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Ilha Bom Jesus dos Passos: A Tranquil Island Escape

Discover Ilha Bom Jesus dos Passos: A peaceful island escape in Salvador with tranquil beaches, rich history, and authentic Bahian culture.

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Escape the hustle of Salvador on Ilha Bom Jesus dos Passos, a small, religiously significant island in the Baía de Todos os Santos. Known locally as 'Bomja,' this peaceful retreat offers calm waters, sandy beaches, and a glimpse into traditional Bahian life, with the historic Igreja de Bom Jesus dos Passos as its centerpiece.

A brief summary to Ilha Bom Jesus dos Passos

Local tips

  • Enjoy the local cuisine; fresh seafood dishes like moqueca and acarajé are island specialties.
  • Visit during the annual festival of the island's patron saint in January for a vibrant cultural experience.
  • Explore the island's beaches, such as Praia da Pontinha and Praia do Nordeste, known for their calm, blue waters.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Ilha Bom Jesus dos Passos from Salvador, take a bus (approximately 2 hours) to the Terminal Marítimo de Madre de Deus. From there, boats depart for the island every 30 minutes. The boat trip costs around R$6, plus a R$1.60 embarkation fee, and takes less than 30 minutes.

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Discover more about Ilha Bom Jesus dos Passos

Ilha Bom Jesus dos Passos, affectionately called 'Bomja', is a serene island escape located in the Baía de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay), within the municipality of Salvador. This small island, nestled between Ilha de Madre de Deus and Ilha dos Frades, offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. Officially becoming a neighborhood of Salvador in 2017, the island is known for its strong religious traditions and varied customs. Originally inhabited by Tupinambá Indians and known as Pataíba Assú, the island's history is rich and dates back to colonial times. In 1624, the Dutch colonized the island, calling it Ilha dos Brancos. The island received its current name in 1776 when Dr. André de Carvalho built the Igreja de Bom Jesus dos Passos (Church of Good Jesus of the Steps). This church remains the island's most prominent landmark, showcasing neoclassical interiors and a Rococo facade. Today, Bom Jesus dos Passos is home to a small community of around 3,500 residents who maintain a peaceful, slow-paced lifestyle. The island's economy is based on family agriculture, fishing, and emerging tourism. Visitors can explore the island's quiet, cobblestone streets, relax on calm beaches such as Praia da Pontinha and Praia da Ponta do Padre, and immerse themselves in the local culture. The island is also known for its traditional cuisine, with fresh seafood readily available in local restaurants.

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