The Rio Barra Seca is a 118-kilometer river in the northeastern region of Espírito Santo, Brazil. It originates in the Pontões Capixabas highlands at an elevation of 238 meters, on the border between the municipalities of São Gabriel da Palha and Nova Venécia, and flows to the Atlantic Ocean between São Mateus and Linhares. Along its course it passes through or borders the municipalities of Vila Valério, Sooretama, and Jaguaré, and crosses the ES-137 and BR-101 highways. The river's drainage basin covers approximately 2,216 square kilometers.

The lower reaches of the river border the Reserva Biológica de Sooretama, though the basin as a whole has experienced considerable human modification, particularly in the lower section. Approximately 50 kilometers upstream from the mouth there is a deactivated hydroelectric dam, which paddlers should be aware of when planning routes in that stretch. The river meets the Atlantic through a coastal area characterized by beaches.

In the municipality of Jaguaré, the river is a recognized recreational destination. The annual Descida Ecológica do Rio Barra Seca is an organized paddle descent held in the community of Barra Seca de Ponte Velha, drawing participants who bring their own watercraft — including kayaks and inflatable boats — to descend the river together. The event is supported by the Environmental Police and the Fire Department. The event typically takes place on a Sunday in April, with participants concentrating near the Prefeitura de Jaguaré before traveling to the Zequinha Calvi property, with a mid-route stop at the Paulo Calvi property and a finish approximately 100 meters past the Ponte Velha bridge. The descent runs from approximately 07:30 to noon. The event is framed around ecotourism, adventure tourism, and environmental awareness, and is open to families and recreational paddlers.

The river also attracts fishing and general outdoor recreation. Entry to the river as a natural attraction is free and accessible for both visitors and local residents.