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                                          Morro de São Paulo

 

HISTORY

Martim Afonso of Sousa, landed in 1531 and baptized this island “Tynharéa” and the Bahian accent soon transformed that name to “Tinharé”.

Tinharé Island is situated to the north of the Camamu Bay archipelago, South of Bahia, a region known as Tabuleiro Valenciano or better still, the Coast of Dendê. Due to its distinct geographical location, the island was subject to innumerable attacks by French and Dutch ships, a true free land for pirates during the colonial period.

Under the jurisdiction of São Jorge dos Ilhéus, the land was given to Jorge de Figueiredo Correa by D.João III, and assigned to Francisco Romero for settlement. The constant attacks of the Aymoré Indians and Tupiniquins against the local regional population helped to quickly populate the islands, and in 1535 Morro de São Paulo village was born on the north side of the island.

Morro de São Paulo protected the so called "barra falsa da Baía de Todos os Santos", strategic entrance to the Itaparica Channel and to the Santo Antônio Fortress (currently named Farol da Barra). Additionally, the Tinharé Channel was essential for delivery of supplies from major production centers to the capital, Salvador. The geographical importance of the island during the colonial period justifies the richness of historical monuments, today protected by the National Historical Patrimony.

CRONOLOGY

1531 Martim Afonso of Sousa lands in the Tinharé Island, which eventually becomes part of the Captaincy of São Jorge dos Ilhéus. D.João III donates the land to Jorge of Figueiredo Correa, who begins settlement.

1535 Francisco Romero and the local population found Morro de São Paulo village, located on the extreme north part of the island.

1624 Commander Johan Van Dortt and his squad land on the island during their route to Salvador.

1628 The Dutch Almirant [Admiral?, like a general?] Pieterzoon Hiyn leads an attack and loots the village.

1630 Governor Diogo Luiz of Oliveira initiates construction of the Fortress.

1728 Completion of the Forte da Ponta Fortress and wall along the island. Defeat of the French Admiral Villegaignon by Portuguese troops.

1746 Construction of Fonte Grande, the largest water supply system of colonial Bahia.

1845 Conclusion of the Church and Santo Antônio Convent, the N. Sra da Luz Chapel.

1855 Engineer Carson finalizes the construction of the lighthouse.

1859 The Royal Family and D. Pedro II. visit the island

FIRST BEACH

The first summer houses were built on this beach. Today most of them have become "pousadas"/inns, stores or restaurants, and the few that remain are rented to tourists throughout the year.

Similar to the houses converted into "pousadas", the old beach kiosks, almost all owned by local families, acquired a more international ambiance, not only on the menu, but in the music as well.

The first beach is also known for marine attractions. Ride a banana boat or rent surfboards and diving equipment. This beach also serves as the landing area for the tirolesa, or zipline, from the lighhouse.

SECOND BEACH

This is perhaps the most famous beach of the island. Anyone who visits the island ends up enjoying the night life here at least once. Well known especially among young people, parties go on invariably until the sun rises. It is undoubtedly the most festive beach, where everybody goes to see and to be seen.

Partying aside, the greatest number of tents are concentrated on Second Beach and it also forms the stage for "rodas de capoeira" at the end of the day. You'll also discover volleyball, futvolley, soccer and frescobol.

The staircase that leads to Second beach deserves a look. From the lookout it is possible to take in the vastness of blue waters that surround the island, and the sandy bottom during low tide.

THIRD BEACH

Rounding the corner of Ilha da Saudade, you arrive at Third Beach. This beach also offers several accomodation options: tents, inns, restaurants and campsites.

All of the beaches are great for diving, but this one is special due to Caitá Island, formed by a large barrier of coral reefs. The underwater view offers coral and fish of all colors and shapes. It's possible to rent all necessary equipment, from a mask and snorkel to a full set of diving equipment. Group boat trips can be arranged as well. An interesting option is to paddle your way to the island by cayak.

FOURTH BEACH

At first sight, Fourth Beach appears to have no end. A great barrier of coral forms innumerable natural swimming pools along this beach. With only a diving mask, you will feel part of this paradise. An infinity of colorful fish don't mind sharing their habitat with visitors.

Fourth Beach is much quieter than her sisters, you can't hear the commotion from the other beaches, only the breeze and the soft sound of the sea. It's a perfect place to rest, read or to take a nap beneath the shade if you resist the temptation to keep walking, as far as the eye can see.

