Top Things To Do in Ilha Grande, Brazil: A Complete Guide
Planning a trip to the paradise island of Ilha Grande in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil? Discover the best things to do in Ilha Grande and more in this complete travel guide.
Located just two hours south of Rio de Janeiro there’s absolutely no reason not to visit the tropical island paradise of Ilha Grande, Brazil. This large island is covered in tropical lush jungle crisscrossed by hiking paths and both golden and white sand beaches with the clearest water of every shade of blue and green.
Ilha Grande might just be your place for a relaxing few days of traveling or an adventure destination you won’t forget in a hurry. There are few cars or motorbikes here, allowing you to really switch off, detox, and enjoy the sounds of nature.
Ilha Grande is also home to Lopes Mendes Beach, which has consistently been voted as one of the Top 5 Beaches in the World.
There’s enough to do on Ilha Grande to keep you busy for at least three days, so block out your schedule, grab a sarong and a caipirinha, and discover the secrets of this pristine island with this complete Ilha Grande things to do guide.
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Getting to Ilha Grande
Public Transportation
Whether you’re coming from Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo you’ll need to travel to Conceicao do Jacarei (closer to Rio) or Angra dos Reis (closer to Sao Paolo and Paraty). The best way to do this is by bus.
Boats depart from the main piers of these towns between the times of 8 am and 6 pm roughly. There are more services departing from Conceicao, every 30 mins and the ride takes only 20 minutes.
From Angra dos Reis, boats depart roughly every hour taking between 30 mins and 1.5 hrs depending on the boat.
Boats also depart from Mangaratiba and while it’s even closer to Rio de Janeiro, there is only one daily service departing at 8 am.
Upon arrival at each town, simply make your way down to the pier where all the boat company offices are located and enquire about the next service. If you are lucky someone might even be trying to sell you a ticket as you get off the bus.
Private Transfer
It’s definitely a lot easier getting to Ilha Grande via a private transfer where both bus or minivan and boat transport are organized for you. If you’re not someone who wants the hassle of working out Brazilian public transport then make sure to book one of these highly-rated transfers.
From Rio de Janeiro: Vila do Abraao Roundtrip Transfer
From Rio de Janeiro: Shuttle to/from Abraão on Ilha Grande
The Best Things to Do in Ilha Grande, Brazil
Hike to Lopez Mendes Beach
Consistently voted as one of the world’s top 5 most beautiful beaches Lopes Mendez is a vast, long paradise of fine, floury, white sand fringed by lush green jungle and palms and gentle breaking waves.
It’s a place you can spend the whole day, so pack a picnic or snacks- they don’t sell much on the beach itself apart from drinks, chips, and a sandwich that had seen better days.
Relax in the sun, walk or even go for a run down the beach- I assure you this is pure paradise and you’ll have to pinch yourself to convince yourself you’re not dreaming.
You can get to Lopes Mendes two ways. By hiking or by boat. Boat taxis depart from the main pier in Villa Abraão, the main town, and will take you to Praia Pousa. From there, you’ll have to continue on foot for the last 20 mins.
You can also hike there from Villa Abraão, and I recommend you do so, at least the one way as it’s a beautiful trek not to mention great exercise for the day. The trek will take you to stunning Praia las Palmas before reaching Praia Pousa and on to Lopes Mendes.
To find the hiking trail simply walk over the next beach from Villa Abrao to the east (Praia Julia) and you’ll see it as soon as you come to that beach.
Hike the Abraão Circuit
The Abraão circuit is a short hiking trail that starts out from the main town, Villa Abraão.
From the centre of town take the beachfront path towards the north and you’ll soon encounter a huge sign with all the trails mapped on it.
Visit the impressive colonial aqueduct, Preta Beach- one of the only black sand beaches on the island, the Lazareto ruins, or continue on to Feiticeira waterfall and beach.
Walked slowly you can visit all the places on the trail in only one day and is a great option if you’re looking for a bit more of an active day, but nothing too strenuous.
