Mata Atlântica, mangroves, restingas, and a coastline with an immense coral reef – the largest in the Bay of All Saints, stretching about 20 km. This paradisiacal scenery can be found on Itaparica Island.
With an area of 246 km², the largest island in the Bay of All Saints is divided between two municipalities: Itaparica, with some colonial buildings, and Vera Cruz, where the best beaches in the region are located, usually with shallow, calm, and warm waters. In total, there are 40 km of beach. The city also has restaurants offering various types of dishes, such as seafood, pizza, and barbecue.
On Itaparica is the only seaside hydromineral water source in the Americas, the Fonte da Bica, famous for its medicinal properties and being the “water that makes old women young.” The Fortress of São Lourenço, built by the Dutch in 1647, is another recommended attraction for visitors.
Among the beaches are Manguinhos, with good conditions for diving, Ponta do Mocambo, sought after for naturism, and Cacha-Pregos, one of the most isolated on the island. The waters around the island are well-suited for water sports and are sought after by sailors from all over the world.
The Baiacu Ecological Park, in the village of the same name, houses the ruins of the Chapel of Our Lord of Vera Cruz and is excellent for hiking and observing the typical flora of the region, such as the sacred gameleiras of candomblé. The indigenous and African cultural heritages are preserved in the habits of its inhabitants, in artisanal fishing, and in popular festivals.
Itaparica has a huge, modern resort that offers comfortable facilities and numerous sports and leisure options. In addition to infrastructure for events and conventions, the location has a landing strip and offers charter flights for companies.
The award-winning Brazilian writer João Ubaldo Ribeiro, author of books such as Sargento Getúlio, from 1971, and Viva o Povo Brasileiro, from 1984, is a notable son of Itaparica.
For more information about tickets and packages to Itaparica, call BACC Travel and speak with one of the agents: (212) 730-1010