Things to Do in Praia do Forte
- Get up early and watch the sunrise – one of the most beautiful in Brazil.
- Visit the local base of Projeto Tamar, a non-governmental organization dedicated to protecting sea turtles. The base is open year-round. From July to September, biologists manage the nests; during the summer, the newly hatched turtles race to the sea.
- At Projeto Tamar, visit the Garcia D’Ávila Lighthouse, built in 1971.
- Watch humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae; in Portuguese, they’re called baleias jubarte) from July to October. Instituto Baleia Jubarte offers boat rides and hosts a voluntourism program (July-November).
- The fort which gave the beach its name is no longer standing. However, you can tour the 16th-century Garcia D’Ávila Castle, located on a hilltop just two kilometers from the village. Built in 1551, this castle, also known as Casa da Torre, is the only construction with medieval characteristics in the Americas.
- Show off your game on the P. B. Dye-designed green of Iberostar Praia do Forte Golf Club.
- Walk, ride a bike, horse, or quadricycle at Reserva de Sapiranga, an Atlantic rainforest preservation area with seven signaled trails. You can also take a dip in the Pojuca River.
- Go on an adventure with Portomar – they offer parasailing, buggy tours, and canoe rides on the Timeantube Lagoon, alongside many more adventurous outings.
- Go snorkeling (rent masks at Projeto Tamar).
Hotels and Accommodations
Praia do Forte, in Bahia, is renowned for its all-inclusive resorts. Nevertheless, the beach retains its charming village atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle, which is reflected in local pousadas and hostels. Here are the best accommodations in Praia do Forte, catering to a wide range of budgets.
Top Resorts
- Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte
Integration with nature and sustainable practices, with suites offering expansive views of coconut groves, gardens, and the sea. - Iberostar Praia do Forte All Inclusive
This resort, opened in 2008, features 536 guest rooms, five restaurants, and five bars, ideal for couples and families alike. - Iberostar Bahia
Enjoy five-star comfort with 630 guest suites, four restaurants, and five snack bars or restaurants by one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches.
Mid-Range Hotels and Pousadas
- Pousada Casa do Forte
This pousada is just a short walk from the village center, featuring 31 guest rooms with Balinese touches and amenities including a bar and restaurant. - Pousada Refúgio da Vila
A cozy pousada with 30 rustic-style guest rooms and a restaurant serving Bahian delicacies. - Via dos Corais Hotel
Located near the village center, offering 50 rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. - Hotel Eco Atlântico
Located near the ocean, this hotel features 32 rooms and a seafood restaurant specializing in codfish. - Pousada Porto Zarpa
Offering sustainable practices, this pousada opened in 2001 with 32 guest rooms. - Pousada Sobrado da Vila
A bright pousada in the village center with 27 apartments and a pool. - Pousada Farol das Tartarugas
This toes-in-the-sand pousada has 11 apartments and four bungalows with a colorful ambiance and sea views.
Budget Accommodations
- Pousada Balanço do Mar
- Pousada Casa de Praia
- Pousada Mares do Forte
- Pousada Ogum Marinho
- Pousada Rosa dos Ventos
The Hostel at Praia do Forte
- Praia do Forte Hostel
Vacation Rentals in Praia do Forte
- HomeAway
Dining Options in Praia do Forte
There are several pleasant places to dine in the village. Praia do Forte features a variety of eateries, including some excellent creperies such as Creperia do Totonho (Alameda da Lua, s/n, phone: 55-71-3676-1327). Other notable spots include:
- Café do Forte
A bistro serving exquisite à la carte dishes, such as fillet au poivre vert, along with a fixed-price lunch option. - Sabor de Ogum at Pousada Ogum Marinho
Known for its varied Bahian cuisine and a robust feijoada buffet available on weekends and holidays. - Vila Gourmet at Pousada Sobrado da Vila
Serves contemporary Bahian and Northeastern dishes, utilizing organic vegetables. - Tango Café
A local favorite offering sandwiches, snacks, and desserts. - Taverna Paradiso
One of Bahia’s most beloved Italian restaurants, featuring dishes rooted in Tuscan and Bolognese culinary traditions.
How to Get to Praia do Forte from Salvador
Traveling to Praia do Forte from Salvador is straightforward via bus. Linha Verde provides a few daily services from the Salvador Bus Terminal, taking about one hour and 40 minutes.
Alternatively, there are buses departing several times daily from a stop near the ferry boat to Itaparica. The Praia do Forte Hostel has further schedule details available.
You may also opt for a taxi or check if your accommodation provides a transfer service. Expect to pay around $60 or more for this option.
