Where to Stay in Morro de São Paulo, Bahia: Best Accommodation Tips

Choosing a travel destination in Bahia, Brazil, is no easy task. This state is full of stunning places! Among so many incredible options, Morro de São Paulo is definitely a great choice. Located on Tinharé Island, just 60 km from Salvador (by sea), the region is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Bahia.

In this article, I’ll give you a quick overview of what to do in Morro de São Paulo and share tips on where to stay in Morro de São Paulo, based on my personal experience in this amazing destination.

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What to Do in Morro de São Paulo

One of my favorite activities in Morro de São Paulo is walking from the First Beach (Primeira Praia) to the Fifth Beach (Quinta Praia). Yes, that’s what they’re called!

The route is about 6 kilometers long and it’s a great way to see all the beaches at your own pace. If you’re not into walking, you can always get around by moto-taxi, quad bike, or boat.

Nearby beaches like Garapuá (pictured below) and Gamboa are also worth visiting, and a trip to Boipeba Island is another great option. You can get there by boat, 4×4, or quad bike.

Morro de São Paulo is a lively village both day and night. The town center is full of little shops that stay open late, and artisans fill the main square with all kinds of local crafts.

And of course, there are countless bars and restaurants for every taste. If you’re into nightlife, you’ll also find clubs in Morro de São Paulo that keep the party going until sunrise.

Where to Stay in Morro de São Paulo: Best Areas

Morro de São Paulo is divided between the village center and five beaches: First, Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Beach (Primeira, Segunda, Terceira, Quarta e Quinta Praia, in Portuguese). The first two beaches are closest to the village center, where you’ll find most of the bars, restaurants, markets, pharmacies, and shops.

The Third Beach is quieter, with fewer people and fewer businesses. The Fourth and Fifth Beaches are almost deserted, with just a few beachfront hotels and restaurants. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, these are the best beaches to stay in Morro de São Paulo.

Where to Stay in Morro de São Paulo on a Budget

• Che Lagarto Hostel – Located in the village center, just a 5-minute walk from First Beach and close to restaurants and markets. It offers private and shared rooms, a shared kitchen, and a game room. A great choice for solo travelers looking to make new friends.
• Morro Beach Hotel – Located on Third Beach, right on the seafront, this is a rustic wooden-style accommodation with a small beach bar, tables, chairs, and umbrellas.
• Pousada da Eli – Also on Third Beach, just a few meters from the ocean, in a quiet and peaceful setting. Some rooms are studio-style with small kitchens, and all have air conditioning.

Looking for more options of where to stay in Morro de São Paulo? Here are some recommendations divided by area:

Where to Stay in Morro de São Paulo in the Village Center

• Passárgada Pousada – Located on the way to the lighthouse, this elegant guesthouse offers stunning views, an infinity pool, a spa, and relaxing treatments. Some rooms even feature private wooden decks overlooking the sea. The on-site restaurant is also excellent.
• Universo Pol Bamboo Hostel – Set inside a natural reserve yet still near the center, this eco-friendly hostel has a fully sustainable structure and is ideal for travelers seeking connection with nature. On Tuesday nights, there’s live music with local artists—a beautiful event not to miss!

Where to Stay in Morro de São Paulo – First Beach

• Pousada Ilha da Saudade – With a privileged location near the village center and right by the sea, this guesthouse has a beautiful rooftop terrace with pool and ocean views. The spacious apartments come with kitchens, and most have beach views.

Where to Stay in Morro de São Paulo – Second Beach

• Pousada Bahia Bella – Just a few meters from Second Beach, this charming guesthouse has tasteful rustic décor. Most rooms overlook a beautiful garden, and the balconies come with hammocks for relaxing.
• Pousada Patuá do Morro – Situated between Second and Third Beach, this property is highly rated on Booking (9.4). It features a large outdoor area with a spacious pool, bar, and garden. A great choice for families looking for where to stay in Morro de São Paulo.

Where to Stay in Morro de São Paulo – Third Beach

• Chez Max Pousada – Perfect for those seeking immersion in nature, with a beachfront location and lush garden. Guests can stay in rustic bungalows with garden views or rooms overlooking the ocean. It also has a beachfront restaurant and bike rentals.
• Village Paraíso Tropical – Enjoy breakfast in the garden right in front of the sea. This guesthouse is in a quieter part of the beach and has a welcoming outdoor area with a pool and lounge chairs.
• Pousada Caeira – Another beachfront option on Third Beach, surrounded by a large green area with a pool and plenty of spots to relax. The breakfast is highly praised, especially for its wide variety of tropical fruits.
• Villa dos Corais – In the same beachfront style, but with extra amenities like a gym, hammock area, spa, hot tub, game room, and even a tennis court. Truly a dream place to stay!

Where to Stay in Morro de São Paulo – Fourth and Fifth Beaches

• Hotel Porto do Zimbo – A cozy, welcoming stay with a garden and pool overlooking the sea, as is typical in this region. The property also offers transfers, bike rentals, a bar, and a restaurant.
• Hotel Patachocas – The largest hotel in Morro de São Paulo, highly rated by guests. It’s located on Fifth Beach, in a former coconut farm. Rooms are spacious, well-decorated, and all have balconies. This hotel also offers extensive facilities: volleyball and soccer courts, fitness classes, massage services, children’s activities, and a game room. Plus, it provides free shuttle service to the village center at various times of the day.

Where to Stay in Gamboa Beach

Some travelers prefer to stay in Gamboa Beach, a quieter village just a few kilometers from Morro de São Paulo. When the tide is low, you can walk to the center in about 4 km, or take a quick boat ride instead.

• Casa na Rua do Toque – A rental home inside a condominium, featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, living and TV rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a garden. Guests also have access to shared facilities with a pool and cabana.
• Casa na Rua da Frente – A four-bedroom house, ideal for larger groups. Nearby, Casa Maré Zen is another excellent choice in Gamboa, cozy and fully equipped.
• Mama África Hostel – A rustic yet stylish hostel with a pool, bar, garden, game room, and shared kitchen. It offers both dorms and private rooms, and breakfast is included.

Now that you know the best places to stay in Morro de São Paulo, it’s time to start planning your trip! Whether you want to be close to the action in the village center, relax in a beachfront pousada on Fourth or Fifth Beach, or enjoy the local vibe in Gamboa, there are accommodation options for every style and budget.

Morro de São Paulo truly has it all: paradise beaches, vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and a wide variety of stays, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. So pack your bags and get ready to experience this Bahian paradise.

Article by Bárbara Nicoli, experienced traveler and contributor to the Janelas Abertas blog.

Photo credits: Unsplash/Creative Commons and Bárbara Nicoli.

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