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TrancosoGuide
Recife de Fora Marine Park Foto: Julian Choquette · CC BY 3.0

Natural pools

Recife de Fora Marine Park

Offshore reefs off Porto Seguro, visited by boat at low tide to float and watch fish, with protection rules.

Updated on October 5, 2026 ✓ Information checked on October 5, 2026

Type
Natural pools
Area
Surroundings and Discovery Coast
Depends on the tide
Yes

Recife de Fora (literally the “outer reef”) is a group of offshore reefs off Porto Seguro, protected as a municipal marine park. The trip is one of the town’s best known: at low tide, boats take visitors out to the reefs to float with a mask and observe fish and coral, as Wikivoyage describes.

Low tide is a must

The trip depends on low tide. That’s why departure times change and some dates have no trips at all. Before booking, check the Brazilian Navy’s tide table and confirm with the operator. The logic is the same as for Espelho Beach.

How it works

  1. Boat departure from Porto Seguro.
  2. A stop at the reefs during low tide, with time to float.
  3. Return before the tide rises.

Equipment such as masks and life vests is usually provided by operators; check what’s included. This guide does not recommend specific companies. The business directory lists only businesses with a verifiable public source.

Protection rules

  • Don’t step on the coral or stand on it.
  • Don’t feed the fish.
  • Don’t take shells, coral or animals.
  • Follow the guides’ instructions.

Rules, fees and visitor limits are set by Porto Seguro City Hall. Check the current conditions before you go.

Leaving from Trancoso

You need to reach Porto Seguro well before the boat departs: by road to Arraial and the ferry, or around overland. See Porto Seguro ferry. Sea lovers will find more options in snorkeling in Trancoso and the region.

Practical tips

  • The trip only runs at low tide: confirm the date with the operator before booking.
  • Ask whether the park's visitor fee is included in the tour price.
  • Don't step on the coral, don't feed the fish and don't take anything from the reef.
  • Wear a life vest if you're not a strong swimmer and follow the crew's instructions.

Frequently asked questions

What is Recife de Fora?

It is a group of offshore reefs off Porto Seguro, protected as a municipal marine park. At low tide, boats take visitors out to float and observe marine life.

When can I visit Recife de Fora?

Only at low tide, as Wikivoyage notes. Boat dates and times change every month with the tide.

Can I go from Trancoso?

Yes, but you need to get to Porto Seguro in good time, by car or on the ferry from Arraial d'Ajuda. Many visitors fit the trip into a day in Porto Seguro.

How much does it cost?

This guide does not publish prices without an official source. The boat price and any park fee vary; check with the operator and with Porto Seguro City Hall.

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