Camamu Bay — A Hidden Paradise in Bahia

Published on November 30, 2012 · Updated on May 19, 2026

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Camamu Bay is one of the largest bays on the Brazilian coast, situated on the Costa do Dendê, between Morro de São Paulo and Itacaré.

Known for its well-preserved mangrove forests, unspoilt islands and rich biodiversity, the region is ideal for sustainable tourism, boat trips and authentic cultural experiences.

Pedra Furada na Baia de Camamu — Pedra Furada in Camamu Bay

Ecosystem and conservation

Camamu Bay is home to extensive mangrove forests and remnants of the Atlantic Forest. Much of the region is protected as a conservation area (APA), which helps to preserve the ecosystem and the traditional practices of local communities.

Local traditions

The communities around the bay preserve traditional practices, such as the use of dugout canoes and small-scale fishing, ensuring minimal environmental impact and a way of life closely tied to the sea.

Videos about Camamu Bay

Baia de Camamu e Peninsula de Marau10:15

Baía de Camamu na Bahia01:58

Baía de Camamu e Península de Maraú03:47

Ilha do Goió na Baía de Camamu

Ilha da Pedra Furada na Baía de Camamu04:56

Ilha da Pedra Furada, Ilha Grande e Cajaíba15:14

Baía de Camamu - Guia Turístico18:41

Vista aérea de Campinho, Peninsula de Marau, Bahia

Campinho Peninsula de Marau05:05

How to explore the bay

The best way to explore Camamu Bay is by boat: hire a motorboat, join a schooner tour or book a private trip to explore the rivers, canals and islands. It is advisable to set off in the morning to make the most of the day, and to check the tides and local conditions before setting sail.

mapa da Baía de Camamu BA — Map of Camamu Bay, Bahia

See the map of the Dendê Coast

Top attractions

Camamu — the main departure point, featuring a colonial historic centre, viewing points and the Parish Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção.
Barra Grande (Maraú) — a charming village with idyllic beaches, guesthouses and stunning sunsets at Ponta do Mutá.
Ilha da Pedra Furada — an iconic rock formation featuring a natural arch; a common stop on boat trips.
Ilha Grande — the bay’s largest island, car-free, with quiet beaches, walking trails and guesthouses.
Sapinho and Ilha do Goió — deserted beaches, mangroves and local cuisine (fish, crab, moqueca).
Campinho — reefs and diving spots; local history and unspoilt landscapes.
Tremembé Waterfall — a waterfall that flows into the sea; usually accessible by motorboat and a popular spot for swimming at the base of the falls (check the tide).

Cidade de Camamu BA — City of Camamu, Bahia

Ilha do Goió - Passeios pelas Ilhas da Baía de Camamu — Goió Island – Tours of the Islands in Camamu Bay

Vila de Barra Grande na Península de Maraú — The village of Barra Grande on the Maraú Peninsula

Píer da Vila de Barra Grande, por onde chegam os turistas que escolhem viajar pelo mar — The pier at Barra Grande, where tourists who choose to travel by sea arrive

Ilha da Pedra Furada na Baía de Camamu — Pedra Furada Island in Camamu Bay

Practical tips

Main access: Camamu town (bus station/transfer service) with departures to the islands; there are also departures from Barra Grande.
Bring sun cream, insect repellent, water, a snorkel and walking shoes.
Book tours with operators who adopt sustainable practices and respect protected areas.
Check the tide table before visiting the natural pools and the Tremembé Waterfall.

Cuisine

Try the local cuisine: moquecas, fresh fish, crabs and seafood served in restaurants on the islands and in the villages along the bay.

Historical information

The town of Camamu has colonial origins and a history dating back to the Jesuit period; the Parish Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção is a landmark of the local heritage.

Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção na cidade de Camamu — Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in the town of Camamu

Conclusion

Camamu Bay is ideal for those seeking unspoilt nature, water sports and an authentic cultural experience. Steady winds, calm waters and natural shelters make the bay perfect for sailing, diving and relaxing on unspoilt beaches.

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 →