Following Fourth Beach, the first entrance goes to Zimbo, a small village. Entering Zimbo, there are several trails that lead to the village of Gamboa, or to the mount [hill] of Mangaba.

ENCANTO BEACH

Walking a little further, after crossing a mangrove swamp and a small river, is the Fifth Beach or Beach of Enchantment. Until recently, it was still considered part of Fourth beach, as well as all of the extension of beach to the source of the river that separates the island of Tinharé from the island of Boipeba. Before arriving to Boipeba, there is the small village of Garapuá, a fishing town with a marvelous inlet.

GARAPUÁ

Along the way to the small neighboring island of Boipeba, you’ll come across the little fishing village with a marvilous inlet of calm, crystalline waters. There are a few simple pousadas here, but nothing like the tourist scene of Morro.

BOIPEBA

The small island of Tinharé is separated by Rio do Inferno (Hell River). From Morro de Sao Paulo, tractors (yes, tractors used in plowing fields) and small watercraft leave daily to bring travelers to this island. Visit www.boipebabahia.com.br.

PONTA DA PEDRA ("Tip of the Rock")

This beach provides access to the town of Gamboa. It is almost a 30 minute walk from the dock of Morro de Sao Paulo to the dock of Gamboa.

This area is called Tip of the Rock or beach of Gamboa by its inhabitants. The beaches are surrounded by rocks and transparent calm waters. Tip of the Rock is still considered "unspoiled", as you will not find any tents or party-goers here, only the local yacht club, where sailboats are anchored.

A little ahead there is a clay erosion area - it is said that taking a "mud bath" in this clay is good for the skin. It is worth the visit, so don't miss it.

GAMBOA BEACH

After a 20 minute walk along the beach of the Tip of the Rock, there is the town of the Gamboa. Gamboa, until recent years seemed to be kilometers away from Morro de Sao Paulo, for there was no sign of the tourism development that was bustling in Morro de Sao Paulo. It has continued being a peaceful fishing village, without the "international" atmosphere of the neighboring town. Perhaps this is the reason why some inhabitants have moved here and built houses and inns. However, although the infrastructure has developed somewhat, with good "pousadas" (inns) and restaurants and regional cuisine, the peaceful atmosphere of this fishing town is still preserved.

Many tourists who prefer the calmness choose to stay in gamboa and stroll to Morro when they want a little agitation or to people-watch along main street and then return to the quiet native town.

In Gamboa, the waters are calm and crystalline and the beach serene, with fewpeople moving about. The majority of the island locals live in Gamboa, which provides the tourist a glimpse of true native island life and culture.

FORT BEACH

The Fortress Beach that appears only during low tide, reveals a strip of sand next to the natural swimming pools that are ideal for diving or snorkeling. Access, as one might guess, is located at the end of the Fortress ruins.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Being an island, there is no vehicular access to Morro de São Paulo. Until recently, tractors for garbage collection, transportation of heavy materials,tours to distant beaches and to and from pousadas on the Fourth Beach were the only motorized vehicles allowed.

Today however, although vehicles are not permitted on the beaches and main roads (i.e. Caminho da Praia, Fonte Grande), there are buggy-taxis on the roads that parallel the beaches, through Zimbo, Campo da Mangaba and the Gamboa village.

The electrical current is 220V

There is celular coverage as well as public telephones and cybercafes.

There is no banking system on Morro; however, there is a Banco do Brasil ATM.

Some establishments, like pousadas, restaurants, and stores accept major credit cards. However, it’s paramount to have cash for supermarkets, bakeries, art shops and beach kiosks.

The following banks have offices in Valenca, should you decide to take a short boat trip to the city: Banco do Brasil, Caixa Econômica Federal e Bradesco. Be aware that none of these offices offers 24-hour service.

Arriving at the Morro de Sao Paulo dock, you'll be surrounded by baggage porters and tourist guides. As there are no cars on Morro and many stairs to climb, you'll need someone to carry your bags,but negotiate the price beforehand. If you didn't make a reservation prior to arriving on Morro, at least have a list in hand for a few pousadas that suit your tastes and price range. Wandering behind a guide going from place to place is not a lot of fun.

IT'S GOOD TO KNOW ...

