After a 7-hour scenic drive from Caraíva, we arrived in Itacaré, a coastal town known for its rich Afro-Brazilian heritage, stunning beaches, and proximity to the Atlantic Rainforest. Itacaré has grown from a sleepy fishing village into a vibrant destination that attracts surfers, hikers, and intrepid travelers, yet it retains a laid-back charm that makes visitors feel immediately welcome. The area’s history is deeply connected to cocoa farming, which adds an interesting layer to the cultural experience.
I immediately felt comfortable staying here. Itacaré is not only traveler-friendly but also offers a balance between authentic local life and modern amenities. Walking through Pituba Street, the town’s lively hub lined with artisan shops and cafes, we enjoyed mingling with locals and exploring markets featuring handmade crafts. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Itacaré offers both with ease, which sets the perfect tone for our stay at Barracuda Hotel & Villas.
First Impressions of Barracuda Hotel & Villas
Barracuda Hotel seamlessly merges modern design with nature, nestled between Itacaré’s beautiful beaches and the surrounding rainforest. The rooms are thoughtfully designed, with influences from Brazilian modernism and Scandinavian minimalism, creating an atmosphere that feels both refined and grounded. Natural materials such as wood and stone, paired with neutral tones, enhance the tranquil vibe of the space.
We stayed in two hotel suites (spoiler alert: we extended our stay!), with one featuring a private balcony overlooking the ocean and the other one with jungle and sea views. The rooms were furnished with a king-sized bed, flat-screen TV, minibar, and an open rain shower, offering comfort and style. I loved the small details—luxurious bath robes and thick terry bath towels- making the stay feel even more special. There’s a feeling of openness throughout the property, with common areas flowing into the outdoors, ideal for unwinding and soaking in the tropical ambiance.
While Barracuda also offers private villas with infinity pools and expansive views (more about their private villas available to rent, linked here), we found that the rooms provided just the right balance of privacy and access to the hotel’s communal spaces.
Rooms at Barracuda Hotel: Modern Comfort Meets Tropical Tranquility
The rooms at Barracuda Hotel are designed with a thoughtful balance of modern aesthetics and natural elements, bringing guests a peaceful space to unwind. Inspired by Brazilian modernist design with touches of Scandinavian minimalism, each room incorporates natural materials like wood, stone, and soft textiles that harmonize with Itacaré’s lush surroundings.
Rooms range from Standard Double and Twin options to more spacious Deluxe and Superior rooms, each equipped with air conditioning, a minibar, flat-screen TV, and private balcony. The Deluxe rooms offer a bit more space and feature garden or sea views, allowing guests to enjoy Bahia’s natural beauty right from their room. The interiors include comfortable king-sized beds, walk-in showers, and curated décor that adds an elevated touch without distracting from the natural beauty outside.
Guests can also enjoy in-room amenities such as coffee makers, high-quality linens, and eco-friendly toiletries, ensuring both comfort and sustainability. The calm, earthy tones and large windows create a seamless transition from indoor spaces to the tropical outdoors, making every room feel like a private retreat nestled within the rainforest.
Gastronomic Delights: Dining at Barracuda
One of the highlights of our stay was the gastronomic dining experience. Meals at Barracuda are locally inspired, using fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms and fishermen. Breakfast was a spread of tropical fruits, fresh juices, artisanal bread, and locally made jams — along with a la carte menu with hot plates such as eggs, vegan pancakes, and coconut yogurt parfaits. Each morning felt like a feast, made even better by the ocean breeze and coastal views from the open-deck restaurant.
Dinner was a more immersive experience. The menu offers seasonal dishes featuring seafood specialties, such as a delicious grilled octopus dish and a Bahian-style moqueca. There’s also a focus on vegan and vegetarian options, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and accommodating all dietary preferences.
The rooftop bar became one of our favorite spots in the evening. Enjoying a cocktail at sunset, we watched the sky transition into night as the stars appeared over the coast—a peaceful moment that captured the essence of our time here.
