Farol da Barra: A Beacon of History and Beauty
Explore South America's oldest lighthouse, breathtaking ocean views, and rich maritime history at Salvador's iconic Farol da Barra.
Farol da Barra, or Barra Lighthouse, is an iconic landmark in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, marking the entrance to the Baía de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay). Housed within the Santo Antônio da Barra Fort, it's South America's oldest lighthouse and offers stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Brazil's maritime past.
A brief summary to Largo do Farol da Barra, 1 - Barra
- Largo do Farol da Barra, 1, Salvador, Barra, State of Bahia, BR
Local tips
- Visit the lighthouse and Nautical Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Sample local Bahian cuisine from the street vendors around Largo do Farol da Barra for an authentic taste of Salvador.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for exploring the fort, museum, and beach.
- Check local event listings for festivals, music performances, or cultural events happening in the Barra neighborhood.
- Stay until sunset to witness the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the ocean from behind the fort.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're staying in the Barra neighborhood, walking to Largo do Farol da Barra is a pleasant option. Simply head towards the coastline and follow the waterfront promenade. The lighthouse is visible from a distance, making it easy to orient yourself. The walk can take around 30-45 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Public Transport
From other parts of Salvador, such as Pelourinho, take a public bus towards 'Barra' or 'Farol da Barra'. Buses are frequent and fares are around R$5.20. The journey can take 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Look for the bus stop closest to the lighthouse. You can pay the bus fare with cash or the SalvadorCard.
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Taxi/Ride-Sharing Service
Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and 99 are readily available in Salvador. A short taxi ride from nearby areas like Ondina or Rio Vermelho to Farol da Barra typically costs around R$15-R$30, depending on traffic and time of day. Be sure the taxi meter is reset at the beginning of the ride. Uber/99 may be a safer option.
Discover more about Largo do Farol da Barra, 1 - Barra
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Largo do Farol da Barra, 1 - Barra
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Praça Farol da Barra
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Englishmen Cemetery (British Cemetery)
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Pé do Caboclo
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Monumento do Dois de Julho (Caboclo)
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Mirante da Paciência
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Mirante Ubaldo Marques Filho
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Casa de Oxumarê
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Jorge Amado e Zelia Gattai
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Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador
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Rio Vermelho BA museu Jorge amado
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a Casa do Rio Vermelho
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Cidade da Música da Bahia
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Memorial das Baianas
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Monumento a Cristóvão Colombo
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Unmissable attractions to see
Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra
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Farol da Barra
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Buraco da Sereia
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Naufrágio Maraldi
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Parque de Salvador
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Pierre Verger Space of Bahia Photography - Santa Maria Fort
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Porto da Barra Beach
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Cristo da Barra
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Morro do Cristo
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Marco de Fundação da Cidade do Salvador
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Carybé Arts Space - São Diogo Fort
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Trilha do Cristo
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Igreja Santo Antônio da Barra
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Cemitério Britânico - British Cemetery
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Morro Ipiranga
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Essential places to dine
Pasta Way Barra - Salvador
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Lucius Restaurante
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Pereira Restaurante
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Recôncavo Culinária
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Bistrô PortoSol
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Restaurante Portal do Mar
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Barravento Restaurant
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Tudo Azul Restaurante Suíço-Brasileiro
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Restaurante Van Gogh
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Oliva Gourmet
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Restaurante Outback Steakhouse
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Restaurante Veleiro
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Platô Salvador
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Restaurante Egeu
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cris Designer Store - Moda Praia e Casual
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Emequê Store Salvador-Ba
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Loja Natura Shopping Barra Salvador
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L'OCCITANE - L'Occitane en Provence - Shopping Barra
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Tania Bulhões - Shopping Barra Salvador
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STROKE
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SHOULDER - Barra Salvador Shopping
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IMAGINARIUM
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Shopping Barra
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Supermercado do bebê shopping Barra
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O Boticário
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Shopping Center Lapa
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Shopping Piedade
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Vixe Presentes
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Camarote Bar
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Nos Ares Lounge Bar
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Ovelha Negra Barra
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BARRA BEACH
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Tiki bar
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Guapo Boteco
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Zambi Bar
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Bar do Chico
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Baía Sunset Bar
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Bar Âncora do Marujo
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Bar Velho Espanha
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