Ilhéus

Ilhéus is a municipality in the state of Bahia, Brazil. It is located on the Atlantic coast of Brazil, in the northeastern region of the country. The city is situated at the mouth of the Cachoeira River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Ilhéus is known for its historical significance, its beaches, and its role in the cocoa production of Brazil.

Historically, Ilhéus was a major center for cocoa cultivation in the early 20th century. This era is famously depicted in the novels of Jorge Amado, particularly "Gabriela, Cravo e Canela" and "Terras do Sem-Fim," which brought international attention to the region and its cocoa barons. The city's architecture still reflects this prosperous past, with many well-preserved colonial-era buildings.

The economy of Ilhéus has diversified over time. While cocoa remains important, tourism has become a significant sector. The city boasts numerous beautiful beaches, such as Praia do Sul and Praia dos Milionários, attracting visitors for their natural beauty and opportunities for leisure activities like surfing and swimming. The Serra de Conduru State Park, located nearby, offers ecotourism opportunities with its Atlantic Forest biodiversity. The city also has a port that facilitates trade and transport. Ilhéus serves as a regional hub for commerce and services in southern Bahia.