Area – 433 km²

From Salvador – 308 km

Coordinates – 13º28’ lat. S 39º02' long. O

Climate – humid

Average Temperature – 31,4 ºC high. 21,8 ºC low. 25.3ºC average

Rainy Season – May - July (Source: Secretaria da Cultura e Turismo do Estado da Bahia)

CONTACTS

Secretaria de Administração de Morro de São Paulo

Secretário e Vice-Prefeito: Exmo. José Ribeiro de Souza Cunha Filho (Zeca Ribeiro)

josecunha1@hotmail.com

+55 75 3652 1077

Diretor de Adm. do M.S.P. : Sr Anilton Rosa

Superintendente Municipal: Sr. Marcos

Secretário de Segurança Pública: Sr. Geovane

Secretaria Municipal de Turismo de Cairu:

Secretária Municipal de Turismo: Sra. Petrusca Mello

Supervisor Municipal de Turismo: João Pedro Ribeiro

seturcairu@terra.com.br

+55 75 3652 1064

Prefeitura Municipal de Cairu:

+55 75 3653 2145 / 75 3653 2122

Secretária: Ilma. Jaqueline Palma

+55 75 9972 7960

CAP | Conselho de Administração Participativa

Diretora Executiva: Sra. Petrusca Mello

petruscamello@terra.com.br

Secretário: Luciano Neves

+55 75 8139 3344

Posto Médico de Morro de SP:

+55 75 9982 2619

Ambulancha 1 (Tinharé):

+55 75 9973 0908

+55 75 3653 7082

Sr. Jailton

Farmácia do Morro de SP:

+55 75 3652 1041

Posto Polícia Militar:

+55 75 3652 1647

Delegacia de Cairú

+55 75 3653-2163

Viva Morro Associação de Agências de Viagens:

vivamorro@yahoo.com.br

AMOSP Associação dos Artesãos e Artistas Moradores de Morro de São Paulo:

Presidenta: Silvanisie Santos de Souza

+55 75 8195 2130

amospmorro@hotmail.com

Espaço Educação (13 anos) | Educação Infantil e Ensino Fundamental (1ºano a 5ºano):

Conveniada ao Sistema Positivo de Ensino há 6 anos

+55 75 3652 1492

Diretoras: Sandra/Lisiene

Help us to preserve the island and keep it clean during your visit.

TOURS

Horse Rental:

(75)3652-1070 | (75)3652-1056 | (75)9147-0952

Some unforgettable trips while visiting Morro are organized by the local tourism agencies.

Tractor trips that go as far as Boipeba Island, leaving in the morning and returning in the afternoon.

Boat or lancha departures go to Ponta do Curral (leaving the mainland near the island) or Coroa (a small island/sandbar)

Trip around the island, passing by Boipeba and Cairu.

DIVING

Undoubtedly, one of the most popular activities in Morro de São Paulo is diving. Part of an archipelago (Tinharé), Morro de São Paulo has several stunning diving sites. For those who prefer shallow waters to see colorful corals and fish, either the Third or Fourth Beach is perfect. Ponta da Pedra Beach, near the Yacht Club, is also recommended.

In case you to want to go further, there are dive operators who offer boat trips. You can choose free diving or use tanks. All the necessary equipment can be rented on the island. If you are bringing equipment, companies can recharge your tanks. The best time for diving is from October to February (summer), when the water is clear.

Needless to say, despite the wonderful summer, it all depends on the winds. According to Taí, from "Itadomar Tours and Diving", you can expect visibility between 15 the 20m when the water is clear. He usually takes groups to a place called "Old Camboa" (50mins by boat towards the South) or Garapuá. For advanced divers with tanks, the destination is usually Itatiba or Itatimirim, with sites ranging from 15 to 25m deep. For certifications, the depth is around 5 to 7m in sites as forte bank (by the Fortress) or Pé de Moleque.

For more information contact: Dive Operators

YACHTISM/SAILING

Esportes Náuticos são, junto com a natureza privilegiada da Ilha, um dos principais atrativos para quem escolhe passar alguns dias em Morro de São Paulo.

A Vela figura com destaque entre as atividades náuticas disponíveis em Morro de São Paulo por permitir desfrutar da geografia da ilha de ângulos diferentes, em harmonia com a natureza e sem agredir o meio ambiente.

Dependendo da condição dos ventos é possível partir do povoado de Gamboa, passar pela 1a, 2a, 3a e 4a praia chegando ao povoado de Garapuá. Tudo isto deslizando sobre as águas, sem ruídos de motores, apenas com o barulho do mar e do vento, em barcos como : Tornado, A-Cat, Hobie 16, Hobie 14, Laser e Windsurf.

