Nestled along the coast of Bahia, Brazil, Itacaré has a rich history shaped by indigenous traditions, colonial influences, and the rise of eco-tourism. Originally inhabited by the Tupiniquim people, the region was home to a thriving indigenous culture that lived in harmony with the Atlantic Forest and the ocean, relying on fishing, hunting, and agriculture. The name "Itacaré" itself comes from the Tupi language, meaning "stone house" or "beautiful stone", a reference to its rugged coastline.

With the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century, Itacaré became an important port for the sugarcane and later the cocoa industry, which brought wealth and development to the region. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, cocoa plantations (fazendas de cacau) flourished, making Bahia one of the world’s largest cocoa producers. However, a devastating fungal disease (Witches' Broom) in the late 1980s led to the decline of the cocoa economy, pushing Itacaré to reinvent itself.

The town’s natural beauty and untouched landscapes soon attracted surfers, backpackers, and eco-tourists, marking the beginning of its transformation into a sustainable tourism hotspot. Today, Itacaré is celebrated for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and Afro-Brazilian culture, offering visitors a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local traditions. From its indigenous roots to its modern eco-tourism movement, Itacaré remains a treasured destination where history and nature blend seamlessly.