Camamu Bay is an ecological paradise located between Morro de São Paulo and Itacaré. It is the third largest bay in Brazil, behind Guanabara Bay in Rio de Janeiro and Todos os Santos Bay in Salvador.
What makes this region special is its pristine ecosystem, preserved despite the rapid growth of the areas to the north and south. The region has remained free of pollution and commercial development, allowing its inhabitants to continue living with a low environmental impact.
Until recently, the waters of the bay were the main source of food and means of transport for the locals. Their traditional canoes carved out of tree trunks are still in use, keeping a centuries-old practice alive.
To explore the biodiversity and ecological wonders of Camamu Bay, it’s best to hire a speedboat and explore its maze of rivers, canals and islands, especially in the southern part.
Camamu Bay is possibly the largest expanse of undeveloped mangrove forest in the world.
While shrimp farming has devastated mangroves in other parts of the planet, this region has remained intact due to its limited access.
Fortunately, Brazil has designated a large part of this area as an Environmental Preservation Area (APA), guaranteeing its protection from degradation.
The main embarkation point for exploring the bay is the town of Camamu, located on the banks of the Acaraí River, surrounded by vast mangrove swamps. Originally inhabited by the Macamamus Indians, its history dates back to 1560, when the Jesuits built the Chapel of Our Lady of the Assumption of Macamamu, the origin of the town’s name.
One of the oldest cities in Brazil, Camamu was once the largest producer of manioc flour in the country.
The city of Camamu was built on two levels, just like Salvador, its upper town houses colonial buildings, the Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção (18th century) and old mansions.
From the lookout point, there is a panoramic view of Camamu Bay and its mangroves. In the lower town, you can see the market, the harbour and the old Town Hall and Jail, dating from 1693.
Around Camamu Bay, there are important towns and villages, such as Barra Grande, known for its paradisiacal beaches; Maraú, famous for the natural pools of Taipu de Fora; Travessão, a strategic crossing point; and Igrapiúna, which preserves local traditions and natural beauty.
For those who want to enjoy nature, it’s worth taking boat trips to explore the unspoilt islands, preserved forests and small traditional villages. Another option is to head for the paradisiacal beaches, waterfalls and mangroves of Barra Grande.
Camamu Bay is home to a variety of islands, beaches and well-preserved forests. With constant winds and deep, calm waters, it is a perfect destination for sailing and offers several safe anchorage points.
See the map of the Dendê Coast
Videos about Camamu Bay
Baia de Camamu e Peninsula de Marau imagens de drone
Baía de Camamu na Bahia01:58
Baía de Camamu e Península de Maraú03:47
Ilha do Goió na Baía de Camamu
Ilha da Pedra Furada na Baía de Camamu04:56
Ilha da Pedra Furada, Ilha Grande e Cajaíba15:14
Baía de Camamu - Guia Turístico05:25
Campinho Peninsula de Marau05:05
Main Attractions Within Camamu Bay
Still little explored by mass tourism, the region preserves an unspoilt ecosystem, with lush mangroves, rivers, paradisiacal islands and a rich biodiversity.
- Camamu City – Camamu is the main city on the shores of the bay and an important embarkation point for those wishing to explore its islands and beaches. With a colonial historic centre, the city preserves buildings such as the 18th century Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção. In the past, Camamu was one of the largest producers of manioc flour in Brazil. From the upper part of the town, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the bay, surrounded by extensive mangroves. The town’s harbour is busy and is the main link to Barra Grande and other towns in the region.
- Vila de Barra Grande – The village retains a rustic charm, with sandy streets, cosy inns and a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The sunset at Ponta do Mutá is one of the most famous in Bahia, and there are restaurants and bars on the seafront. In addition, the village of Barra Grande is the starting point for boat trips around the islands of the bay and to the Tremembé Waterfall.
- Camamu Bay Island Tours – The best way to explore this natural wonder is by boat. You can hire a speedboat or a boat in the harbours of Camamu and Barra Grande. During the high season, schooners organise trips for groups. It’s best to start your trip in the morning to make the most of the day.
- Pedra Furada Island – Located 30 minutes from Barra Grande and 1 hour from Camamu, this island has a rock formation sculpted by erosion, giving rise to a ‘pierced’ stone. Its crystal-clear waters and tranquillity make it an excellent place to relax. There is only one restaurant on the island, serving typical local food.
- Campinho – A village just 3 kilometres from Barra Grande, famous for having hosted the writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry in the 1930s. Its deep waters were even considered for an industrial harbour, which was eventually transferred to Ilhéus. With reefs full of fish, it is one of the best places in the bay for snorkelling.
- Sapinho and Ilha do Goió – The village of Sapinho, surrounded by mangroves, is a must for those taking the schooner trip. Small bars and restaurants serve fried fish, crabs, lobsters and moquecas. Opposite, separated by a narrow arm of the sea, is Goió Island, with its deserted beaches and calm waters.
- Ilha Grande – With 4 km², it is the largest and most inhabited island in the bay, with around 1,500 residents. It has a small harbour, several inns and beaches with calm waters. At the northern tip, Prainha stands out, a truly paradisiacal setting. Curiously, there are no cars on the island and its streets are just walking trails.
- Tremembé Waterfall – One of the most impressive places in Camamu Bay. The only way to access it is by speedboat, which can take visitors directly under the waterfall. The waterfall flows into the sea and mixes fresh water from the Atlantic Forest with the warm, brackish water of the bay, creating a unique experience for swimming and playing.
With its constant winds and calm waters, Camamu Bay is perfect for those looking for a paradisiacal, unspoilt and adventurous destination. Whether exploring its islands and waterfalls, savouring the local cuisine or simply contemplating the breathtaking scenery, this jewel of the Bahian coast promises an unforgettable experience.
Guia Turístico da Baía de Camamu
