Praia do Porto da Barra, Salvador

Colonial forts from the 17th century dot the beach landscape at Praia do Porto da Barra. The calm, clear waters and white sandy beach attracts locals and tourists of all sorts, from rich to poor and eclectic to mundane. Besides large crowds, which you can escape with a short walk in either direction, you'll also see a small white colonial fort at one end, and a whitewashed church on the other.

Swimming is permitted in the warm, clean waters, but street merchants will try to sell you all types of goods, especially eyeing your goods if you leave them alone to take a dip in the water. One of the key things about this bay is that it faces west allowing a picturesque view of the sun setting behind the bay. Plan to see Praia do Porto da Barra and other attractions that appeal to you using our Salvador trip builder tool.