Things To Do
in Nazaré
Nazaré, Brazil is a small coastal town in Bahia along the Atlantic Ocean, known for its fishing heritage and laid back vibe. The streets are lined with colorful houses, markets, and friendly locals who celebrate Afro Bahian culture through music and food. Visitors come for fresh seafood, long beaches, and scenic estuaries that invite slow exploration.
The town is accessible by road from Salvador and offers a relaxed base for exploring the Recôncavo coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by basking in the sun at Praia de Nazaré, one of the most famous beaches in Brazil known for its stunning waves. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the ocean and explore the vibrant beachside market for local crafts and goods. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, absorbing the panoramic views of the Atlantic and the surrounding cliffs.
Head to Praia do Norte to witness the world-renowned big wave surfers in action, as the beach is known for its impressive swells. Grab a bite at one of the beach kiosks, sampling fresh seafood and local delicacies while watching the surfers ride the monstrous waves. After lunch, consider taking a boat tour to see the coastline from the water and get a different perspective of this beautiful area.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the Atlantic. Dine at a local restaurant where you can savor traditional Brazilian dishes accompanied by live music. Conclude your day by taking a peaceful walk along the beach, feeling the gentle ocean breeze and listening to the sound of the waves.
Begin your day with a visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, a site of deep religious significance for the people of Brazil. Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the history of the miraculous statue housed within, which attracts pilgrims from all over the world. Spend some time in quiet reflection or participate in the morning mass if you're feeling so inclined.
After your visit, explore the charming streets surrounding the sanctuary, browsing local shops and enjoying the town’s unique atmosphere. Stop for lunch at a café, trying a regional specialty like 'caldeirada' – a traditional fish stew. Post-lunch, take a short hike up to the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo for stunning views of Nazaré and its surroundings.
Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring a meal made from the freshest catch of the day. Discover local nightlife or catch a cultural performance, possibly involving traditional dances or music. Wrap up the evening by wandering through the town, where you can appreciate its vibrant ambiance as locals enjoy their evening routines.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $1-3 |
| 🚖Taxi 1 km | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-120 |
| 🛍️Basic groceries (bread, eggs, fruit) | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and rich Bahian culture
- Excellent seafood and affordable coastal cuisine
- Relaxed pace, beautiful beaches, and scenic estuaries
- Compact town center that is easy to explore on foot
- Limited English in some establishments
- Public transport options can be sparse outside the town center
- Nightlife is low-key compared to big cities
- Some areas lack well-developed tourist infrastructure
- "Oi, tudo bem?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Desculpe, não falo Português muito bem" - Sorry, I don't speak Portuguese very well
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Nazaré
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy beach with colorful fishing boats and dramatic sunsets over the Atlantic.
Iconic harbor view with the lighthouse and working boats, perfect for golden hour photography.
Front row seats to pastel facades, markets, and life along the seafront.
Boardwalks along the river estuary provide reflections, birds, and mangrove scenery.
Food in Nazaré
Nazaré Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich fish stew with coconut milk, dendê oil, peppers, and cilantro; best tasted fresh at a seaside restaurant.
Must-Try!
Fried black eyed pea fritters stuffed with vatapá and shrimp; commonly sold by street vendors or in local markets.
Creamy seafood and bread or tapioca based dish with dendê; often served as a side in Bahian meals.
Okra, dried shrimp, and palm oil stew often served with rice and fish.
Baked crab shell with creamy filling and cheese; a popular seaside specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A waterfront market offering fresh fish, spices, tropical fruits, and coconut water.
Casual stalls along the seafront serving acarajé, salgados, and grilled seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello and a handshake; in informal settings a light kiss on the cheek is common among friends. Remember to use basic Portuguese greetings.
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets or homes.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or towns; beachwear is appropriate at the beach but not in all town centers.
Be punctual for tours and events and queue patiently; loud behavior is discouraged in family or religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Nazaré
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and bars (5-10% if service is good). Tipping taxi drivers is not as common. For guided tours, a small tip is appreciated.
Cash in BRL and credit cards are widely accepted. PIX and mobile payments are increasingly common; some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February is hot and humid with peak beach activity. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Afternoon showers are possible; mornings are often sunny and ideal for outdoor plans.
March to May offers more comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. Great for outdoor walks, cultural events, and fewer crowds.
June to August brings milder days and cooler nights with ocean can be rougher. Sea can be rougher, so check tides if you plan to swim.
September to November brings pleasant weather and rising water temperatures. Ideal for hiking, boat trips, and seaside exploration.
Nazaré at Night
Hiking in Nazaré
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trail along the shoreline offering ocean views and sunset photography opportunities.
Easy forested trail with birds and river crossings near the estuary.
Airports
How to reach Nazaré by plane.
Main gateway to the region, about 100-130 km from Nazaré; connects to major Brazilian cities and some international destinations.
Secondary gateway in the south of Bahia, useful for regional connections and a longer transfer to Nazaré.
Alternative northern Bahia option with regional flights, farther but can be used for multi-city itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding communities involved in daily fishing and maritime trades.
Cultural roots reflected in music, cuisine, and religious traditions.
Mostly Brazilians from other states and international visitors attracted by the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Brazil with local pickup games and club leagues in and around Nazaré.
Common on the beaches with sand and water assist; informal matches among locals and visitors.
Coastal waves attract surfers on certain days, especially on larger swells.
Traditional martial art and dance often performed in public spaces and cultural centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nazaré.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Nazaré, vegetarian options exist in Bahian restaurants; request dishes prepared without dendê oil or with vegetables, beans, and rice; look for moqueca de palmito or acarajé without shrimp.