
Barra do Cahy
Discover Barra do Cahy, Brazil's historic 'first beach,' where a serene river meets the ocean amidst stunning cliffs and lush nature.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, ideal for beach

Barra do Cahy
Best Time
Sunny days, ideal for beach

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Barra do Cahy, Brazil's historic 'first beach,' where a serene river meets the ocean amidst stunning cliffs and lush nature.
"A truly magical place, one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen!"

🚗 4x4 Recommended
The road to Barra do Cahy can be rough; a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for easier access.
🛶 Kayak the Mangroves
Explore the calm, dark waters of the mangrove by kayak for a unique nature experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The First Beach of Brazil
Barra do Cahy
Step onto the sands where Portuguese explorers first landed in 1500. A truly historic and beautiful spot.

River Meets Sea
Barra do Cahy
Experience the unique confluence of a calm river and the ocean, perfect for swimming and kayaking.

Pristine Sands and Cliffs
Barra do Cahy
Enjoy the clean, tranquil beach framed by stunning cliffs and lush coconut groves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road to Paradise: Prepare for the Journey
Embrace the Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 Recommended
The road to Barra do Cahy can be rough; a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for easier access.
🛶 Kayak the Mangroves
Explore the calm, dark waters of the mangrove by kayak for a unique nature experience.
💰 Pack Cash
While some places accept cards, it's wise to carry cash for smaller vendors and potential ferry crossings.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The Bahian sun is strong! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your beach days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Recommended
The road to Barra do Cahy can be rough; a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for easier access.
🛶 Kayak the Mangroves
Explore the calm, dark waters of the mangrove by kayak for a unique nature experience.
💰 Pack Cash
While some places accept cards, it's wise to carry cash for smaller vendors and potential ferry crossings.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The Bahian sun is strong! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your beach days.
🍽️ Enjoy Local Flavors
Savor delicious seafood at the beachside restaurants; the food is highly praised.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Barra do Cahy is overwhelmingly loved for its stunning natural beauty, historical significance as the 'first beach of Brazil,' and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors rave about the clean sands, the unique river-sea confluence perfect for swimming and kayaking, and the delicious local food. The challenging road access is often cited as a worthwhile 'perrengue' (struggle) for the reward of such an unspoiled paradise.
"Loved the place, clean and wonderful sand. Enjoyed the runs down and up the fresh sweet water of the river arriving to the sea"
MiR Gil
"Eu sou apaixonada pela Barra do Cahy. Pra quem quer ficar sossegado no rio é perfeito e pra quem gosta de ficar em quiosque os dois que tem na praia são deliciosos. Não pra ir em Corumbau ou Cumuruxatiba sem vir conhecer."
MARCELLY TADAKUMA
"Lugar MARAVILHOSO, os perrengues da estrada valem a pena haha. Praia limpa, tranquila, ótima pra ir com criança. Comida maravilhosa e os valores até achei acessíveis, tendo em vista a dificuldade que é pra chegar ao local. Vale super a pena… com certeza cumuru ganhou meu coração e barra do cahy, uma das praias mais lindas que já vi, até arrisco a dizer a mais linda 😍"
Hellen Andrade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barra do Cahy is located in the municipality of Prado, Bahia, between Cumuruxatiba and Corumbau. Access often involves driving on unpaved roads, and a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended due to the terrain. Some visitors mention the journey is part of the adventure and worth the effort.
Yes, Barra do Cahy is close to Corumbau. If the tide is high, you might need to cross by boat from Corumbau, which costs around R$20 per person. There is also parking available.
The roads leading to Barra do Cahy can be unpaved and challenging, especially after rain. Many travelers advise that a 4x4 is the best option for a smoother journey.
Public transport options directly to Barra do Cahy are limited due to its remote location. It's generally recommended to travel by car, or arrange private transfers from nearby towns like Prado or Cumuruxatiba.
Barra do Cahy is approximately 15-16 km from the center of Cumuruxatiba, making it a popular day trip or a short drive for those staying in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Barra do Cahy beach is a public natural attraction, so there is no entrance fee to access the beach itself. You only pay for services like food, drinks, or activities.
As a natural beach, Barra do Cahy is accessible at all hours. However, the beachside restaurants and kiosks typically operate during daylight hours, usually from morning until late afternoon.
