Things to do in Morro De São Paulo
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Beaches
The waters of Morro's four conveniently named main beaches are mostly calm, shallow and warm, and their sands are narrow and swallowed by the high tides.
Tiny Primeira Praia is lined with pousadas and has a decent surf break. Deep Segunda Praia (500m) is the 'action' beach with pousadas, restaurants, nightclubs and a sea of tables and chairs. Pousadas and anchored boats dominate one end of Terceira Praia (1km). Once you pass a pair of restaurants, Quarta Praia (2km) is a long, lovely stretch of sand graced by tall, swaying palms. For even more isolated peace, continue on at low tide to Praia do Encanto (5km) or further down the island to Garapuá, which has one pousada.
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Boat Trips
A boat trip around the island, with stops at the Garapuá and Moreré offshore reefs and the villages of Boipeba and historical Cairu, is obligatory. You'll fly over waves in a 10-person speedboat past gorgeous beach and mangrove scenery, swim, snorkel and stop at a floating oyster restaurant outside Caravelas. These trips can be booked through the many local agencies.
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Fortress Gate
The town's icon is a 17th-century carved-stone Fortress Gate, which welcomes each arrival from its position above the dock. Around the corner at the point are the fort ruins (1630). Catching the rare sight of the sun setting over the river and mangroves from the fort is a visitor ritual.
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Gamboa
At low tide, take a walk to Gamboa, the next village on the river side of the island. The coast between the villages is filled with nooks to hide in and rocks to climb on. To start, head down Rua Fonte Grande and head right at the crossroads. You can catch the ferry back.
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Fonte do Ceu
A hike to the small Fonte do Ceu waterfall passes through the neighboring village of Gamboa, with an opportunity to do a bit of body painting from a cliff of colored clays. Tours can be booked through local agencies.
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Sabor da Terra
Excellent seafood is prepared simply or with Bahian spice. Fish moqueca and casquinha de siri (shredded crab meat) are excellent. The attached pousada rents pleasant rooms (doubles R$150).
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Ponto de Encontro Arte & Culinária
Filled with vibrant paintings, sculpture and tilework, this inspired eatery serves eclectic dishes, including vegetarian options – try the baked stuffed eggplant or the chocolate-covered pears.
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Chez Max
Overlooking Terceira Praia, Chez Max is an idyllic retreat where you can dine on a grassy lawn facing the sea. Sizzling grilled dishes, seafood and plenty of Bahian cuisine fill out the menu.
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Pizza & Restaurante Bianco e Nero
This fashionable Italian pizzeria and eatery is hugely popular for its fresh seafood pastas and oven-fired pizzas served on a large terrace overlooking the main pedestrian thoroughfare.
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Jamaica Bar
Outdoor bars are scattered along Segunda Praia. Current favorites are Music Bar 87, with its live music nightly (usually a bossa nova guitarist), and the reggae-infused Jamaica Bar .
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Ristorante Mediterraneo
This quaint open-sided Italian restaurant serves fettuccine with shrimp and pesto, grilled fish, pasta al arrabiata and other old-world offerings. It's on the main strip.
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Caipirinha Vendors
Don't miss dexterous vendors along Caminho da Praia and on Segundo Praia mixing delicious caipirinhas - made with fresh fruit.
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Café das Artes
This pretty café doubles as an art space; the patio overlooking the square is a plum spot for a light lunch or a little night music.
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Tia Lita
This inexpensive, popular restaurant serves home-cooked grilled fish, chicken or beef. It’s down a narrow lane, just off the beach.
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Lighthouse
The Lighthouse (1835) above the fort affords a fantastic view over Morro's beaches and has a zip line descending to Primeira Praia.
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Music Bar 87
Music Bar 87 is a favorite with its live music nightly (usually a bossa nova guitarist).
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Dance Parties
Pick up fliers for current Dance Parties at shops along Caminho da Praia.
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Forno a Lenha
This all-you-can-eat pizzeria is a favorite after a day at the beach.
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Jeep Trips
Jeep Trips to Boipeba are possible. Book through local agencies.
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