Worried you'll have to choose between a family vacation and a real surf trip? I've learned that Praia do Forte is one of those rare spots where you can get quality waves while keeping everyone happy.
Why Praia do Forte?
This spot matters because it's home to one of Bahia's most famous waves, Papa Gente. With at least 4 other reef and beach breaks nearby, it offers variety in a beautiful, well-structured resort town. It’s the perfect blend of raw surf potential and comfort.
→ The coast here is a magnet for east and southeast swells, especially from May to August.
↳ This swell direction lights up the shallow reef passes, creating powerful and hollow rights.
Getting There & Getting Around
Your trip starts with a flight into Salvador, the capital of Bahia. Praia do Forte is an easy and scenic drive up the coast.
- Fly into Salvador International Airport (SSA), which is about 35 miles (56 kilometers) south of the town.
- → A pre-booked taxi or transfer to Praia do Forte takes around 50 minutes and will cost about $40 USD / 220 BRL.
- ↳ Renting a car at the airport gives you the freedom to explore the entire Coconut Coast (Costa dos Coqueiros).
The main village of Praia do Forte is very walkable, with most restaurants and shops on a pedestrian-only street. You'll need a car or taxi to reach surf breaks just outside of town.
When to Surf
The peak surf season runs through the Southern Hemisphere's winter, from May to August. This is when powerful groundswells produce waves in the 4-8 foot range. The water is always warm, averaging 79°F (26°C). The best waves are found on a mid to high tide, as the lower tide can make the reefs dangerously shallow.
Surf Breaks
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Papa Gente: The crown jewel. This is a powerful and fast right-hander that breaks over a shallow reef, located near the Tivoli Ecoresort.
Wave: Fast, hollow, and shallow. A serious wave for skilled surfers.
Level: Advanced. -
Praia do Lord: A fun wave with both right and left peaks, located right in front of the main village. It's more forgiving than Papa Gente.
Wave: A mix of sand and reef, moderately fast.
Level: Intermediate. -
Imbassaí: A 15-minute drive north. This spot is a rivermouth beach break that offers fun, shifting peaks and is often less crowded.
Wave: Punchy and fun beach break peaks.
Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
Where to Stay (Hotels)
→ All these options place you within a short walk or drive of the main breaks and town center.
Budget ($)
Pousada Casa de Praia ($70 USD / 385 BRL per night)
This charming guesthouse is clean, comfortable, and includes a great homemade breakfast. It offers excellent value just a few steps from the main village.
Mid-Range ($$)
Iberostar Bahia ($180 USD / 990 BRL per night)
A fantastic all-inclusive option with huge pools, multiple restaurants, and direct beach access, offering comfort and convenience.
Luxury ($$$)
Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte ($400 USD / 2200 BRL per night)
The premier luxury resort in the region, offering exclusive access near the Papa Gente break, stunning ocean views, a world-class spa, and exceptional service.
Food & Drink
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Local Beer: Cerveja Brahma (Chopp/Draft)
→ A light, crisp draft beer that is a Brazilian staple. Enjoy a frosty mug at Bar do Souza for about $3 USD / 16.5 BRL. -
Local Lunch: Moqueca de Camarão
→ A signature Bahian dish, this is a rich and savory shrimp stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil. A generous portion to share is about $25 USD / 138 BRL at Sabor da Vila.