Segundo Horst Drechsler, do Clube da Vela, mesmo que a pessoa não tenha noções do esporte, poderá sair junto com a equipe de velejadores e, seguindo dicas, experimentar a sensação de sentir o vento e estar conduzindo o barco. Ou mesmo se aventurar sozinho em um Laser depois de breves instruções.

Para os que já tem prática, o Clube da Vela oferece passeios monitorados ou simplesmente a opção de alugar um barco e sair sozinho pela baía.

A época do ano com ventos mais fortes são os meses de inverno , período propício para velejadores mais radicais.

Para maiores informações : 75.3652 1361

http://www.tropic-sailing-brasil.com/

contato@hotelnatureza.com

SURF

Almost no one knows that on Morro there is one of the best surf areas in Bahia.

The best points are:

Pé de Moleque: On First Beach, the best waves on the island that come with a swell that reaches its greatest height from the East. Breaking from two to six feet over a coral reef.

Quebrancinha: On the left corner of First Beach. The waves break rapidly and sharply from the left, over a rocky, coral-littered bottom. Waves only break when the height over Pe de Moleque is greater than four feet. Wave heights reach between two and four feet.

Fourth Beach: There are various "secret points" on Fourth Beach that can only be surfed with an island local. Wave heights between two and four feet.

The best time of the year to surf is from June to September when swells come from the South.

What to bring: Boards from 6'2" to 6'6". There is only one local surf shop, so it's important to bring the following accessories with you: wax, fins, silvertape, etc. Also, bring a first-aid kit and sunblock, spf30, at a minimum.

Preserve marine life and guard your waste in proper receptacles; please don't throw garbage into the sea.

www.surfonline.com.br

www.easydrop.com

YOGA

Another fun option in Morro de São Paulo is to discover the yoga practice in natural peaceful surroundings.

Instructor Patricia Benavidez has lived in Morro de São Paulo for over 10 years and offers several programs to introduce you to this five thousand years old philosophy and help you uncover its secrets that make yoga one of the most growing physical activities in Western countries.

The classes can be:

Group Classes

Individual Classes

Workshop “Descobrindo o YOGA em Morro de São Paulo” (for beginners seeking a deeper understanding with the practice)

Contact: Patrícia Benavidez

Email: sudestada8@hotmail.com

Skype: sudestada8

In terms of restaurants, Morro is ecletic, like that of its diverse inhabitants from all over Brazil and the world.

See the list of restaurants here!

Typical Baiana cuisine offered in local family restaurants is basic, without excessive spicyness or (azeite de dendê)… in case you're wondering! Fish moqueca, polvo, shrimp "hushpuppies", lobster (seasonal), siri catado and others (iguarias) can be sampled in Quilo restaurants. In some kiosks frequented by locals, the more outgoing tourist might try a fatada, sarapatel, sururu soup or mocoto soup (we should describe what all the dishes are, or the ingredients).

Pizza is an easy option. Almost all pizzarias use firewood ovens. There are two in the main plaza, with tables strategically placed in view of the nightlife and its artisan fair. Pasta houses are abundant as well; perhaps as a result of so many Italians who adopted the island as home, or that Brazilians simply love a good plate of pasta.

Japanese have also arrived on the island and with them, a tasteful sushi or sashimi.

Aside from these options, you can also find vegetarian dishes, crepes and paella. Each summer season, the island offers a new culinary dish. Try it!

House for Sale /

Morro de Sao Paulo

• ricardovilanovak.blogspot.com

Info: Ricardo.

Tel: +55 ricardo.vilanova@hotmail.com.

e-mail: ricardovn@ig.com.br  

RESIDENCE VILAS DO DENDÊ

Gamboa Beach, bloks 250 m2 for sale in a simple residence without burocracy, 50% of total area to build. Close to the beach, green area, legal documentation with Patrimonio da Uniao, safe and rapid negotiation. Good price. Info: Anna. Tel: +55 75 9147 9096. e-mail: villagedodende@katraka.net 

ADMINISTRATIVE CONSULTANT

Consultoria Administrativa, Assessoria técnico-legal e comercial, Intermediação em ingles, italiano, frances e portugues para finalização de compra/venda seguras. Regularização e Legalização de propriedades localizadas nas Ilhas do Arquipelago de Tinhare

(Morro, Gamboa, Boipeba) perante os Orgaos da Secretaria do Patrimonio da Uniao. Legalizacao de estrangeiro no Brasil. Seriedade, competência e rapidez.

Info: Anna Maria Innocenzi.

Tel: +55 75 9147 9096.

e-mail: villagedodende@katraka.net