Things To Do
in Simões Filho

Simões Filho is a municipality in Bahia State within the Salvador metropolitan area, offering a blend of riverfront scenery and urban life. It sits close to the coast, giving visitors easy access to beaches and bay views. The town acts as a gateway to Bahian culture, markets, and tasty seafood, with convenient links to Salvador.

Visitors can savor local cuisine, explore markets, and use Simões Filho as a base for day trips to nearby coastal sights.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Igreja Matriz de Simões Filho, a beautiful historic church that showcases stunning colonial architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where you can savor fresh fruits and traditional Brazilian pastries. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, taking in the vibrant murals and local artisan shops.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Praça da Bíblia, a bustling square where you can relax and people-watch. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes such as acarajé or moqueca. Spend some time exploring the nearby market, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a renowned local eatery that offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious regional cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverside, where the ambiance is enhanced by the soft glow of the lights. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar for live music, experiencing the lively culture of Simões Filho.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Set off early for a day at the nearby Praia de Jauá, known for its stunning turquoise waters and golden sands. Start with a refreshing swim in the ocean, followed by a relaxing sunbathing session on the beach. Don’t forget to enjoy a local breakfast from a beachside vendor, featuring fresh coconut water and pastel.

afternoon
:

After a leisurely morning, try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing, available for rent along the beach. Enjoy a beachside lunch, sampling fresh seafood dishes that are a specialty in the region. Spend the afternoon exploring the coastline, perhaps taking a scenic walk or playing beach volleyball with locals.

evening
:

As the day winds down, watch the sunset over the ocean, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Head to a local beachfront restaurant for dinner, enjoying grilled fish and refreshing caipirinhas. Cap off your beach day with a bonfire on the sand, mingling with fellow travelers and locals alike.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant$20-40
🚎One-way public transport$0.60-1
🏠Rent for 1-bedroom city center$300-500
🛒Groceries for a week$40-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich Bahia culture and cuisine
  • Coastal scenery and warm hospitality
  • Good base for day trips to Salvador and beaches
  • Heat and humidity can be intense
  • Some areas may have limited English-speaking staff
  • Traffic can be heavy during peak hours
  • "Oi" - Hi
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Simões Filho

Visit one of these nice places.

Baía de Todos os Santos Lookout

Panoramic coastal views with boats and the distant Salvador skyline at sunset.

Mangrove Trails near Simões Filho

Soft light through mangroves at dawn or dusk, with reflections in tidal pools.

Culinary Guide

Food in Simões Filho

Bahian cuisine is rich in seafood, coconut milk, and palm oil (dendê). Expect bold flavors, plentiful street food, and fresh produce from local markets.

Simões Filho Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca Baiana

Seafood stew simmered in coconut milk, peppers, and dendê oil, typically served with rice.

Must-Try!

Acarajé

Fried bean fritters filled with vatapá and often shrimp; a classic Bahian street snack.

Vatapá

Creamy paste made with bread or cassava flour, peanuts, coconut milk, and dendê oil.

Bobó de Camarão

Coconut-milk-rich shrimp dish served over cassava purée.

Caruru

Okra-based stew flavored with dried shrimp and palm oil, commonly served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Simões Filho

Local market offering fresh produce, fish, spices, and Bahian snacks.

Street Stalls and Beach Kiosks

Casual spots for fried snacks, bolinhos, and refreshing drinks along the waterfront.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical climate with high humidity year-round. Expect hot days, refreshing sea breezes along the coast, and occasional rain showers, especially in the rainy season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and language

A polite greeting (bom dia/boa tarde) is appreciated; learning basic Portuguese phrases helps with interactions.

Religious and cultural respect

Respect religious sites; dress modestly in sacred spaces; avoid loud behavior in churches or processions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise standard travel precautions: stay aware in crowded areas, use reputable transport, avoid poorly lit places at night, and keep valuables secure. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen in the sun.

Tipping in Simões Filho

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is good.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas; cash in BRL is handy for markets; mobile payments are increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, humid days with strong sun; best for beach visits, early mornings or late afternoons; stay hydrated.

Winter

Milder warmth and comfortable evenings; ideal for outdoor city strolls and coastal views.

Rainy Season

Increased rainfall, especially in the afternoons; carry a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof bag; landscapes become lush.

Nightlife Guide

Simões Filho at Night

The nightlife around the Salvador metro area features bars, live music, and beachfront venues. Expect a mix of samba-reggae, forró, and local funk, with many options staying open late and offering outdoor seating.

Hiking in Simões Filho

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal and Mangrove Trails near Salvador

Several short trails through mangroves and coastal viewpoints within a short drive of Simões Filho.

Airports

How to reach Simões Filho by plane.

SSA – Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport

Main gateway for Salvador and Bahia; connected by bus, taxi, or rideshares to Simões Filho.

Getting Around

Walkability

Moderate walkability within Simões Filho; sidewalks can be uneven in parts; best for exploring the city center on foot, with taxis or ride-sharing for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Diverse urban population

A mix of Afro-Brazilian communities, commuters from surrounding towns, students, and visitors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

The most popular sport with local matches and beach games common along the coast.

Capoeira and beach volleyball

Cultural martial arts and beach sports widely practiced in coastal towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during peak hours in the metropolitan area; use reliable transport apps; plan extra travel time for weekend trips to beaches.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Simões Filho.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Bahian vegetarian options include moqueca de palmito, grilled vegetables, and beans with rice; ask for no dendê oil or shrimp stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in public and private facilities within the metropolitan area; emergency services are concentrated in Salvador; travel insurance is recommended.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide