The Ilha de Maré is one of the islands that make up the Baía de Todos os Santos archipelago in Bahia, and is located about 30 minutes by boat from Salvador.
Covering an area of approximately 14 square kilometres, the island is a true natural and cultural paradise, offering a preserved and traditional environment with little urban interference.
It is part of the municipality of Salvador, but its proximity to the municipalities of Candeias and Madre de Deus makes it easier to reach from there.
See the map of Todos os Santos Bay
Videos of Maré Island in Bahia
Ilha de Maré - Reportagem03:06
Ilha de Maré na Bahia - Guia de Turismo
Drone na Ilha de Mare, Praia das Neves03:23
Natural features
The Ilha de Maré is known for its rich vegetation, which includes Atlantic forest, banana plantations, mango trees, coconut trees and sugar cane, used in the production of local handicrafts such as basketry.
Its beaches are of great natural beauty, with the highlights being Santana Beach, Praia Grande, Itamoabo and Praia das Neves, which are characterised by clear, calm waters, ideal for swimming and schooner trips. In some of them, the presence of mangroves and rocks creates picturesque landscapes.
The island’s mangroves play an important role in the local ecosystem, providing shelter and food for various species of birds, fish and crustaceans. Fish and Crustaceans.
The marine environment is attractive to those who enjoy fishing and it is common to find sea bass, mullet and carapeba.
Communities and culture
The Ilha de Maré has 12 villages, the main ones being Santana, Praia Grande and Itamoabo, where traditions and a simple way of life prevail.
The local culture is strongly influenced by handicrafts, especially Bilro lace, a tradition maintained by generations of lace makers.
Bamboo handicrafts and the production of the famous banana jam are other cultural features of the island.
The island also preserves a rich religious heritage with its historic churches, such as the 19th century Church of Nossa Senhora de Santana and the 16th century Church of Nossa Senhora das Neves, one of the oldest religious landmarks in the region.
Tourist attractions on Maré Island
Despite its modest infrastructure, Ilha de Maré is very popular with tourists seeking a peaceful retreat in close contact with nature and traditional culture.
Schooner tours of the Bay of All Saints often stop at the island, and one of the most picturesque attractions is the so-called “jeguetour”, where visitors can explore the rural areas and villages on donkeys, as there are no motor vehicles on the island.
As well as beautiful beaches, visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of the villages, panoramic views of the bay and the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood dishes such as traditional caruru, moqueca and fish stews.
- Praia Grande Village – To this day it is possible to find descendants of slaves who communicate in ancient African dialects that have been preserved over the centuries. Here you will find artisans who use straw and sugar cane – brava to make baskets and other handicrafts, known for their rich creativity and beauty. This village also sells the famous banana candy on straw, a typical delicacy of the Island of Maré.
- Santana Beach – One of the most popular beaches, with calm waters ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Surrounded by lace makers and artisans, it offers a cultural experience beyond contact with nature.
- Itamoabo Beach – Known for its calm waters and rustic scenery. It is common to see locals offering visitors coconut water and donkeys for rides around the island.
- Praia Grande – With a long stretch of sand and calm waters, it is excellent for swimming and relaxing. There are also beach huts serving local dishes.
- Praia das Neves – Approximately 300 metres long, its waters are clear and the sea is calm, ideal for families and those seeking a more secluded environment.
These beaches are surrounded by rich Atlantic Forest vegetation and mangroves, offering stunning scenery and diving in a preserved environment.
Traditions and way of life
The inhabitants of Ilha de Maré still maintain a simple lifestyle, with strong links to artisanal fishing and handicrafts, especially rendeiras de bilro, which produce fine lace such as towels and curtains, sold both locally and to visitors.
Fishing with nets in colourful canoes is also a common practice among the island’s men and an important source of income.
A place “forgotten by time
Because of its natural preservation and peaceful lifestyle, Ilha de Maré is often described as a place “forgotten by time”, where old traditions are still very much alive and the pace of life is slower, offering visitors an authentic experience.
How to get to Maré Island
The main means of access to the island is by boat, departing from various points in Salvador and neighbouring towns such as Candeias and Madre de Deus.
The journey to the island takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on your starting point, and offers beautiful views of the Bay of All Saints along the way.
Bahia.ws is the largest tourist guide for Bahia and Salvador.
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