Ilheus City Guide

Local dishes include moqueca de peixe, acarajé, and shrimp stews. Some Italian and Japanese restaurants exist. Vegan options are limited but fresh produce is abundant. Few places open late.

Nightlife is moderate with beach kiosks, bars featuring live forró or samba music, and a few nightclubs. Weekends and high season are livelier.

Good local coffee reflecting Brazil’s production. Limited specialty shops but decent options exist. Cocoa farm tours sometimes include coffee tasting.

A 10% service charge is common in restaurants; if not included, 10% tip is customary. Taxi tipping is optional but rounding up is usual. Small tips appreciated for other services.

SIM cards are sold in provider shops, kiosks, and some pharmacies. Main providers: Vivo, Claro, TIM with Vivo having best remote coverage. Passport and CPF usually needed to register.

Tourist areas are cleaner; other parts vary. Waste pickup happens regularly but recycling is limited. Overall, a 6 out of 10.

Some 24/7 pharmacies and convenience stores exist. Night clinics are rare. Limited late-night food choices mostly on weekends.

Supermarkets have good common imports. Local markets offer fresh produce. Major stores open 8 AM to 9 PM; smaller shops shorter. Sunday's hours are reduced. Bargaining happens mainly in street markets.

Cards are accepted in bigger stores, restaurants, and hotels. Small vendors, markets, and some taxis prefer cash.

ATMs are common in banks and malls like Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, Itaú, and Caixa Econômica Federal. International withdrawal fees can be high.

Local Brazilian schools are available; international schools are rare. Instruction primarily in Portuguese. Admissions follow Brazilian school calendar.

Community is small with no dedicated spaces or events. Nomads mostly connect through cafes or local contacts.

Several parks and the waterfront offer green areas with shade and running paths. Good for outdoor activities and relaxing.

Waterfront promenade and beaches are popular running spots. Generally safe during day and scenic routes available.

Several gyms available for different training needs.

Some private clubs have tennis courts, mostly clay or hard surfaces. Rentals and coaching are limited.

Padel is uncommon in Ilhéus.

A few local yoga studios offer different styles and drop-in classes. English speakers not guaranteed.

Gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Capoeira. Drop-in classes common but English instruction varies.

No skiing in tropical Ilhéus.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular. Rentals and guided tours exist, sailing and windsurfing less common.

Surf spots in city beaches and nearby areas like Olivença and Itacaré. Warm water year-round with best swells May to October. Suitable for all levels, some schools available.

Limited dive sites nearby, mostly beginner snorkeling with tropical fish. Equipment and tours available seasonally.

Private clinics have better service and some English speakers, public hospitals less so. Hospital São José and Hospital de Ilhéus are main private options. Pharmacies are widespread, some open 24/7. Quality rated 6/10.

Tap water isn't safe to drink. Stick to bottled water.

Several playgrounds and parks like Praça Castro Alves. Family-friendly sights include beaches, Ilhéus Cathedral, Jorge Amado House, and the Cocoa Museum.

Generally accepting with national protections, though conservative areas still exist. No known dedicated venues but public spaces are usually safe.

Many pet-friendly places but policies vary. Veterinary clinics and pet supply stores available. Limited dedicated pet parks.