Visit Feiticeira Waterfall and Beach
While part of the Abraão Circuit this beautiful waterfall and beach of the same name can be reached on a lovely, easy hike from Villa Abraao in just half a day.
The easy, well-signposted trail leads you through the lush tropical jungle to Feiticeira waterfall, a gorgeous, powerful waterfall surrounded by rocks, plants, and dense trees.
Unfortunately, the waterfall and pools surrounding it are full of huge boulders and not great for swimming so make sure to continue further north to Feiticeira beach.
At Feiticeira beach you can relax in the golden sand, take a dip to cool off, and refuel with an açai bowl from the beach’s only snack stand.
Go on a Boat Tour
There are many beautiful beaches, coves, and spots on Ilha Grande that are only accessible by boat, and doing a boat tour allows you to see more of the island.
Choose between visiting some paradise islands around Ilha Grande, a half circuit around the island, or a full circuit. Beaches to look out for include Aventureiro and Meros. Don’t miss the spectacular Laguna Azul and Laguna Verde, and compare the astonishing color differences of the water.
Some of the best tours include:
From Abraão, Ilha Grande: Paradisiac Islands Full-Day Tour
Aventureiro Beach Full-Day Tour
Full-Day Tour Around the Island
READ MORE: Must- Read Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide
Relax on the Beach
You are in paradise after all so why not head to the beach with a great book, order an acai bowl or even a caipirinha, and enjoy the moment completely worry-free.
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling
Ilha Grande is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral reefs.
Many boat day trips will offer snorkeling gear so you’ll be able to do a bit of snorkeling as you explore various coves and beaches around the island.
For scuba diving, make your way to Elite Diver Center or Dive & Cia, the two diving centers in town to organize a dive during your stay on Ilha Grande. You can also rent snorkeling gear here too if you prefer to plan your own snorkeling excursion instead.
Take a Yoga or Meditation class
Ilha Grande is a popular destination for yoga and meditation retreats. There are several studios and classes available for visitors in Abraão and beyond. Many hostels and pousadas also organise yoga classes so make sure to ask at your hotel.
Spend the Day Beach Hopping
Fancy doing a bit of walking but nothing too strenuous? Heading out of Villa Abrao to the east you’ll find a few gorgeous golden sand beaches within easy reach of the main town, Praia Abraãozinho, and Praia do Morcego.
Take your pick and relax there for the day. These beaches are also the best options for watching the sunset close to Villa Abraao. Otherwise, you’ll have to catch a boat to the west or northern tip of the island.
For the ultimate beach hopping trip and a chance to see one of Ilha Grande’s best beaches then make sure not to miss this full-day boat tour.
Hike to Pico Do Papagaio for Sunrise
Pico do Papagaio is the island’s highest point and from which you can get some of the most jaw-dropping views of the island and surrounding area.
The trek is a medium/difficult one and does involve some scrambling at the very top over the rocky summit. While it can be done on your own during the day, it is a little difficult to navigate so the best way to do this hike is with a guide for sunrise.
It is without a doubt the best spot to see the sunrise and if you don’t mind getting up in the middle of the night to start the trek you’ll cherish this memory forever.
It’s very difficult to navigate the path by yourself in the dark so make sure to take a guide with you.
You can organize your private sunrise hike through Ilha Grand Hiking here.
Take a Stroll Through Town
We wouldn’t quite be covering all the things to do in Ilha Grande without mentioning the main town.
While not quite up to the same colonial standards as nearby Paraty, Ilha Grande does have a few lovely colonial buildings and the church on the main plaza is quite picturesque too.
There are many cute little streets, plazas, and the beachfront to explore not to mention the wide variety of cafes, stores, and restaurants too.
Take a Walk to Dos Rios
Dos Rios is Ilha Grande’s other larger settlement on the southern-eastern side. Walk there, along the only jungle road that links the villages together, and enjoy the sounds of the pristine jungle, the gorgeous views and don’t forget to look out for local wildlife that often crosses the path.