Exploring Itacaré: Surf, Trek, and Culture
Our days at Barracuda were filled with adventures tailored to Itacaré’s unique landscape. The hotel staff were incredibly helpful in organizing activities and providing local tips to enhance our experience.
• Surfing at Praia da Tiririca: Known for its consistent waves, this beach was perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. The surf lessons were well-organized, and the instructors will make you feel at ease as you hit the waves.
• Trekking to Hidden Waterfalls: One of the best experiences was a guided trek through the rainforest to a secluded waterfall. It was a refreshing break from the coastal heat.
• Exploring Pituba Street: In the afternoons, we wandered along Pituba Street, browsing shops filled with local crafts, jewelry, and artwork. We also enjoyed sitting at a small cafe, people-watching, and chatting with locals over cups of Brazilian coffee.
For those seeking a more relaxed pace, kayaking along the Contas River and fishing excursions are also available, offering quieter ways to explore the area.
A Hotel Experience Rooted in Sustainability and Community
What stood out most about Barracuda Hotel & Villas was their commitment to sustainability and meaningful travel. The hotel avoids single-use plastics, sources its produce from local farms, and employs locals trained in hospitality and sustainable tourism practices. It felt good to know that our stay supported the community and environment in a tangible way.
The hotel’s ambiance encourages slow, intentional travel—whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast, lounging by the pool, or engaging with the local culture, everything feels thoughtfully designed to promote connection and relaxation.
One of the most memorable experiences of our stay was our visit to Mr. Osvaldo’s Cocoa Farm. Tucked into the lush landscapes just outside Itacaré, the farm provided an authentic glimpse into Bahia’s deep-rooted cocoa culture. As we arrived, we were warmly greeted by Mr. Osvaldo himself, a true local expert who shared stories about the history and significance of cocoa in the region. Our visit to Mr. Osvaldo’s Cocoa Farm offered a fascinating look into Bahia’s cocoa heritage. Guided by Mr. Osvaldo himself, we walked through the cacao groves and learned about each stage of the cocoa-making process—from harvesting and fermenting the beans to drying them in the tropical sun. The experience concluded with a tasting of locally crafted chocolate, where we were able to savor the distinct flavors of Bahia. It was an immersive introduction to the region’s cocoa culture and a meaningful way to connect with Bahia’s artisanal traditions.
The Private Villas at Barracuda: A Sanctuary for Groups and Families
Barracuda’s private villas offer a distinctive stay for those looking for a more intimate, spacious experience. Tucked away in the lush surroundings of Itacaré’s Atlantic Forest, these villas are designed for families, large groups, and friends celebrating special occasions. Each villa is an architectural blend of Brazilian modernism and Scandinavian minimalism, with an emphasis on natural materials that seamlessly integrate with the landscape.
Each villa offers a unique view—some sweeping views of Itacaré’s coastline from a private infinity pool to villas that feel as if they have been erected in the rainforest for decades. The open-concept kitchen, large dining area, and spacious terraces make it ideal for celebrations or long family dinners. Each villa allows guests to enjoy privacy while gathering in communal areas designed for relaxation and entertainment.
Each villa stay includes a personal chef who prepares meals tailored to guests’ preferences, featuring local ingredients like fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and Bahian delicacies. These thoughtfully designed villas provide an elevated experience that combines comfort, privacy, and a unique sense of place within Bahia’s natural beauty. For those interested in more details on villa accommodations, experiences, and amenities, click the link below.
Why Barracuda Hotel & Villas Feels Like a Home Away from Home
Our stay at Barracuda Hotel & Villas was an experience we won’t forget. From the beautifully designed spaces to the curated local experiences, everything felt personal and well thought-out. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a gathering with friends, Barracuda offers the perfect setting to create lasting memories.
If you’re traveling to Itacaré, I highly recommend staying here—not just for the comfort and elevated hospitality but also for the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Bahia. If you’re curious about the private villas and their amenities, read more here.
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