Spa and Beach Vacation Guru


Boipeba, Brazil

Boipeba is a coastal island in the Brazilian state of Bahia. It hasn't been discovered by the glamorous, so it's still quiet and uncluttered. Accessible only by boat from Valença, Graçiosa, or Salvador, it's the perfect place to get away from the crowds.

This laid-back paradise off the Bahian coast is difficult to get to but the lengthy journey by road and boat is rewarding because it passes through the seductive Bahian scenery. Boipeba has rare natural beauty and a vast variety of eco-systems.

Walk along deserted pristine beaches and through coconut groves or simply laze in your hammock, one of which hangs outside each of the individually designed rooms at the Pousada Santa Clara.

The Boipeba island is completely peaceful because there are no cars, most goods are transported by mule, and the only form of mechanised transport is a tractor. Feast on excellent fresh seafood in the restaurant.

beach vacation - Boipeba Island, Brazil

While there, you can hike in Atlantic rainforest and on empty beaches, kayak in the surf or on the Rio Uma, ride horseback in the hills, snorkel, or just lounge on the beach. The least expensive way to get there is to travel from Salvador da Bahia (Brazil) by ferry to Itapirica, a forty-five minute trip that costs (under one US dollar). The ferry landing on Itapirica is also the bus station. Take the bus to Valença (about US$2.50), a two hour trip. The boat from Valença to Boipeba leaves daily at 12:30 p.m. It costs about R$6(depending on exchange rate).

Our favourite spot is Moreré, a small village with good, small restaurants, a bar and a very nice beach. The open air restaurants along Primeira Praia in Velha Boipeba (where the boat dock is) are excellent and inexpensive since two people can get full on one entree.

Commonly seen are cashew trees, papayas, coconuts, figs, sea grapes and lots of flowers all over the island. You will definitely enjoy the laid back, undeveloped and natural beauty of this place.

beach vacation - Boipeba Island, Brazil

For accomodation, consider Pousada Santa Clara – owned by two brothers from New York, one a great cook, the other a great guide both great hosts, theirs is a warm inviting pousada, set just 100 meters from the beach, only seven rooms, personalized attention. It is an excellent inn adjacent to Primeira Praia. High season rate is R$100 per night for a double (US$28).