit on the Cocoa Coast

1. Ilhéus

The most famous city on the Costa do Cacau is Ilhéus, a destination full of beautiful beaches, incredible festivals and excellent cuisine. Considered the gateway to the region, it is a place that enchants and surprises visitors.

Ilhéus na Bahia — São Sebastião Cathedral in Ilhéus

The influence of Jorge Amado

Immortalised by Jorge Amado, Ilhéus attracts more and more travellers in search of breathtaking landscapes and the authentic beauty of Bahia.

Without a doubt, it’s the perfect destination to start an memorable journey along the Cocoa Coast.

Explore the historic centre

Start your journey by exploring the Historic Centre, where beautiful colonial mansions and centuries-old churches tell of the region’s rich history.

Two must-sees on this tour are the Cathedral of São Sebastião, symbol of the city, and the Municipal Theatre, an architectural treasure that enchants with its cultural performances and artistic exhibitions.

Teatro Municipal em Ilhéus — Ilhéus Municipal Theatre

Stunning beaches

Enjoy the tropical climate and stunning beaches of Ilhéus.

Praia dos Milionários em Ilhéus — Praia dos Milionários in Ilhéus

Praia dos Milionários is a popular destination for those who want to relax in the sun, take walks along the seafront and enjoy typical snacks from charming stalls.

If you’re looking for a quieter beach with warm, calm waters, Praia do Norte is equally fascinating.

Mapa das praias no sul da Bahia — Map of beaches in South Bahia

Jorge Amado Circuit

One of the most emblematic and unmissable tours in Ilhéus is the Jorge Amado Circuit, which takes visitors on a journey through the landscape that inspired the famous writer. Highlights include the Casa de Cultura Jorge Amado, the author’s former residence, and the Vesúvio Bar, one of the oldest in the city and famous for being quoted in the classic Gabriela, Cravo e Canela.

Yrerê Farm

Another unmissable stop is the Fazenda Yrerê, where you can learn about the cocoa production process, taste delicious handmade chocolates and admire the beauty of the cocoa plantations.

Enchanted lagoon

To round off your trip, visit Lagoa Encantada, a natural refuge with lush vegetation and crystal clear waters. Here you can take boat trips, swim and simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the place.

2. Itacaré

Itacaré is a haven of paradisiacal beaches on the coast of Bahia.

About 72 kilometres from Ilhéus, this former fishing village has become an essential tourist destination, offering excellent accommodation, gastronomy and entertainment.

Prainha em Itacaré, BA — Beach in Itacaré, BA

Cachoeira Tijuípe em Itacaré, BA — Tijuípe Waterfall in Itacaré, BA

Praia da Engenhoca - Itacaré, BA — Engenhoca Beach – Itacaré, BA

Be enchanted by the many ecotourism opportunities, explore trails surrounded by rivers and exuberant waterfalls, enjoy the trendy historic centre with its kiosks bustling at night, and relax on the region’s beautiful beaches.

You’ll fall in love with Itacaré!

3. Maraú

The Maraú district, also known as the Maraú Peninsula, is one of the most spectacular routes for those seeking peace and tranquillity.

Less popular than other destinations in the region, Maraú retains a calm atmosphere, ideal for those who want to relax in one of the most beautiful places in Bahia.

Piscinas naturais de Taipu de Fora, Maraú — Natural pools of Taipu de Fora, Maraú

In the late afternoon, it’s common to see capoeira circles in the main square, a unique cultural spectacle. A visit to the natural pools of Taipu de Fora is a must, where at low tide colourful fish make the scenery even more dazzling for divers.

4. Serra Grande

Nestled between the blue sea and the vibrant green of the south coast of Bahia lies Serra Grande.

This small village enchants with its immense coconut groves, refreshing waterfalls and long beaches with warm, virtually deserted waters.

Serra Grande na Bahia — Serra Grande in Bahia

But Serra Grande is much more than a stunning viewpoint – it’s a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and contact with nature in a region recognised as a World Natural Heritage Site.

From Ilhéus to Itacaré, a stop at the Serra Grande viewpoint is a must to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the coast with its calm blue waters and the city of Ilhéus (30 kilometres away) in the background.

The village of Serra Grande, situated 80 metres above sea level, is very close to the viewpoint and is also worth a visit, offering a welcoming atmosphere and unforgettable views.

Other tourist attractions on the Cocoa Coast

Bahia.ws is the largest tourist guide to Bahia and Salvador.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 28/11/2012 · Updated on 29/07/2025