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This Idyllic Surf Town Is One of the Most Underrated Beach Escapes in Brazil

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 11:35 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Discovering Itacare: Brazil’s Hidden Beach Gem

Nestled just a short drive north of Salvador, the tranquil town of Itacare offers a slice of paradise that is as serene as it is sustainable. The Travel + Leisure feature on Itacare highlights the town’s unique blend of natural beauty, eco‑tourism, and local culture, making it a must‑visit destination for travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic experience along Brazil’s northeastern coastline.

A Beach that Stretches into the Horizon

At the heart of Itacare’s appeal is its eponymous beach, a crescent of white sand backed by a gently rolling dune system that frames the Atlantic’s turquoise waters. The beach is famously calm, thanks in part to a natural barrier of mangroves that protect the shoreline from the brunt of tropical swells. According to the article, the waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking—activities that reveal the region’s abundant marine life, from colorful reef fish to playful dolphins that occasionally surface near the shore.

Travel + Leisure notes that the best time to enjoy the beach’s pristine conditions is during the dry season, from May to September. During this period the skies are clear, temperatures hover between 25‑30°C (77‑86°F), and the water remains pleasantly warm. In contrast, the wet season brings occasional showers and stronger waves that are better suited to more experienced surfers.

Turtle Conservation: A Window into Nature

One of Itacare’s standout attractions is the Itacare Marine Turtle Conservation Center, which the Travel + Leisure piece dedicates a substantial portion to. The center, a partnership between local volunteers and international conservation groups, focuses on protecting sea turtles that nest along the town’s beaches. Visitors can witness hatchlings making their way to the sea—a heart‑warming experience that underscores the importance of habitat preservation.

The article stresses that the turtle nesting season runs from September to March, when the most significant number of hatchlings appear. Visitors can join guided tours that provide insight into the life cycle of the turtles, the threats they face, and the community’s efforts to mitigate those threats. The center also offers educational displays and a small gift shop where travelers can purchase locally produced goods and support conservation funding.

Culture and Community

Itacare’s charm extends beyond its natural attractions. The Travel + Leisure feature highlights the town’s vibrant local culture, which is rooted in Afro‑Brazilian traditions. The streets are lined with small shops selling handmade crafts, fresh tropical fruits, and local delicacies such as acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters) and moqueca (seafood stew). A stroll through the town’s central plaza reveals the rhythm of daily life, from bustling markets to impromptu music performances that echo the rhythms of samba and forró.

The article points out that residents are generally friendly and welcoming, often encouraging visitors to try local dishes and participate in community events. It also notes that the town’s modest size—fewer than 3,000 residents—contributes to its laid‑back atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the crowds.

Accommodation: From Boutique Hotels to Eco‑Lodges

Itacare offers a range of lodging options that cater to different tastes and budgets. The Travel + Leisure piece describes a few standout accommodations:

• Pousada Mar de Vento: A boutique guesthouse that blends modern design with traditional Bahian elements. It features a private beach access point, an on‑site restaurant serving fresh seafood, and a spa that offers massages using local oils.
• Eco‑Lodge Baía Azul: A more rustic option, this eco‑lodge prioritizes sustainability, using solar power and rainwater harvesting. Guests can stay in bamboo cabins surrounded by lush tropical foliage and enjoy guided nature walks.
• Casa das Areias: A family‑run homestay offering a more intimate experience, with home‑cooked meals and opportunities to learn about local fishing practices.

All the accommodations mentioned boast strong environmental credentials, aligning with the town’s overarching commitment to sustainable tourism.

Practical Tips for Travelers

The Travel + Leisure article provides practical advice for planning a trip to Itacare. Key recommendations include:

1. Transportation: The town is accessible via the A1 highway from Salvador. For those seeking a more scenic route, a boat ride from Porto Seguro offers a unique perspective of the coastline.
2. Safety: While Itacare is generally safe, travelers are advised to remain vigilant during peak nesting season, as the increased foot traffic can occasionally lead to stray dogs or petty theft.
3. Health: Visitors should be mindful of sun exposure; the area receives high UV indices, especially during the dry season. Replenishing water and using reef‑safe sunscreen are recommended.
4. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites or traditional communities.

Related Destinations and Further Reading

The Travel + Leisure feature also includes links to other nearby attractions and guides. A quick click on the link to Praia do Forte directs readers to a comprehensive guide on the nearby resort town known for its luxury hotels, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife. Similarly, a link to the broader Bahia travel guide offers insight into the state’s cultural festivals, culinary traditions, and natural parks.

For those intrigued by wildlife conservation, the article suggests checking out the Turtle Conservation Center page, which dives deeper into the research and rehabilitation programs taking place along the Brazilian coast.

By weaving together pristine beaches, wildlife conservation, local culture, and sustainable hospitality, Itacare emerges as a destination that rewards both the casual traveler and the eco‑conscious explorer. Whether you’re treading the quiet dunes, watching a turtle hatch, or savoring a bowl of moqueca at sunset, Itacare promises an experience that is as enriching as it is unforgettable.