Nearest beach in walking distance. Has lots of restaurants during the day on the water with plenty of tables and shade. Most crowed beach.
A 45 minute walk from Arraial d'Ajuda is a less crowded beach, Lagoa Azul. Few small beaches along the stroll. Has a restaurant and a quicksand natural mud/clay bath by the water. It's really nice. A trail up the surrounding red cliffs. Great spot. Water is calm to wash off in.
Famous small Historical Town and Beaches. During the day everyone is at the beach. Recommended is Nativos Beach. Some places and shops are open during the day in square. The town at night is when its open. Restaurants operated by the local homes and the square comes alive. Travel options are taxi or bus. Taxi is a 35 minute drive. $35. Bus will take an hour and a half. $7.
Caraiva is the nicest spot but the farthest too. Of course. It's between the beach and the river. Different waters meets to create a great mixture. Depends on how you look at it the travel can be fun. After the taxi/bus you can taxi by ATV to a more remote spot.
Mucuge Street is there main street. Full of shopping, bars, restaurants, hotels and hostels. Street opens later in the day. Few shops are open during the day.