Praia do Forte

Praia do Forte was first settled in 1549 by Garcia D'Avila, a clerk for the Portuguese crown. For reasons lost in the mists of history, Garcia D'Avila had acquired a fortune and became a landowner. With foresight he introduced cattle ranching and coconut-palm cultivation in the area. To protect the coast, a medieval-style castle was built that served as a fort—hence the town's name, which means "Fortress Beach." All that remains from the castle is just the outer walls, and there isn't too much to see, but it now has a helpful visitor center. Today the area's biggest attraction is the headquarters of a sea-turtle preservation center called Projeto Tamar. Instead of earning their living by killing turtles for meat, eggs, and shells, local fishermen are now paid to protect them. Jobs have also been provided by the bars, restaurants, pousadas, and shops that now line the three brick-paved streets. Almost everything in town is on the main street, Alameda do Sol.