Home » Bahia Travel Guide » Ponta de Humaitá — Lighthouse, church and the best sunset in Salvador

Ponta de Humaitá is one of the most charming spots in Salvador, situated near Monte Serrat Fort on the Itapagipe peninsula.

With a stunning view of Todos os Santos Bay, the spot is particularly renowned for its unforgettable sunsets.

In the courtyard that juts out over the sea, there is a church, a convent and a lighthouse, creating one of the most picturesque scenes in the region.

Ponta de Humaitá is renowned for its cultural diversity and spontaneous religious gatherings, such as masses and Candomblé samba circles.

Visitors enjoy the calm sea, the architectural beauty of the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte Serrat and the area’s history, which includes Monte Serrat Fort, built in the 16th century to defend against Dutch invasions.

Since 1993, the fort has housed the Armoury Museum, which boasts a collection of historical weapons.

Ponta de Humaitá thus offers an experience that combines natural beauty, culture and history.

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Ponta de Humaitá em Salvador da Bahia03:40

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Places of Interest in Ponta de Humaitá

Ponta de Humaitá, in Salvador, is a charming destination offering a variety of tourist attractions for visitors.

1. Humaitá Lighthouse

The Humaitá Lighthouse, opened in 1935, is the third and last lighthouse to be built in Salvador. Located at Ponta de Humaitá on the Itapagipana Peninsula, it stands out for its simple, charming design, featuring a white cylindrical tower that blends in with the surrounding landscape.

It is the only lighthouse situated within Todos os Santos Bay, offering spectacular views and serving as a popular spot for watching the sunset.

With a narrower field of view compared to the lighthouses at Barra and Itapuã, the Humaitá Lighthouse forms part of the region’s architectural complex and is under the care of the Army’s Regional Maintenance Park.

2. Church of Our Lady of Monte Serrat

This small, old church is an architectural and religious landmark in the region. It is a place where the faithful gather for masses and religious events, offering an atmosphere of peace and spirituality.

The original shrine of Nossa Senhora do Monte Serrat was founded around 1580. The architectural complex dates from the second half of the 17th century and was designed by the Italian architect Baccio de Filicaya.

The church was built by the Governor-General of Brazil, Francisco de Souza, at the same time as he built the Fort of São Felipe. Francisco de Souza donated the church to the Monastery of São Bento.

In the early 20th century, it was renovated and the high altar was adorned with ornaments from the Church of São Bento. It houses a statue of Saint Peter the Penitent, created by Friar Agostinho da Piedade.

3. Monte Serrat Fort or São Felipe Fort

One of the best-preserved forts in Salvador, built in the 16th century. This military monument offers an insight into the city’s history and is now home to the Armoury Museum, which houses a collection of civilian and military weapons.

Ponta de Humaitá is situated near the Fort of Monte Serrat, also known as São Felipe, a 16th-century structure which, thanks to its harmonious lines, is considered the most beautiful military monument in Bahia.

Construction began in 1583 at a strategic location at the tip of the headland, and the building was completed in 1742 without any alterations to its original design.

Since 1993, it has housed the Armoury Museum, which displays civilian and military weapons, some of which were used by the Army in the past.

From this fort, one has the best view of the entrance to the Bay of Todos os Santos, with Salvador on one side and Itaparica Island on the other.

Bahia.ws – Tourist Guide to Salvador, Bahia and the Northeast

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 18/05/2026 · Updated on 15/08/2026

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