Itaparica Island, Salvador Travel Guide

4.5 (2817)

Discover Itaparica Island: Bahia's best-kept secret, offering tranquil beaches, rich history, and an authentic Brazilian island experience.

Home
Travel Guides
Brazil
Salvador
Itaparica Island

Itaparica Island, the largest island in Bahia's All Saints Bay, offers a serene escape with its lush landscapes, calm beaches, and historic charm. Just a short ferry ride from Salvador, it's a world away from the bustling city, offering a taste of authentic Brazilian island life.

A brief summary to Itaparica Island

State of Bahia, BR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Itaparica Island.

Explore beyond the main beaches; rent a bike or hire a local guide to discover hidden coves and secluded spots.
Savor the local cuisine; Itaparica is known for its fresh seafood, prepared in traditional Bahian style.
Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful island experience.
Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases; while some locals speak English, knowing some Portuguese will enhance your interactions.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Buraco da Sereia

Marco de Fundação da Cidade do Salvador

Joventino Silva City Park

City Museum

Balé Folclórico da Bahia

Explore Itaparica Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Itaparica Island, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Itaparica Island

Buy tickets

No tickets available

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

No tours available

Getting There

Ferry

The most common way to reach Itaparica Island from Salvador is by ferry. Ferries depart from the São Joaquim Maritime Terminal in Salvador and arrive at Bom Despacho on Itaparica Island. The ferry journey takes approximately 40 minutes. From Salvador, take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the São Joaquim Maritime Terminal. A taxi ride from the city center typically costs R$20-R$30. The ferry fare is approximately R$6.70 per person on weekends and holidays and R$5.10 during the week. Once you arrive at Bom Despacho, you can take a taxi, van, or bus to your final destination on the island. Taxi fares vary depending on the distance, while vans offer a more affordable option for around R$7 to Barra Grande.

Discover more about Itaparica Island

Itaparica Island, a verdant jewel in Bahia's All Saints Bay, presents a tranquil retreat brimming with natural beauty and historical significance. Located a mere 13 kilometers from Salvador, the island boasts over 40 kilometers of beaches fringed by coconut groves and calm, clear waters. These waters are protected by coral reefs, making them ideal for swimming and water sports.Beyond its beaches, Itaparica offers a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past. The island played a vital role in Bahia's struggle for independence, and remnants of this history can be found in its architecture and cultural traditions. The island is also known for its mineral springs, which led to its designation as a hydromineral resort in 1937.Today, Itaparica is a beloved destination for both tourists and locals seeking respite from the city. The northern part of the island, particularly the old town of Itaparica, is the most developed and offers beautiful sunset views. As you venture south, you'll discover a more authentic and less commercialized atmosphere, with fishing villages and untouched landscapes.