Camamu Bay: An Ecological Paradise in Brazil

Camamu Bay: An ecological paradise in the heart of Bahia

Camamu Bay is an ecological paradise located between Morro de São Paulo and Itacaré.

It is the third largest bay in Brazil, after Guanabara Bay in Rio de Janeiro and Todos os Santos Bay in Salvador.

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

Pristine ecosystem

What makes this region special is its pristine ecosystem, preserved despite the rapid growth of areas to the north and south. The region has remained free from pollution and commercial development, allowing its inhabitants to continue to live with a low environmental impact.

Local traditions

Until recently, the water of the bay was the main source of food and transport for the locals. Their traditional canoes, carved from tree trunks, are still in use, keeping alive a centuries-old practice.

Exploring biodiversity

To explore the biodiversity and ecological wonders of Camamu Bay, it’s best to hire a speedboat and explore its maze of rivers, canals and islands, especially in the southern part. Camamu Bay is probably the largest area of undeveloped mangrove forest in the world.

While shrimp farming has devastated mangroves in other parts of the world, this region has remained intact due to its limited accessibility. Fortunately, Brazil has designated much of this area as an Environmental Preservation Area (APA), guaranteeing its protection from degradation.

The town of Camamu

The main starting point for exploring the bay is the town of Camamu, located on the banks of the Acaraí River and surrounded by vast mangrove swamps. Originally inhabited by the Macamamus Indians, its history dates back to 1560, when the Jesuits built the Hermitage of Our Lady of the Assumption of Macamamu, from which the town takes its name.

Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção em Camamu — Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in the city of Camamu

One of the oldest cities in Brazil, Camamu was once the largest producer of manioc flour in the country. The city, like Salvador, was built on two levels; the upper part is home to colonial buildings, the Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção (18th century) and old mansions.

Viewpoints and vistas

The Viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Camamu Bay and its mangroves. In the lower town you can see the Market, the Port and the old City Hall and Jail, dating from 1693.

Surrounding Towns and Villages

Around Camamu Bay there are important towns and villages such as Barra Grande, known for its paradisiacal beaches; Maraú, famous for the natural pools of Taipu de Fora; Travessão, a strategic crossing point; and Igrapiúna, which preserves local traditions and natural beauty.

Nature activities

For those who want to enjoy the nature, there are boat trips to explore the unspoilt islands, preserved forests and small traditional villages. Another option is to head for the paradisiacal beaches, waterfalls and mangroves of Barra Grande.

A perfect destination

Camamu Bay is home to a variety of islands, beaches and well-preserved forests. With constant winds and deep, calm waters, it is a perfect destination for sailing and offers several safe anchorage points.

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

See the map of the Dendê Coast

Videos of 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

Attractions in Camamu Bay

Still little explored by mass tourism, the region preserves an unspoilt ecosystem of lush mangroves, rivers, paradisiacal islands and rich biodiversity.

Camamu – Camamu is the main town on the shores of the bay and an important embarkation point for those wishing to explore its islands and beaches. With a colonial historic centre, the town preserves buildings such as the 18th-century Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção. In the past, Camamu was one of the largest producers of manioc flour in Brazil. From the upper part of the town you can enjoy a panoramic view of the bay, surrounded by extensive mangroves. The town’s port is busy and is the main link to Barra Grande and other towns in the region.
Vila de Barra Grande – The village has a rustic charm, with sandy streets, cosy inns and a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The Sunset at Ponta do Mutá is one of the most famous in Bahia and there are restaurants and bars on the seafront. The village of Barra Grande is also the starting point for boat trips around the bay’s islands and to the Tremembé Waterfall.
Camamu Bay Island Tours– The best way to explore this natural wonder is by boat. You can hire a speedboat or a boat from the harbours of Camamu and Barra Grande. During the high season, schooners organise trips for groups. It is best to leave in the morning to make the most of the day.
Pedra Furada Island – Located 30 minutes from Barra Grande and 1 hour from Camamu, this island has a rock formation carved by erosion, creating a “pierced” stone. Its crystal clear waters and tranquillity make it an excellent place to relax. There is only one restaurant on the island, serving typical local food.
Campinho – A village just 3 kilometres from Barra Grande, famous for hosting the writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry in the 1930s. Its deep waters were even considered for an industrial port, which was eventually moved to Ilhéus. With reefs full of fish, it is one of the best places in the bay for snorkelling.
Sapinho and Ilha do Goió – The village of Sapinho, surrounded by mangroves, is a must for those taking the schooner trip. Small bars and restaurants serve grilled fish, crab, lobster and moquecas. Opposite, separated by a narrow arm of the sea, is Ilha do Goió, with deserted beaches and calm waters.
Ilha Grande – At 4 km², this is the largest and most inhabited island in the bay, with around 1,500 inhabitants. It has a small port, several restaurants and beaches with calm waters. At the northern tip stands Prainha, a true paradise. Curiously, there are no cars on the island and its roads are just walking trails.
Tremembé Waterfall – One of the most impressive places in Camamu Bay. The only way to get there is by speed boat, which takes visitors directly under the waterfall. The waterfall flows into the sea and mixes fresh water from the Atlantic Forest with the warm, brackish water of the bay, creating a unique experience for swimming and playing.

With its constant winds and calm waters, Camamu Bay is perfect for those looking for a paradisiacal, unspoilt and adventurous destination.

Whether exploring its islands and waterfalls, savouring the local cuisine or simply contemplating the breathtaking scenery, this jewel of the Bahian coast promises an unforgettable experience.