Exploring the Natural Beauty of Ilha de Maré in Bahia

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Ilha de Maré is one of the islands that make up the Baía de Todos os Santos archipelago in Bahia and is located about 30 minutes by boat from Salvador.

With an area of approximately 14 km², the island is a true natural and cultural paradise, offering a still unspoilt and traditional environment, with little urban interference.

Ilha da Maré na Bahia
Ilha de Maré na Bahia

It is part of the municipality of Salvador, but its proximity to the municipalities of Candeias and Madre de Deus makes it easy to access from these locations.

See the map of Todos os Santos Bay

Videos about Ilha de Maré in Bahia

Natural Features

Ilha de Maré is known for its rich vegetation, which includes the Atlantic Forest, banana plantations, mango trees, coconut palms, and the cana-brava, used in the production of local handicrafts such as basketry.

Its beaches are of great natural beauty, especially the beaches of Santana, Praia Grande, Itamoabo and Praia das Neves, which are characterised by clear, calm waters, great for swimming and schooner trips. In some of them, the presence of mangroves and rocks creates picturesque landscapes.

The island’s mangroves play an important role in the local ecosystem, providing shelter and food for various species of birds, fish and crustaceans.

The marine environment is an attraction for those who enjoy fishing, and it is common to find sea bass, mullet and carapeba.

Communities and culture

Ilha de Maré has 12 villages, the main ones being Santana, Praia Grande and Itamoabo, where traditions and a simple way of life predominate. The local culture is strongly marked by handicrafts, especially bobbin lace, a tradition maintained by generations of lace makers.

Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Santana, Ilha de Maré BA
Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Santana, Ilha de Maré BA

Bamboo handicrafts and the production of the famous banana jam in straw are other cultural characteristics of the island.

The island also preserves a rich religious heritage with its historic churches, such as the 19th century Church of Nossa Senhora de Santana and the 16th century Church of Nossa Senhora das Neves, which is one of the oldest religious landmarks in the region.

Mapa da Ilha de Maré
Mapa da Ilha de Maré

Tourist attractions on Ilha de Maré

Despite its modest infrastructure, Ilha de Maré is very popular with tourists looking for a quiet refuge, direct contact with nature and a traditional culture.

Schooner trips around the Bay of All Saints often stop off at the island, and one of the most picturesque attractions is the so-called ‘jeguetour’, where visitors can explore the rural areas and villages on donkeys, as there are no motor vehicles on the island.

In addition to the beautiful beaches, visitors can also marvel at the tranquillity of the villages, the panoramic views of the bay, and try the local cuisine, which includes dishes made with fresh seafood, such as the traditional caruru, moqueca, and fish broths.

  1. Povoado de Praia Grande – To this day, you can find descendants of slaves who communicate through ancient African dialects, preserved over the centuries. This is where the artisans who use straw and cane-brava to make baskets and other handicrafts are found, known for their rich creativity and beauty. It is also here that the famous straw banana jam is sold, a typical delicacy of Ilha de Maré.
  2. Praia de Santana – One of the most popular beaches, with calm waters, ideal for those seeking tranquillity. It is surrounded by lacemakers and artisans, offering a cultural experience as well as contact with nature.
  3. Itamoabo Beach – Known for its calm waters and rustic setting. It’s common to find locals offering coconut water to visitors and making jeeps available for trips around the island.
  4. Praia Grande – With a good stretch of sand and calm waters, it is excellent for swimming and relaxing. There are also stalls serving local dishes.
  5. Praia das Neves – Approximately 300 metres long, its waters are clear and the sea is calm, ideal for families and those looking for a more secluded atmosphere.

These beaches are surrounded by rich Atlantic Forest vegetation and mangroves, offering stunning scenery and snorkelling opportunities in a preserved environment.

Traditions and way of life

The inhabitants of Ilha de Maré still maintain a simple lifestyle, with strong links to artisanal fishing and handicrafts, especially the bobbin lace makers, who produce fine lace pieces, such as towels and curtains, sold both locally and to visitors.

Net fishing in colourful canoes is also a common practice among the island’s men and an important source of livelihood.

A Place ‘Forgotten by Time’

Due to its natural preservation and peaceful lifestyle, Ilha de Maré is often described as a place ‘forgotten by time’, where old traditions are still very much present and the pace of life is slower, providing an authentic experience for those who visit.

How to get to Ilha de Maré

The main way to get to the island is by boat from various points in Salvador and neighbouring towns such as Candeias and Madre de Deus.

The journey to the island takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the point of departure, and offers beautiful views of Baía de Todos os Santos along the way.

Bahia.ws is the largest tourist guide to Bahia and Salvador.