Natural beauty and sophistication in perfect balance

One of the main tourism zones in the state, the Discovery Coast is the second most important destination in Bahia in terms of number of visitors and first in accommodations, with 35,000 beds. The region’s historic, architectural and natural heritage is in perfect balance with the modern leisure, service and hotel infrastructure.

Porto Seguro is the gateway for those who wish to explore the early years of Brazil’s colonial past, for those who enjoy ecotourism and radical sports or who simply want to relax and think about nothing except the beautiful seascapes, blue skies and the sun that shines throughout the year.

The region stretches for 90 kilometers of beaches protected by coral reefs with coves and rivers, against a backdrop of coconut groves and exuberant coastal rainforest vegetation.

The city never sleeps and there’s something happening almost around the clock. During the day the beach and day trips on the sea or into the forest are the best options. At night, the range of activities is equally diverse starting with the town’s main strip known as the Passarela do Álcool, where dozens of quaint stands are set up selling a vast array of local cocktails called roscas, which are made of tropical fruits and vodka.

South of Porto Seguro lie two popular destinations, Arraial d´Ajuda and Trancoso.  The former is the most cosmopolitan town in the region. With its unpaved, narrow streets, small, rustic and cozy inns, charming bars and restaurants and an atypical lifestyle, Arraial d´Ajuda is internationally known for its elegant simplicity.

The village of Trancoso is more laid back, and still preserves a rather rustic ambience.  Ideal for those who want to rest and relax in contact with nature, Trancoso sits atop a knoll with a stunning panoramic view of beaches, cliffs, river deltas, tropical rainforest vegetation and coconut groves.

Santa Cruz Cabrália, which lies north of Porto Seguro, is known as the site where the first mass was celebrated in Brazil.  The town has a well-developed infrastructure and is very popular among tourists. Another nearby landmark of the Discovery Coast is Coroa Vermelha, home to the famed Discovery Marker.

The Discovery Coast is for those travelers who are looking for breathtaking tropical landscapes and crystal clear waters, all with a cozy, yet comfortable ambience. It’s possible to get there by car, bus, ship or plane, the latter via Porto Seguro International Airport, the third largest in the Brazilian Northeast in terms of passenger volume.