Imagine a luxurious bohemian paradise, similar to those pictures you find of Tulum and Mykonos, where people dress up in flowy clothes and beach clubs play techno music all day long. What if I told you that Brazil also has a place like this, further from the international hype of Rio and São Paulo? Welcome to Trancoso, the place you’d want to be if you’re looking to blend sunny days with electrifying nights.
Trancoso is one of the main beach destinations among Brazilians who are willing to spend a little more money on glamorous fun – with some of the best food culture and parties in Brazil, and with a blend of barefoot dancing and well-balanced cocktails, this is a paradise that will make you feel the boho life at its finest.
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Keep reading to find our guide on how to get there, the best things to do, and the best food and party spots in the town!
Getting to Trancoso
Fly into the Porto Seguro Airport, the closest one to Trancoso. Major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Salvador have direct flights to Porto Seguro. Once you get to the airport, grab a cab and head to Trancoso – the most straightforward way to get there. Though it’s a bit pricier, the convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage, is worth it. There are regular buses from Porto Seguro to Trancoso for those on a tighter budget. It’s approximately a one-hour drive from the airport to Trancoso.
Another interesting way is to take a short ferry ride across the Buranhém River from Porto Seguro to Arraial d’Ajuda. The ferry journey is about 10 minutes. From Arraial d’Ajuda, you can hop on a bus or a shared van (“combi”) to Trancoso. This route is particularly popular among backpackers and those looking to immerse themselves in the local vibe.
Pro Tip:
While the journey during the day lets you enjoy the beauty of Bahia, traveling at night might be dangerous since the roads are poorly illuminated.
What to Do in Trancoso
While Trancoso is famed for its nightlife, its daytime charm is just as captivating. Aside from the beach clubs open all day, there are plenty of other things to do in the town.
Head to the Beach
Trancoso is packed with beaches and beach clubs, lively all year round. During the day, you will spend most of your time at the beach, snacking on local vendor cuisine, swimming around in the ocean, socializing, partying, and relaxing until the sun starts to set. Here are some of the most popular beaches in Trancoso:
Praia dos Nativos
It is one of Trancoso’s most popular beaches, and for good reason. Here, the river meets the sea, creating freshwater lagoons where you can dip. Coconut palms line the shore, and local vendors set up shop, offering refreshing drinks and tasty snacks. Consider renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the waters.
Praia dos Coqueiros
Less crowded than Praia dos Nativos, this beach is perfect for those seeking solitude. The waters are crystal clear and ideal for snorkeling. Dive in and get acquainted with marine life. Beach bars, or ‘barracas,’ are scattered here, serving local delicacies. And if you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a beach volleyball game.
Explore Local Artisan Shops
The Quadrado, the main square of Trancoso, might be the epicenter of nightlife, but it transforms into a lively marketplace during the day. Here, local artisans showcase their crafts, and you can walk around and find unique souvenirs to bring home.
- Handmade Goods: From colorful hammocks to intricately designed bags, these products reflect the rich textile traditions of the region.
- Jewelry: Crafted using local stones, seeds, and fish scales, the jewelry here is unique and carries a touch of Bahian soul.
- Ceramics: Inspired by the vibrant nature of Trancoso, local potters create stunning pieces ranging from decorative tiles to functional kitchenware.
- Woodwork: The dense forests of Bahia provide artisans with quality timber. You’ll find beautifully carved furniture and sculptures that make perfect souvenirs.
- Clothes: Trancoso is packed with local designer clothes, and here you can find high-quality items to add to your closet, all with unique prints and patterns.
Beyond this, consider walking in the nearby Atlantic forest trails, as Brazil is a hiker’s paradise. The biodiversity is astounding and offers a glimpse into the heart of Bahia. And if you’re up for a bit of history, visit the Church of St. John the Baptist. It’s one of Brazil’s oldest churches and offers panoramic ocean views.
Where to Eat in Trancoso
Trancoso doesn’t just serve food; it offers experiences on a plate. Blending local cuisines with international influences, the best restaurants in Trancoso will offer flavors never imagined by your taste buds.
