The Ponte José Sarney is a long causeway bridge connecting the island of São Luís to the mainland, named for the Maranhão-born former president of Brazil who dominated the state's politics for decades. The bridge itself is not especially remarkable, but walking or cycling part of its length gives you a panoramic view of the bay, the mangroves, and the industrial port of Itaqui on the far shore.
The view from the bridge at sunset, when the light turns everything orange and the fishing boats move in from the sea, is one of the better photographic opportunities in the city. The bridge is accessible by taxi or bus from the centre.