The beaches near Salvador offer much more than just warm waters and coconut groves: they combine history, natural pools, surfing, ecotourism and good facilities for families and travellers. Below is a selection of easily accessible beaches, with their approximate distance from Salvador, main attractions and practical tips.
Melhores praias nos arredores de Salvador BA
Recommended beaches (from the closest to the furthest from Salvador)
- Vilas do Atlântico Beach — 30 km
- Jauá Beach — 30 km
- Praia de Arembepe — 30 km
- Guarajuba Beach — 42 km
- Barra do Jacuípe — 50 km
- Praia do Forte — 56 km
- Itacimirim Beach — 60 km
- Imbassaí Beach — ~70 km
1. Vilas do Atlântico Beach — 30 km
Location: Lauro de Freitas.
Why go: a long stretch of sand, beach huts, good facilities and waves for surfing.
Crowds: locals and those looking to avoid the crowds during the week.
Tip: avoid peak times at weekends; there are paid car parks and transport by bus/minibus.
2. Jauá Beach — 30 km
Why go: a wide stretch of sand, calm waters ideal for families, and a lively sunset with bars along the seafront.
Crowd: young people and families.
Tip: arrive early on public holidays and explore the seaside bars at dusk.
Popular with young people, especially at dusk, Jauá Beach has a wide stretch of sand and calm waters, making it ideal for families. The seafront is home to a number of bars and restaurants.
3. Praia de Arembepe — 30 km
Why go: an alternative/hippie vibe, arts and crafts, natural pools at low tide and surfing at specific spots; home to the Tamar Project.
Tip: visit craft fairs and local studios.
4. Guarajuba Beach — 42 km
Location: Camaçari (via Estrada do Coco).
Why go: beautiful stretches of sand, coconut groves, calm waters and a good selection of beach huts.
Who goes: families and cyclists (there are cycle paths).
Tip: make the most of the seafront for meals and take water and a hat on days when the sun is strong.
5. Barra do Jacuípe — 50 km
Why go: unspoilt nature, sand dunes and the point where the Jacuípe River meets the sea; rough seas for surfing and the river for kayaking and fishing.
Tip: facilities are more basic in some areas; take water and sun cream with you.
6. Praia do Forte — 56 km
Location: Mata de São João.
Why go: a former fishing village transformed into a tourist hub with natural pools, the Tamar Project, shops, bars and accommodation options (resorts and guesthouses).
Attractions: turtle watching, boat trips to the natural pools and a culinary tour.
How to get there: by car via the Estrada do Coco (BA-099) or direct bus; ideal for a day trip or an overnight stay.
7. Itacimirim Beach — 60 km
Location: between Praia do Forte and Imbassaí.
Why go: natural pools at low tide, spots with good waves and a family-friendly atmosphere; where the River Pojuca meets the sea.
Tip: check the tide table to make the most of the natural pools.
8. Imbassaí Beach — ~70 km
Why go: where the river meets the sea, lagoons, good tourist facilities and a range of activities (boating, ecotourism).
Tip: a great place to stay, with boat trips and activities for families.
How to get there
- By car: Estrada do Coco (BA-099) is the main route to Praia do Forte, Guarajuba and Itacimirim.
- Buses: Intercity buses depart from Salvador Bus Station; please check timetables.
- Excursions: Local agencies offer daily tours with transport included.
- Travel time: varies from around 30 minutes (Vilas do Atlântico, Jauá, Arembepe) to around 1–1½ hours (Praia do Forte, Imbassaí), depending on traffic.
Best time to visit
Visit at any time of year. Peak seasons (December to February, public holidays) are busier. For natural pools, go at low tide: check the tide table before you set off.
Infrastructure and security
- Several beaches have kiosks, toilets and car parks; some are more rustic.
- Please pay attention to safety signs and lifeguards; avoid swimming in areas with strong currents.
- Bring sun cream, water and some small change — not all kiosks accept cards.
Suggested itineraries
- Day trip: Vilas do Atlântico + Jauá or Guarajuba.
- 1–2 nights: Praia do Forte (Tamar Project + natural pools).
- 2–3 nights: Imbassaí or Arembepe, combining beach, river and local culture.
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