Boipeba Island
A car-free island south of Salvador: deserted beaches, coconut palms and the natural pools of Moreré.
Region
Bahia, Dendê Coast
Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights
Best time to go
September to March
Getting there
From Salvador, 4 to 5 hours by road and boat via Valença, or about 30 minutes by small plane
Bahia’s unspoiled island
Boipeba is the wilder neighbor of Morro de São Paulo, in the Cairu archipelago. No cars, little development: the island alternates between fishing villages, mangroves and some 12 miles of palm-fringed beaches.
The main village, Velha Boipeba, spreads out at the mouth of the river. Farther south, Moreré is famous for its natural pools, where you swim among the fish at low tide. People come here for the tranquility, the sea and the lobster grilled on the beach.
When to go
It is warm year-round on the Bahia coast, with water temperatures of around 77 to 82°F (25 to 28°C). From September to March, the weather is drier and sunnier. From April to July, showers are more frequent, usually brief, but some days stay gray.
- September to March: drier, sunnier season
- April to July: rainy season
- August: transition, often pleasant
Months
Legend
Things to do
The natural pools of Moreré
At low tide, the reefs form large pools of crystal-clear water where you swim among the fish. A true aquarium a few yards from the shore.
Boat trip around the island
A day at sea, hopping between natural pools, secluded beaches and stops at fishermen’s shacks.
Ponta dos Castelhanos
An almost deserted beach, known for diving around the wreck of a Spanish galleon.
Cueira and the southern beaches
A long beach lined with coconut palms, where you enjoy grilled lobster with your feet in the sand.
Velha Boipeba and the river
The village, its lanes and the walk along the river to the sandy point at sunset.
Where to stay
Velha Boipeba
For village life. Charming pousadas near the river, restaurants and the boat departures.
Moreré
For the beach and peace and quiet. A fishing hamlet facing the natural pools, more secluded.
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FAQ
How do I get to Boipeba?
From Salvador, the most common option is to combine road and boat via Valença, in 4 to 5 hours. You can also fly by small plane, in about thirty minutes, or come from Morro de São Paulo by 4×4 and boat. Boats do not run at night: we time the schedules around your flights.
Is there a fee to visit the island?
As in Morro de São Paulo, a conservation fee may be charged to visitors to the archipelago. We’ll let you know the amount in effect at the time of your trip.
Can I visit Boipeba as a day trip?
It is possible from Morro de São Paulo, but the island deserves at least three nights so you can enjoy the low tides and the calm once the day-trippers have left.
Tempted by this trip?
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