Morro de Sao Paulo - Bahia - Brazil

This Brazilian beach is tucked away on the Tinhare Island, an hour and a half off the coast of Salvador, Bahia - home to spectacular beaches in its own right. Morro de Sao Paulo consists of not one, but four beaches, each with its own personality. And the most fun part about Morro de Sao Paulo beach is the famous zip line that takes you from one of the morros or hills, right down to the beach!

The village on the island is know to have grand festas. Hotels, pousadas, and restaurants line the "Rua Caminho das Praias", or "Beach Road". It's all breathtaking, but make a mental note that the little village doubles in population in Brazilian summer - (North American winter).

Beach "One" has had summer houses on it ever since anyone can remember. Nowadays, they serve as "pousadas" or "inns" and home to surfers from all over the globe during the winter (American summer) months. The waves coming into the first beach are simply "knarly". During the summer season, treat yourself to a nice getaway with crystal-clear waters. This first beach is also home to most of the seaside restaurants. A word of caution - if you're not from Bahia, make sure you ask for "less" spicy/heavy foods.

If you're looking for excitement, head down to beach number "Two". The action never stops. Brazilian "Luaus" take place along the beach every night. There is a music merriment multi-culture like nowhere else. The younger generation, and young at heart hang out here. Don't be surprised if the parties continue till sunrise.

But that's not all. The "second" beach is home to the island's "Rodas de Capoeira". You've heard about this different form of Brazilian martial art. Once a real weapon, now an acrobatic dance, the "Rodas" takes place each day at sunset on a special stage. Just follow the crowd.

Oh, and if you get a chance, try the staircase at the "second" beach. You'll be able to look out over a few beaches to the blue waters and pristine beaches. Don't forget your camera.

On to beach three. Here you will find more pousadas and restaurants. As we make our way down the four beaches, you'll note they get progressively more quiet. But here, a special treat. If you're a diver, or even if snorkeling is a pastime, Caita Island will deliver. A large barrier reed is just off shore. Everything can be rented locally. Boat trips to other, spectacular dive sites can be arranged. The island is right off the beach - you can paddle over in a kayak.

And, finally, the "Fourth" beach. It goes on forever. Another reef, serving as a natural barrier, allows coral to form in the hundreds of natural pools that line the shore. This is nature at its best. And if you happen to peek below the surface, the "Fourth" beach provides opportunity to see some of the most colorful fish of Brazil.

Quieter than the other three, you'll enjoy the sound of the surf and gentle breezes through the hundreds of palm fronds. Take a nap, or a long walk. Watch the sailboats off shore. Dream. This is paradise.

To get here, you can take the launch that leaves Valenca or Salvador. There are catamarans for hire as well. Ask for Morro de Sao Paulo - your ticket to South American wonder.

BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - white/off white powder, medium grain
• Facilities - many along the beach and beach road
• Shade - tall palms, some trees/structures in areas
• Sports - full service all beaches
• Notes - one: surf/tan, two: party beach, three: snorkel/diving, four: seclusion

Close by:

- Morro Lighthouse (1835)
- Old Fort Ruins (1630), along with dolphin sightings at sunset, recommended
- Diving - rich marine life, visibility 6 to 15 meters
- Sailing - to other islands, unforgettable