Port of call

Ilhéus, Brazil

Cruises to South America

Description — Ilhéus, Brazil

Ilhéus is one of the most beautiful resort cities in Brazil. It offers everything for a comfortable vacation: an average annual temperature of 24ºC, 100 kilometers of snow-white beaches, and excellent infrastructure.

Ilhéus is located on the coast of the Costa do Cacau (Cocoa Coast) in the state of Bahia. The “Cocoa Coast” tourism capital features many interesting sights, some of which are recognized as part of humanity’s historical heritage. Ilhéus is also famous for its beautiful beaches. The old seaside city is considered one of the best resorts in the country.

Location on the map

Sights

1.

Beaches of Ilhéus

Acuípe is a magnificent beach in Ilhéus with a unique landscape.

The beach’s mixed vegetation (typical vegetation of sandy coasts with sections of coconut palms) gives it a special charm. Near the beach, you can find several hotels and guesthouses with excellent facilities.

Acuípe Beach, quiet and peaceful, is perfect for a family holiday. Fresh air, beautiful nature, warm and calm water-ideal for swimming in the ocean-will make your stay unforgettable. Also, Acuípe Beach is an excellent place for walks and for fishing.

2.

Churches of Ilhéus

The Church of Saint George in Ilhéus (Igreja Matriz de Sã o Jorge dos Ilh us) was opened in 1556 and today is a historic landmark of the city. It is the most prominent building in the center of Ilhéus; its architecture is striking in its simplicity and perfection. The beautiful and majestic Catholic cathedral from the 16th-17th centuries blends harmoniously into the local picturesque landscape.

The church is located near the Ves vio restaurant in the historic center of the city and is ideal for meditation and prayers. The magnificent interior of the church is adorned with images of Saint George and other saints. There is also a large panel that tells the story of Ilhéus, and the Museum of Sacred Art, founded in 1970.

3.

Beaches of Ilhéus

Norte is a wonderful beach with lush vegetation.

Norte Beach is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful beaches in this area. Here you can see both exotic coconut palms and vegetation typical of the Atlantic Forest.

Norte Beach is a great place to swim or simply take a walk.

This beach is also sure to appeal to fishing and surfing enthusiasts. A river called Almada runs parallel to the beach; on the riverbank, guests can find tents and a long bicycle path.

4.

Cathedrals of Ilhéus

The Cathedral of Saint Sebastian is a majestic structure in Ilhéus.

The cathedral was built on the site of the Saint Sebastian chapel, which was ordered to be demolished in 1927. There were many discussions regarding the design and location of the new cathedral. In search of a solution, the mayor, Eusíneo Lavin, consulted Archimedes Memoria, director of the School of Fine Arts in Rio de Janeiro. The cathedral was built in an eclectic style by architect Solomon Silveira. More than 30 years were spent on its construction.

The Cathedral of Saint Sebastian was opened in 1967.

The height of the cathedral, including the main dome, is 48 meters. The building’s façade is decorated with stained-glass windows, arches, columns, and the smallest details in the neoclassical style.

The cathedral has immense cultural value and is one of the main attractions of the municipality.

5.

George Amado House of Culture is the place where the famous Brazilian writer Jorge Amado spent his childhood and wrote his first works.

Jorge Amado House is a neoclassical-style building. Construction of the house was started by the writer’s father, João Amado de Farias, in 1920 and completed by 1928. The building’s area is about 600 square meters.

Before the House of Culture was opened here, the building housed a law faculty of one of the local educational institutions. In 1988, the house was donated by the state to the city of Ilhéus. In 1997, the building was opened to visitors. At the Jorge Amado House of Culture, you can see the books, documents, photographs, and personal belongings of the writer.

6.

Cathedrals of Ilhéus

The Cathedral of Saint Sebastian is a majestic temple in Ilhéus and the main attraction of the municipality.

The shrine was built in 1967 on the site of the former Saint Sebastian chapel, which was demolished in 1927. The temple was built by architect Solomon Silveira in an eclectic style. Construction of this architectural masterpiece lasted about 30 years.

The height of the building, taking into account the main dome, is 48 meters. The façade of the temple is decorated with stained-glass windows, arches, columns, and the smallest details in the neoclassical style.

7.

Beaches of Ilhéus

Cristo Beach is one of the many beaches of Ilhéus.

On the beach, there is almost always enough noise and a lot of people.

The beach is located at a place where the river meets the sea, and the seawater mixes with the river water. The main attraction of this beach is the statue of Christ the Redeemer.

The waters of Cristo Beach are excellent for water sports enthusiasts, in particular activities such as sailing, kayaking, and water skiing. Kayaks and sailboats can be rented here. It is also very pleasant just to take a stroll along this beach, enjoying the magnificent scenery.