Pousada Capim Santo
Located right in the heart of the Quadrado, Pousada Capim Santo is a boutique hotel with a restaurant that serves as a culinary revelation. The restaurant’s garden setting is the perfect backdrop for combining traditional Bahian ingredients with contemporary cooking techniques. Their fish wrapped in banana leaf is an aromatic delight, the steam-revealing flavors infused with native herbs. The caipirinha menu here is extensive, featuring exotic fruits you might have never heard of.
O Cacau
This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a gastronomic journey. Every dish pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of Bahia. Their moqueca is the stuff of legends—a coconut milk-based stew with fish or shrimp, laced with palm oil and served with a side of rice and farofa. The ambiance, with its dim lighting and wooden décor, is warm and intimate, perfect for a romantic dinner.
Maritaca
While Trancoso is quintessentially Brazilian, Maritaca brings a slice of Italy to this tropical paradise. Their wood-fired pizzas, with a thin crust and generous toppings, have earned quite a reputation. And their caprese salad? Simply divine.
Restaurante Jacaré do Brasil
Away from the bustling Quadrado, this spot offers an eclectic menu. From Bahian classics to Mediterranean delights, all dishes on their menu are unique and please every palate. Their wine list is impressive, featuring selections from Brazilian and international vineyards.
Where to Party in Trancoso?
Trancoso is already filled with day parties at its beach clubs, but as the sun sets, the mode shifts into a nocturnal craze like no other. At night, Beach clubs come even more alive with the beats of Bahia, echoing the spirit of this bohemian haven. Dive into the night with a dance, a drink, or simply the whispers of the ocean under the starlit sky.
UXUA Beach Club
This is not just a beach club; it’s an institution in Trancoso. Renowned for its eco-conscious design, the place beautifully merges luxury with nature. By day, it’s a relaxed sun-lounger paradise. By night, the tempo rises. With live performances, DJs, and a vibrant crowd, UXUA promises an unforgettable party atmosphere. Their signature cocktails, especially those with cachaça, are a must-try.
El Gordo
Elevated on a cliff, El Gordo offers panoramic views of the Atlantic. Its sophisticated setting—complete with an infinity pool that seems to merge into the sea—is paired with a lively nightlife atmosphere. The musical lineup is diverse, catering to all moods, from soulful bossa nova to upbeat house music. Their tapas menu is a delightful accompaniment to their extensive list of cocktails and wines.
Pousada Estrela D’ Água
Often seen as the epitome of luxury in Trancoso, Pousada Estrela D’ Água is where the elite gathers. The ambiance is chic and tropical, with straw roofs and plush seating. Regularly hosting international DJs, it is known for its exclusive parties that often run till dawn. Their beachfront location lets you take a night dip whenever the mood strikes.
Fly Club Beach Lounge
Fly Club is a poem to contemporary design and offers a sleek and modern ambiance. The LED-lit pool changes colors as the night progresses, reflecting the evolving mood of the club. While their cocktail menu is innovative, their sunset parties genuinely set them apart.
Aside from beach clubs hosting parties year-round, you can always find concerts and events in Trancoso. These are held in special venues and offer a unique town experience.
Spend New Year’s Eve in Trancoso
If there’s a magical time of the year to go to Trancoso, and Brazil in general, it is for the New Year’s parties. Although prices may be a little higher, you will have an experience like no other, which will be unforgettable.
New Year’s Eve in Trancoso is a magical blend of tradition and festivity. The town transforms into a vibrant hotspot, with its iconic Quadrado covered in fairy lights and beaches becoming moonlit dance floors. Locals and tourists dressed in traditional white join in celebrations that range from intimate offerings to the sea goddess Iemanjá to grand parties at upscale beach clubs. With fireworks painting the sky and rhythms of Bahia setting the tone, ringing in the new year, here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A Guide to Traveling to Trancoso, Bahia
With its beaches, nightlife, and traditions, Trancoso embodies a Brazilian paradise. From its easy-going daytime charms to its electrifying celebrations under the Bahian sky, every moment in Trancoso is an experience waiting to be cherished. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking solace, a couple on a romantic escapade, or a group ready to dive into the party’s heart, Trancoso welcomes you with open arms.