The 11 Best Beaches in Itacaré: A Complete Guide to Bahia’s Natural Paradise
Explore the 11 best beaches in Itacaré, Bahia. A complete guide with trails, nature highlights and essential tips to plan your trip and enjoy this tropical paradise.
11/21/20254 min read
1. Praia da Concha — Calm waters and the best infrastructure
Praia da Concha is one of Itacaré’s most popular beaches thanks to its calm, shallow waters protected by the mouth of the Rio de Contas. The beach feels like a giant natural pool, making it perfect for families and anyone seeking a relaxing swim. With great restaurants, beach bars and a breathtaking sunset, it’s also one of the most convenient areas for travelers staying near the city center or booking vacation rentals.
2. Praia do Resende — Small, charming and perfect for relaxing
Praia do Resende is a small hidden gem surrounded by palm trees and natural shade. With its peaceful atmosphere and soft waves, it’s ideal for beginners in surfing or visitors who simply want a quiet day in a postcard-perfect setting. The rustic charm and proximity to town also make the surrounding area appealing for seasonal rentals.
3. Praia da Tiririca — Surf hotspot and youthful energy
Known as Itacaré’s surfing capital, Praia da Tiririca has strong, consistent waves that attract surfers from around the world. The energy is vibrant, youthful and artistic, with local competitions, music and a relaxed beach culture. Though the sea is rough, the beach is stunning and ideal for anyone drawn to a more alternative, surf-inspired lifestyle.
4. Praia da Ribeira — Nature, river and adventure in one place
Praia da Ribeira blends river, sea and forest in a breathtaking natural setting. The calm waters and small river forming natural pools make it perfect for swimming, while its lush surroundings create a serene atmosphere. It’s also the starting point for trails leading to more remote beaches, making it a favorite among nature lovers.
5. Prainha — The most iconic and photographed beach in Itacaré
Often ranked among Brazil’s most beautiful beaches, Prainha is reached through a scenic 40-minute hike. The reward is a stunning bay framed by palm trees and untouched Atlantic Forest, with clear waters and great waves for surfing. Its preserved, cinematic landscape makes it one of Itacaré’s most unforgettable spots.
6. Engenhoca — A paradise for surfers and nature lovers
Engenhoca is a wild, beautifully preserved beach accessed via a gentle trail. Its golden sand, perfect intermediate-level waves and peaceful environment make it ideal for visitors seeking quiet and connection with nature. The soundtrack of birds, wind and sea adds to its magical vibe.
7. Havaizinho — Rustic, intimate and full of charm
Havaizinho shares the same trail access as Engenhoca but has its own distinct personality. Small and intimate, it combines rocky cliffs, dense vegetation and strong waves, attracting surfers and travelers who enjoy a more alternative, relaxed beach atmosphere. It’s also a great spot for photos, meditation and long coastal walks.
8. Itacarezinho — Long, elegant and naturally stunning
Despite its name, Itacarezinho (“Little Itacaré”) is one of the region’s largest and most impressive beaches. With miles of sand bordered by coconut trees and powerful waves, it offers an atmosphere of tranquility and luxury. The beach is home to boutique hotels and beach clubs, attracting travelers seeking a more refined experience.
9. Jeribucaçu — The perfect meeting of river and sea
Jeribucaçu is one of the most striking beaches in Itacaré, known for the river that flows into the ocean and creates shallow pools and beautiful reflections. The trail leading to the beach offers scenic viewpoints, and the area is ideal for paddleboarding, photography and spending the whole day enjoying nature. It’s a wildly beautiful, unforgettable place.
10. São José — Exclusive, peaceful and beautifully preserved
Located within a private area, São José is one of Itacaré’s most exclusive beaches. With clean waters, white sand and preserved Atlantic Forest, it offers a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. Its exclusivity makes it especially appealing to travelers looking for a premium, quiet experience.
11. Pontal — Sunset views and adventure sports
Pontal is famous for having one of the most beautiful sunsets in the region. The scenery combines river, mangroves, dunes and open sea, making it perfect for kiteboarding and other water sports. Access is partly by boat, creating a rustic and authentic atmosphere. It’s a lively and unforgettable spot to end the day.
Itacaré is one of Bahia’s most captivating destinations, where lush Atlantic Forest, preserved beaches, and a relaxed surf vibe blend harmoniously. From urban beaches with full infrastructure to hidden gems reached only by forest trails, Itacaré offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
This complete guide highlights the 11 best beaches in Itacaré, with detailed descriptions to help you explore this tropical paradise.