Home » Bahia Travel Guide » Taipu de Fora: Discovering Natural Pools

Taipu de Fora Beach is located on the Maráu Peninsula, on the Dendê Coast, in the south of Bahia, between Morro de São Paulo and Itacaré.

Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, Taipu de Fora stands out for its natural pool, about one kilometre long, full of colourful fish and coral formations.

During the summer, night dives with torches are organised, offering a unique experience to observe the nocturnal marine fauna. In winter, although there is more frequent rainfall, the tours continue as normal.

The best times for snorkelling are during the new and full moon, when the tide is low and the natural pools are exposed.

The beach’s paradisiacal setting is impressive: pale blue sea, golden sand and coconut trees as far as the eye can see. You can enjoy this view from the loungers at the bars and kiosks serving refreshing snacks and drinks.

The highlight of Taipu de Fora is its natural pool, which forms at low tide about one kilometre from the coast. With just a mask and snorkel, visitors can admire the exuberant marine life.

The beach is located 7 kilometres from the village of Barra Grande. It can be reached by jardineira (a transport vehicle that leaves near the Barra Grande jetty) or on foot, a two-hour walk along the coast.

The Maráu Peninsula has more than 40 kilometres of beaches that are virtually deserted all year round. Even in the summer, when the inns are full, the beaches remain quiet as the holidaymakers spread out along the extensive coastline of coconut groves.

See the map of the Dendê Coast

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Taipu de Fora na Peninsula de Maraú02:40

Taipu de Fora - Drone

PONTA DO MUTÁ, TAIPÚ DE FORA E PASSEIO DE BARCO05:05

Tourist Attractions in the Taipu de Fora Beach Region

1. Barra Grande

Barra Grande is a quiet and charming village that is gradually gaining popularity and becoming one of the most popular New Year’s Eve destinations in Bahia.

Located on the Dendê Coast, about 150 kilometres from Ilhéus, the region enchants visitors with its beautiful natural pools, white sand and a climate of total tranquillity.

The largest village on the Maráu Peninsula, Barra Grande, still preserves its caiçara simplicity, although it is the place with the best tourist infrastructure, with its many inns, bars and restaurants.

Several inns offer 4×4 vehicles, speedboats and catamarans for excursions around the region. One of the most famous tours is the boat trip around the islands of the peninsula.

2. Sapinho Island

On Sapinho Island, one of the obligatory stops for lunch, the gastronomic highlight is the guaiamum, a blue crab, served fresh and tasty.

3. Tremembé Waterfall

Another must-see is the Tremembé Waterfall, the only waterfall in Brazil that flows directly into the sea.

The boat comes so close to the waterfall that visitors can touch the waterfall before disembarking.

4. Ponta do Mutá

Ponta do Mutá is one of the most enchanting spots on the Maraú Peninsula, near the village of Barra Grande. Known for its spectacular sunsets, it is one of the most popular places to watch the sun set over the horizon of Camamu Bay.

Ponta do Mutá beach has calm seas, crystal clear waters and fine sand, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. The area has bars and restaurants by the sea, perfect for enjoying drinks and seafood while taking in the paradisiacal scenery.

At low tide, natural pools form, making it an even more special place for snorkelling. At night, Ponta do Mutá retains its cosy atmosphere, with some bars offering live music and a relaxed atmosphere under the stars.

Protecting the environment

The Maráu Peninsula is part of the Maráu APA (Environmental Protection Area), which is part of the Atlantic Rainforest Biosphere Reserve. For this reason, there are special environmental protection laws to protect its unique ecosystems.

The city of Maráu, after which the region is named, is located in the south of the peninsula, far from the beaches. It was founded in 1705 by Italian friars who settled in the indigenous village of Mayra-hú. The site still preserves historic churches, colonial houses and the ruins of a 19th century paraffin factory.

Tourist guide to Taipu de Fora in Bahia

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 12/02/2015 · Updated on 18/06/2025

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