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Ever feel like you need a holiday just to recharge your energy? That’s exactly how I found myself in Imbassaí, on Bahia’s beautiful northern coast.

This spot is close to popular destinations like Praia do Forte and Porto do Sauípe, yet it still retains a charming “village” feel.

Curious to learn more about this unique meeting of river and ocean on the Bahian coast? Let’s dive in!

Note: The currency exchange rates used in this article are based on the rates from 11/14/2024, with 1 USD = 5,78 BRL and 1 EUR = 6,09 BRL. Please be aware that these rates are for reference only, and updated values should be checked closer to your travel dates.

Where is Imbassaí?

Imbassaí is located on Bahia’s northern coast, within the municipality of Mata de São João. It sits precisely between Praia do Forte and Porto do Sauípe.

How to get to Imbassaí

Leaving from Salvador, the easiest way to reach Imbassaí is by car via the BA-099 highway. But if, like me, you’re without a car, there are four options: intercity bus, vans, Uber, or taxi.

Taking a taxi is certainly the priciest choice, but it allows you to arrange for someone to pick you up and drop you off at home or your hotel in Salvador conveniently.

If you choose Uber, I recommend prearranging your return trip with a taxi or even the same Uber driver. You might be able to book a ride through the app from Salvador to Imbassaí, but the return trip isn’t always guaranteed.

For public transport, you can opt for buses or vans. Buses cost about R$30 (US$ 5,19 / € 4,92) and depart from the bus terminal, making several stops along the way.

The “Expresso Linha Branca” van departs from the front of the Iguatemi Business Center (near the pedestrian bridge by Shopping da Bahia, formerly Iguatemi) and costs around R$10 (US$ 1,73 / € 1,64).

Both options make stops along the route and drop you off on the main highway rather than entering the town itself.

From there, you’ll need to take a motorcycle taxi to reach the town center. Don’t worry, there’s a motorcycle taxi stand right where the bus stops.

It’s just a quick ride from there to the town center, and you can ask to be dropped off directly at your accommodation, agreeing on the fare in advance. It will cost around R$ 5 (US$ 0,87 / € 0,82) ou R$10 (US$ 1,73 / € 1,64).

A quick tip: if you’re planning on taking the bus or van and then switching to a motorcycle taxi, try to pack light.

One more tip: Make sure to get the motorcycle taxi driver’s phone number to arrange your return trip later—it makes the journey back much smoother.

Where to stay in Imbassaí

Though small, Imbassaí offers a variety of lodging options, including different types of inns, hostels, and even resorts.

Inns in Imbassaí

Our stay in Imbassaí was completely elevated by the inn we chose — and the impact was entirely positive. Imbassaí has the typical inns with breakfast, pools, and other amenities, but we came across a unique option: Pousada Capitù.

They have a different concept, featuring rustic bungalows immersed in nature while ensuring total comfort and fun.

Everything was perfect! The room is charming, with thoughtful details that provide a unique experience. The breakfast is fantastic, plentiful, and delicious.

All facilities are excellent: pool, spa, bar and restaurant, showers—everything. The staff is friendly and helpful, taking all necessary precautions during the pandemic.

In addition to mask-wearing, they also implemented safety measures such as a breakfast form and scheduled dining times to ensure safety.

The love pack (available as an add-on) was a lovely touch, enhancing our romantic experience. I also booked a massage, which left me feeling completely renewed. The therapist was fantastic, making our stay even more memorable.

In short, we left enchanted and eager to return. The rustic chalet experience didn’t detract at all; in fact, it was ideal, even during the heavy rain we experienced.

Another tip: book a midweek stay if you want to save a bit on accommodation.

What to do in Imbassaí?

Imbassaí is a peaceful village, and the main attraction is undoubtedly its beach. However, it’s worth mentioning that the Imbassaí River also flows into the area, creating waterfalls along its course and offering other exciting activities.

Your accommodation will likely partner with local companies offering kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and other river activities. Close to Imbassaí’s town center is the Dona Zilda Waterfall, located on private property.

If you’re up for a good walk, crossing the river will bring you to Diogo Beach in the Vila de Santo Antônio, which is also beautiful and has natural pools during low tide.

For a longer excursion, you can visit Praia do Forte, the Tamar Project, or even the Garcia D’Ávila Castle.

Beyond the Grand Palladium Imbassaí

Many people end up visiting Imbassaí through the Grand Palladium, an incredible resort. Of course, the resort’s facilities are wonderful, but I highly recommend that anyone staying there take the time to explore other attractions in the region and even visit the local restaurants!

It will be a great experience for you, as you’ll enjoy something completely different from just staying at the resort’s beach, and it will also benefit the local businesses.

My trip to Imbassaí

As I mentioned, I was looking for a break from my routine. The public holiday on April 21st, 2019, fell on a Wednesday, so I decided to extend it until Friday.

My partner and I left on the 21st early in the morning and took the 6 AM van at the metro station near Shopping da Bahia. It rained heavily on the way, and we arrived in Imbassaí around 11 AM, but it’s definitely faster on a sunny day.

We braved the rain on a moto-taxi, praying that our laptops and camera wouldn’t get wet. We arrived at the Pousada Capitù soaking wet.

But soon the sun came out, and we went to eat the wonderful red fish they serve at the restaurant by the beach. The holiday was a bit rainy, with random sun breaks and some humidity. But nothing ruined our fun.

We enjoyed the pool and the beach in front of the pousada, as well as getting to know more of the pousada, which is absolutely charming.

We had dinner at Cajueiro’s Bar, one of the best restaurants around. Excellent service, with orders made via a QR code menu. It’s very convenient, especially during the pandemic.

The place is very pleasant, with nice décor and several different spaces. It was a pity it was raining when we dined.

We ordered a seafood pasta and a salad with coconut, pineapple, and nuts. The salad was surprising and very refreshing. The creamy coconut dessert was also wonderful.

The next day, we woke up early to see the river’s source before the fantastic breakfast. After eating, we headed to Diogo.

The sun was intense, and we only had one water bottle, so we arrived pretty tired. We were saved by a vendor who accepted Pix for payment for coconut water, unlike the others who didn’t. (Pix is a payment method used here in Brazil. It’s like a fast and convenient bank transfer that can be made between any bank.)

We had lunch at a simple yet delicious restaurant, Restaurante da Vânia. The service was friendly and quick, and we ordered a moqueca of sururu for lunch. It was amazing! The seasoning was fantastic, and the pirão and farofa were delicious.

It started raining heavily, so we went back to the pousada and spent the afternoon watching movies and enjoying our little cabin.

Once the rain stopped, we went to dinner at Jerimum, which we had reserved beforehand. We ordered gnocchi with pesto sauce, and it was fantastic!

The salad with chicken, croutons, and stuffed tomatoes was also wonderful. A unique experience, and we left completely satisfied, with no room left for dessert.

The next day, we enjoyed the beach and pool a little more and got ready to head back. We called the moto-taxi, and it arrived quickly. We waited only a short time for the bus, and soon we were back in Salvador.

Three days (2 nights) was enough for us to get some rest, but we still have many attractions left to visit. That’s why I recommend staying around 5 days, especially if you plan to visit Praia do Forte.

The northern coast of Bahia is full of these small, beautiful towns! One day, we’ll return to explore them all.

I hope you enjoyed reading. Until next time and safe travels!