In Dos Rios, you can visit the old, colonial prison, have lunch and relax on the beach.
Watch the Sunset on Abraão Beach
While in Brazil trying a caipirinha is a must at least once and this is the perfect place to do it. Grab one at one of the many beachside restaurants or bars, take a seat at a table on the sand, and watch the sun go down behind you casting that ethereal, low, orange light all over the bay.
Where to Stay in Ilha Grande
Accommodation in Ilha Grande is budget-friendly and affordable. The main form of accommodation is local pousadas or guesthouses that include breakfast in your stay too. 5-star resorts and large, destination hotels don’t exist here.
Pousada Tagomago– Tucked away in the jungle above Abraão is this lovely inn. It has a wonderful garden, delicious breakfast, and simple but cozy rooms. The views from here are amazing too. Check rates and availability here.
Casa da Ilha Inn, Ilha Grande– A beautiful rustic, wooden inn located nearby right on the beach, this beautiful jungle property offers spectacular views over the bay, hammocks on every corner and lovely terraces with hammocks to relax and take in the surroundings. Stay here and you’ll never want to leave. Check rates and availability here.
Asalem – located in the jungle but still steps from the beach, this beautifully designed and decorated property really is heaven on earth. Rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable and communal areas include a sitting area, a terrace with decks suitable for yoga as well as beautiful gardens all around the property.
It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy this beautiful island. Access here is only by boat. Check rates and availability here.
Where to Eat in Ilha Grande, Brazil
Ilha Grande is known for its seafood and local fish dishes. There is also plenty of fruit and vegetable to be had too, so healthy eating in Ilha Grande, isn’t difficult. Here are some of the best spots to eat in Villa Abraão.
Ateliê Cafe This cafe/restaurant, located on the beach right by the old pier was definitely my favorite option on Ilha Grande. They have many plant-based options including, salads, homemade hummus, vegan tapiocas, hot and cold sandwiches, vegan burgers and fresh juices and coffee.
All the food I tried was fresh, delicious and healthy- a must-visit when on Ilha Grande.
Las Sorrentinas– A great Italian-inspired restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and great service. Their menu is pretty small but you can guarantee that all dishes here are excellent.
Restaurante Dom Mario – Fantastic spot for local dishes with tropical flavors.
Where to Move
Hike – With so many different hiking trails of all sizes and difficulties, hiking is one of the best forms of exercise on Ilha Grande.
Not only is hiking great for your body, but it also allows you to get up close and personal with the island, its beautiful beaches, and viewpoints. All the hiking paths are also brilliant for trail running if you fancy something more challenging.
Run along the beachfront While on the short side Villa Abraão’s beachfront is a great place for a run with a gorgeous view to match.
You can also extend your run by running on the beach towards the eastern side of town but you will have to run on sand. The best time for a run on the beachfront is early in the morning before 8 am before the paths get full of tourists making their way to and from the main pier.
Top Tips for Visiting Ilha Grande
↠ Plan ahead: Ilha Grande is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak season. Make sure to book your accommodations and transportation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle. Accommodation is limited so make sure to book ahead. I always use booking.com as my go-to for this.
↠Bring cash: While some places on the island accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand. There are very few ATMs on the island, and they can be unreliable, so make sure to have enough cash for your entire stay.
↠ Be prepared for hiking: A lot of the things to do in Ilha Grande involve hiking. If you plan on hiking, make sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and offline maps. Some of the trails can be challenging, so it’s important to be prepared.
↠Pack for Rain: Ilha Grande is a very rainy place- especially in summer. Make sure to pack for a hot, tropical climate and that includes a good rain jacket and footwear or rain. Roads here to tend to flood a bit.
Please leave your comments or questions about these things to do in Ilha Grande Guide below. I’d love to hear from you.
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