Ilha Grande is located in the region known as Costa Verde, in the municipality of Angra dos Reis, state of Rio de Janeiro. It is an island covered by tropical forest (Mata Atlântica) and that has a natural vocation for ecotourism, starting with the fact that the only means of transportation on the island are on foot, by bicycle, or by boat (private cars are prohibited). Within its territory is the Ilha Grande State Park, the third-largest island park in Brazil, designated as a State Heritage Site in 1987 and declared a Biosphere Reserve of the Mata Atlântica in 1992 by UNESCO. In 2019, it was also recognized by UNESCO, together with the city of Paraty, as a World Heritage Site for its natural and historical significance. We recommend staying at least three full days to enjoy what Ilha Grande has to offer.
Explore
MAIN ACTIVITIES
BOAT TOURS
Taking at least one boat tour is almost mandatory to get to know Ilha Grande more and better
Hiking
The island has points over 1000 meters in altitude! There are at least 4 interesting routes to explore. Click on the names of the locations or follow the page below for more information about each route:
Lopes Mendes Beach
It is a paradisiacal beach with white, soft sands, once considered one of the 10 most beautiful beaches on the planet.
- Walking time from the inn to Lopes Mendes: approximately 2.5 hours.
- Boat (taxi boat) travel time to Praia do Pouso: 20 minutes, plus a 25-minute walk to Lopes Mendes.
- Schooner travel time to Praia de Mangues: 40 minutes, plus a 30-minute walk to Lopes Mendes.
Panoramic Views of Lopes Mendes Beach
Abraãozinho Beach
Located in a sheltered cove, Abraãozinho is a paradise with calm and crystal-clear waters. The walk from Vila do Abraão is an attraction in itself, with stretches of tropical vegetation and going through four other beaches.
- Walking time (one way): approximately 40 minutes.
- Boat (taxi boat) travel time: approximately 10 minutes.
Dois Rios Beach
A magical place that brings together nature and the history of Ilha Grande. The name “Dois Rios” comes from the presence of a river on each side of the beach. There you will find the ruins of the Cândido Mendes Penal Institute, a place full of mythical stories, such as the emergence of the Comando Vermelho faction (one of the biggest in Brazil), the escape of the criminal “Escadinha” by helicopter, and others that have marked the memories of generations.
You can have lunch at very simple restaurants serving local food.
- Walking time (one way): approximately 2.5 hours.
Dois Rios Beach | Ruins of the Penal Institute ↑ / Aerial View of Dois Rios Beach →
Pico Do Papagaio
This is the hike to the highest point on the island, 959 meters above sea level. It involves a lot of climbing through the forest, but the view is rewarding and unique! It is strongly recommended to hire a local guide, as it is easy to get lost.
- Walking time (one way): approximately 3 hours.
Diving
Those who know the underwater world are aware of its wonders. In Abraão, there are 2 certified agencies offering scuba diving tours, operating at various diving spots and islands (such as the beautiful Jorge Grego). A great way to get up close to the rich marine biome of Ilha Grande.
Beaches
It is no exaggeration to say that there are more than 100 beaches on Ilha Grande. They are as numerous as they are beautiful and can be accessed by trails and/or by boat, with tours available through specialized agencies on the island or with Naturalia Tour. Highlights include the aforementioned Lopes Mendes beach, Dois Rios, Aventureiro, Caxadaço, and Parnaioca. From the inn, there are at least 5 beaches within a 30-minute walk. Return to the Hiking section to check out some of these routes.
Aventureiro Beach ↑
Boat Tours ↑
Boat Tours
Taking at least one boat tour is almost mandatory to get to know Ilha Grande more and better. The inn has its own boat and we offer an exclusive itinerary for our guests. Learn more here: Naturalia Tour
There are also shared tours offered by various specialized agencies in Vila do Abraão. Check with our reception for more information.
Kayaking and SUP
It is very easy to rent a kayak or stand-up paddle in Abraão. On the beach right below the inn, you will find rental points. The waters of the bay are generally calm and allow for good rides. In less than 20 minutes of paddling, you can reach Crena beach, for example, where you can stop for a swim and also eat at the local restaurant.
surf
Ilha Grande is also known for its waves, which attract many surfers. The most interesting spots are Santo Antônio and Lopes Mendes (again!), which are close to each other. For those who want to venture, surfboards can be rented and surf lessons are available at Lopes Mendes.
Vila do Abraão
Take advantage of the proximity to the “heart” of Ilha Grande, from where almost all tourist itineraries depart and where the largest number of shops and restaurants on the island are concentrated, to take a day or night walk and, of course, savor the local cuisine.
Highlights include caiçara (traditional typical cuisine) dishes based on fish and seafood, such as moqueca, octopus vinaigrette, and fish with bananas.
In Abraão, there are bars and restaurants for all tastes and budgets, some less than five minutes from the inn. Stop by the reception and we will recommend the best options according to your preferences.
It is important to mention that there are no banks or ATMs on the island, so it is necessary to bring cash from the mainland. There is a 24-hour medical service center on Getúlio Vargas Street, in the center of the village.