For general beach access, no booking is required. If you plan to stay at accommodations nearby or dine at specific restaurants, especially during peak season, advance booking is advisable.
There are no specific entry restrictions for Barra do Cahy. It's a natural environment, so visitors are encouraged to respect the surroundings and practice responsible tourism.
It's recommended to carry cash as some establishments, especially smaller kiosks or during less busy times, may not accept credit cards. ATMs are not readily available in Barra do Cahy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming in the calm river and sea, relax on the clean sands, go for runs along the shore, and explore the mangroves by kayak. It's also a great spot for simply unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty.
Absolutely! Barra do Cahy is described as a great beach for children due to its calm waters, clean sand, and the gentle river. Parents appreciate the tranquil environment for their kids.
Yes, there are a couple of beachside restaurants and kiosks that offer delicious food and drinks. They are known for their seafood and welcoming atmosphere.
The water is generally calm and clear. You'll find both the sea and a river meeting, offering different swimming experiences. The river water is described as very warm and dark, perfect for kayaking.
While not explicitly mentioned as a designated campsite, some travelers have mentioned camping experiences, particularly during organized events or treks. It's best to inquire locally or with tour operators about camping possibilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique landscape where the river meets the sea, the dramatic cliffs, and the lush coconut groves. The historic significance of being the 'first beach' also offers unique photographic opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography, highlighting the natural beauty of the beach and coastline. Midday provides clear, bright light for capturing the vibrant blues of the water.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage in Barra do Cahy. However, it's always advisable to check local rules and be mindful of privacy and safety when flying drones in natural or populated areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastal scenery. A waterproof camera or protective casing is useful for water activities like kayaking.
You're welcome to photograph the charming beachside restaurants and the natural beauty. When photographing people, it's always polite to ask for their permission first.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, which allows for a more relaxed vacation. The beach is generally not crowded, offering a sense of privacy and security. The local restaurants are also family-friendly, serving up delicious meals that even picky eaters might enjoy.
🌿 Nature & Tranquility Seekers
Visitors can spend their days swimming in the clear waters, exploring the unique river-sea confluence, or simply lounging on the sand. The opportunity to kayak through the mangroves adds an element of gentle adventure, connecting you deeply with the local ecosystem.
🚗 Adventurous Road Trippers
This destination is perfect for travelers looking to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the pristine shores makes the drive even more satisfying. Pack your sense of adventure and get ready for a memorable road trip!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Barra do Cahy
This historical context adds a layer of depth to the natural beauty of the beach. Visitors can stand on these shores and imagine the moment of discovery, connecting with the past while enjoying the present-day tranquility. It's a destination that appeals not only to beach lovers but also to history enthusiasts.
While the exact location is debated among historians, Barra do Cahy is widely recognized and celebrated for its potential role in this pivotal moment of Brazilian history. The local community embraces this heritage, often referencing it in descriptions of the area.
Navigating the Journey: Road Conditions and Access
Despite the potential 'perrengues' (struggles) of the road, travelers consistently state that the journey is absolutely worth it once you arrive. The pristine and less-crowded nature of Barra do Cahy is a direct result of its slightly more remote access, preserving its untouched charm.
For those without a 4x4, it's possible to arrange local taxi services or guided tours that can handle the terrain. Alternatively, if arriving from Corumbau, a boat crossing might be necessary depending on the tide, adding another unique element to your arrival.
Culinary Delights by the Sea
Travelers often praise the quality and taste of the food, noting that the portions are generous and the prices, while potentially higher due to the location's isolation, are considered reasonable by many, especially when sharing meals. Restaurants like 'Restaurante da Glória' are frequently mentioned for their flavorful dishes and good value.
Beyond the food, the ambiance of dining with your feet near the sand, listening to the waves, and enjoying the ocean breeze makes for a memorable culinary experience. It's the perfect way to relax and refuel after a day of exploring the beach.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit