Surf Travel Guide: Guarajuba

Tired of crowded lineups and searching for that perfect Brazilian escape? I get it; finding a wave you can have practically to yourself is the dream, and in Guarajuba, it’s a reality.

Why Guarajuba?

This spot matters because it’s the gateway to Bahia’s renowned “Costa dos Coqueiros” (Coconut Coast). With over 15 miles of coastline dotted with surf breaks, you get variety and consistency. The best part is the warm water and the laid-back vibe, a world away from the more intense surf scenes further south.

→ Guarajuba works best when a south-southeast swell hits between May and September.
↳ That swell direction lights up the reef and beach breaks, creating fun, rippable walls.

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting to paradise is straightforward. You’ll be flying into Salvador, the capital of Bahia, and from there, it’s a short hop to the coast.

• Fly into Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA) in Salvador, which is about 26 miles (42 kilometers) from Guarajuba.
• → A taxi from the airport is the easiest option after a long flight.
  ↳ It takes about 40 minutes and will cost around $30 USD / 165 BRL.
• Once in Guarajuba, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the coastline, but ride-sharing apps and local taxis are readily available for shorter trips.

When to Surf

The prime surf season runs from May to September, when consistent south swells deliver waves in the 3-6 foot range. The water temperature hovers around a balmy 79°F (26°C) year-round, so you can leave your wetsuit at home. The best tide is typically a mid to high tide, which helps the waves break over the reefs more cleanly.

Surf Breaks

• Praia de Guarajuba: Right in town, this is a consistent beach break with multiple peaks.
  → A short walk from most hotels, it’s super accessible. The wave is relatively mellow and fun, making it perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers.
• Itacimirim: Just a few miles down the road, you'll find this exposed point break.
  → A quick taxi or a short drive will get you there. It offers a longer, peeling left-hand wave that’s best for intermediate surfers. Can get a bit faster and more powerful than Guarajuba.
• Praia do Forte: A 15-minute drive north, this is a well-known reef break.
  → The wave is faster and can be shallow, offering both lefts and rights. This break is best suited for advanced surfers due to the coral bottom and more challenging conditions.

Where to Stay (Hotels)

→ All three of these options are highly rated and offer great access to the beach.

• Budget ($): Pousada Planeta Guarajuba
  Nightly rate: Approx. $40 USD / 220 BRL.
  A clean, simple, and friendly place with a pool, perfect for surfers on a budget. It's a short walk to the main beach.
• Mid-Range ($$): Pousada Villa Coelho
  Nightly rate: Approx. $65 USD / 360 BRL.
  Offers more comfort with a great pool area and gardens, still very close to the beach and local restaurants.
• Luxury ($$$): Vila Galé Marés
  Nightly rate: Approx. $250+ USD / 1380+ BRL (all-inclusive).
  A full-blown resort with stunning ocean views, multiple pools, a spa, and all-inclusive dining for the ultimate relaxing surf trip.

Food & Drink

• Local Beer: Skol (Pilsner)
  → A light, crisp, and refreshing beer you’ll find everywhere, perfect for a post-surf cool down. Price is around $1.50 USD / 8 BRL.
• Local Lunch: Moqueca de Peixe
  → A must-try Bahian fish stew made with coconut milk, dendê oil, and fresh catch of the day, served with rice and farofa. Expect to pay around $12 USD / 65 BRL for a generous portion.