Set on the front line of Praia do Forte's beach, Pousada Porto da Lua holds a rare distinction along this Bahian coastline: it is the only pousada built directly on the sand, in the heart of the reef zone. Designed by architect Wilson Reis Netto, a disciple of Oscar Niemeyer and heir to Le Corbusier's legacy, it combines tropical architecture in stone and clay tiles with a pedestrian setting, five minutes from the village centre and less than 100 metres from the TAMAR Project, a sanctuary for sea turtles.

Why stay here

Three elements set this property apart. First, its architecture: Wilson Reis Netto designed a building open to the ocean, with massive columns, wide verandas equipped with hammocks, and orientation calculated for moonrise views over the reefs. Second, its position in the reef zone, where tides rhythm the day every six hours: at low tide, natural pools form at the foot of the terraces; at high tide, waves lap against their edges. Third, the immediate proximity to the TAMAR Project and the pedestrian village, allowing everything to be done on foot.

Atmosphere and architecture

The property was fully renovated in 2009 without abandoning its original materials: stone walls, clay tile roofs, local wood. The verandas and their hammocks extend the common areas toward the ocean, and tropical vegetation—coconut palms and coastal shrubs—frame the setting. The tone is that of a carefully maintained Brazilian pousada rather than an international hotel: you come here for reading on the veranda, the sound of waves, and the rhythm of the tides, not for standardized décor.

The rooms

The pousada has 27 rooms, 24 of which offer sea and reef views. They are distributed between ground-floor apartments, first-floor, mezzanine, and side rooms. Each room features a balcony with hammock, king-size bed, reversible air conditioning or fan, and bathroom with solar-heated hot water. Amenities include satellite television, minibar, safe, telephone, and desk.

Several suites are highlighted:

• Royal Suite: the former office of architect Wilson Reis Netto, panoramic view over sea and reefs.
• Lua Suite: two balconies and panoramic ocean view.
• Yemanja Suite: two sleeping areas, view over sea and palms.
• Honeymoon Suite: large balcony facing the sea.

Dining and services

Two restaurants share the offering: one with feet in the sand, the other inside the building behind wide glass doors opening onto the sea. The menu blends Bahian, Italian and French cuisine, with an emphasis on fish and seafood. A buffet breakfast is included (fruits, homemade breads, charcuterie, pastries). A beach bar and lounge round out the evening options.

Service amenities include: Wi-Fi throughout the property, TV lounge, library, games room (billiards, table football), two pools (adult and children), VIP meeting room for up to 30 people, and secure covered parking limited to 19 spaces (additional vehicles parked in shared rotation outside). The team speaks Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

Location

Praia do Forte lies approximately 65 km north of Salvador, on the Linha Verde—expect about one hour's drive from the international airport. The village is pedestrian: access to the pousada is on foot from the entrance gateway, following the main street down to the seafront. The coastline, 12 km long, is sometimes nicknamed the "Polynesia of Brasil" for its coconut groves and natural pools.

When to visit

The pousada is enjoyable year-round thanks to Bahia's tropical climate, but two windows deserve attention. From July to October, the austral winter is whale-watching season for humpback whales offshore. Year-round, the rhythm of tides (every six hours) conditions swimming: it is at low tide that natural pools form in the reefs, ideal for snorkeling. Check tide times before arriving to plan your beach sessions.

What to see nearby

The TAMAR Project, less than 100 metres away, is the village's must-see. Beyond, Bahia's coast lends itself to several extensions: snorkeling trips on the reefs, horseback rides, offshore fishing, or an excursion to Salvador and its historic centre. To extend your stay, explore our other properties in Brasil such as Hotel Villa Bahia in Salvador, Pousada do Principe, or Amazon Turtle Lodge for an Amazonian contrast.

Frequently asked questions

Plan your stay

Pousada Porto da Lua naturally integrates into an itinerary across Brazil's Northeast, combining Salvador, Praia do Forte, and the coconut coast. To build your tailor-made journey, explore our trips to Brasil.