Things to do in Costa do Descobrimento
Discover the best attractions and experiences Costa do Descobrimento has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the rich colonial legacy along the Discovery Coast, with preserved towns and historic squares.
Centro Histórico de Porto Seguro
The old town where Cabral landed in 1500, with cobbled lanes and colorful houses brimming with history.
Quadrado de Trancoso
Picturesque square surrounded by whitewashed cottages and a centuries-old chapel, famed for sunsets.
Museums
Learn about the region's discovery era and local culture through small, coastal museums.
Memorial do Descobrimento (Porto Seguro)
Exhibitions recount Brazil's discovery period and early colonial history.
Museu de Porto Seguro
Local history displays and artifacts from the region's past.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites that offer peaceful perspectives and architecture from Bahia's spiritual heritage.
Igreja de Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda (Arraial d'Ajuda)
A charming church with a hilltop setting and classic Bahian religious scenery.
Capela de Caraíva
Tiny chapel in the village of Caraíva, adding a rustic spiritual note to the coast.
National & Theme Parks
Protected areas and theme adventures showcase Bahia's natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Monte Pascoal National Park
Home to the historic Monte Pascoal peak and rich Atlantic forest, ideal for hikes and lookout views.
Arraial Eco Park
A family-friendly theme water park with rides and wildlife encounters near Arraial d'Ajuda.
Neighborhoods
Characterful hubs to base your explorations from, each with its own vibe.
Porto Seguro Centro Histórico
Historic district with cobbled streets, shops, and riverside views.
Arraial d'Ajuda
Charming village known for its beaches, friendly atmosphere and lively streets.
Trancoso (Quadrado and beaches)
Boutique village famed for the Quadrado square and stunning coastlines.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the coast without breaking the bank—plenty of beaches and scenic walks await.
Passeio pela Passarela do Descobrimento (Porto Seguro)
A riverside promenade lined with shops and bars, perfect for a sunset stroll.
Praia da Pitinga
Cliffside beach with turquoise water and easy beach access.
Quadrado de Trancoso ao pôr do sol
Stroll the historic square during golden hour for iconic photos.
Gastronomy
Bahian flavors shine with seafood, coconut milk and vibrant street snacks.
Moqueca Baiana
A fragrant fish stew cooked with coconut milk, peppers and dendê oil.
Acarajé
Fried bean ball filled with vatapá and spicy peppers—a Bahian staple.
Bobó de Camarão
Creamy shrimp stew with cassava oil and coconut milk.
Caruru
Okra-based dish often served with shrimp and rice.
Nightlife
Sunset to late-night vibes with beachfront bars and lively music.
Passarela do Descobrimento (Porto Seguro)
Lively riverside strip with bars, live music and night markets.
Rua do Mucugê (Arraial d'Ajuda) bars
Popular street with waterfront restaurants and music venues.
Entertainment
Family-friendly parks and coastal experiences for memorable days.
Arraial Eco Park
Theme park with rides and marine life shows near Arraial d'Ajuda.
Recife de Fora snorkeling trips
Boat-based snorkeling to see sea turtles and tropical fish (activities available from local operators).
Sports
Water sports and outdoor adventures along Bahia's coast.
Snorkeling no Recife de Fora
Discover vibrant coral gardens and sea life just offshore.
Kitesurf em praias locais
Wind-swept beaches are perfect for a quick session.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the obvious to rural coastlines and tiny villages.
Caraíva
A remote river-delta village with rustic charm and pristine beaches.
Cumuruxatiba
A quiet, long beach town with undeveloped coastline and local fishing culture.