Ilha Grande, Brazil
Welcome to Ilha Grande, a pristine, car-free paradise off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. This protected island is a favorite stop for cruise lines like MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises for good reason.
Unlike bustling city ports, Ilha Grande offers an escape into nature, where lush Atlantic rainforest meets over 100 stunning beaches. Passengers arrive by tender into a world where the main attractions are idyllic lagoons, scenic hiking trails, and the simple pleasure of relaxing on world-class sands.
One of the most famous destinations is Lopes Mendes Beach (Praia Lopes Mendes), often voted one of Brazil's most beautiful beaches. Reaching it typically involves a 30-minute boat ride from the main village followed by a 20-minute hike through the forest, making the journey part of the adventure.
A must-do for many visitors is a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul). This natural pool of crystal-clear water is teeming with colorful fish, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming directly from your boat.
Schooner tours often include stops at various beaches, such as the lovely Red Beach (Praia Vermelha), known for its calm waters and unique sand color. These excursions provide a fantastic way to see the island's diverse coastline within a single day.
Last updated on March 1, 2026
While Ilha Grande itself is the main attraction, boat tours often explore the surrounding archipelago. A popular nearby spot is Long Island (Ilha Comprida), which is famous for its floating restaurant and excellent snorkeling opportunities. It's a short boat ride away, typically included in island-hopping itineraries.
The mainland city of Angra Dos Reis is the gateway to the island, though it's not typically a destination for day-trippers from Ilha Grande. Instead, visitors explore other nearby islands like Ilha da Gipóia, home to the famous Praia do Dentista (Dentist's Beach), which is known for its fine white sand and vibrant boating scene.
Last updated on March 1, 2026
Cruise ships do not dock at a pier in Ilha Grande; they anchor offshore in the Abraão Bay. Passengers are then brought to the island via the ship's tender boats.
The tenders arrive at the main pier in the heart of Vila do Abraão, the island's primary settlement. This places you directly in the center of all activity. There is no need for shuttles or taxis, as the village is small, charming, and easily explored on foot. Restaurants, tour operators, and small shops are all just steps from where you disembark.
Last updated on March 1, 2026
The official currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). While some larger establishments in Vila do Abraão might accept credit cards, many local tour operators, smaller restaurants, and shops operate on a cash-only basis.
US Dollars and Euros are not widely accepted, so it is highly recommended to have local currency. ATMs are available in the village, but they can be unreliable or run out of cash. It's safest to exchange money on your ship or bring some Reais with you from a mainland port.
Last updated on March 1, 2026
Ilha Grande is considered very safe for tourists, with a relaxed atmosphere and significantly lower crime rates than mainland Brazilian cities. It is generally safe to explore the main village of Vila do Abraão and nearby beaches independently.
When hiking on the island's numerous trails, it is advisable to stick to well-marked paths, bring water, and let someone know your route. For boat trips, always use licensed and reputable operators. As with any travel, exercise common sense and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Last updated on March 1, 2026
Ilha Grande has a tropical climate, meaning it is warm and humid throughout the year. The main cruise season (December to March) coincides with the Brazilian summer, which is the hottest and wettest time of year.
Expect daily temperatures to range from 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C). Frequent afternoon rain showers are common, but they are often brief and followed by sunshine. Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, a hat, strong sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket to be prepared for the conditions.
Last updated on March 1, 2026
There are no cars or public roads on Ilha Grande, which is a key part of its charm. All transportation within the main village of Vila do Abraão is done on foot.
To explore the island's many remote beaches and attractions, boats are the only option. From the main pier, you can hire private speedboat rentals for customized tours or join a group on a larger schooner tour. These are the primary ways to reach must-see spots like Lopes Mendes Beach (Praia Lopes Mendes) and the Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul). There are no taxis, buses, or ride-sharing services available.
Last updated on March 1, 2026
Shopping in Ilha Grande is a low-key affair centered in the sandy streets of Vila do Abraão. You won't find luxury brands or large stores here. Instead, the focus is on small boutiques and craft stalls.
Look for locally made souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, colorful canga sarongs, swimwear, and art depicting the island's scenery. Havaianas flip-flops are, of course, a popular and practical purchase. Prices in most shops are fixed, but you may have some room for negotiation with street vendors. There are no duty-free shopping facilities on the island.
Last updated on March 1, 2026
Explore the lush beauty of Angra dos Reis aboard our private boat on the "Paradisiac Islands" tour. You will discover stunning landscapes, dive into crystal clear waters, and learn about the region's rich history and culture. This unforgettable experience combines adventure and relaxation with nature. It is the perfect way to create memories in one of Brazil’s most charming destinations.
Come and explore the preserved beauty of Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande. It is easy to lose yourself among the paradisiacal beaches and transparent waters that surround the island. Spanning 193 square kilometers, this is an excursion into pure, preserved nature.
Embark on a paradisiacal itinerary, starting at the natural aquarium of the Botinas Islands for swimming and snorkeling with fish. The tour continues to one of Angra's most beautiful beaches, Jurubaíba, also known as Praia do Dentista. Enjoy a lunch stop at Praia do Vitorino for local seafood before visiting Ponta da Piedade to see its historic church.
Experience an incredible speedboat tour visiting the coolest spots in Ilha Grande bay. Walk the white sands of Cataguases Islands, swim with fish in Lagoa Azul, and be enchanted by the waters of Praia da Grumixama. You will also visit the historic Freguesia de Sant'Anna, take an ecological walk on Araçá Beach, and have an opportunity to try local cuisine on Japariz beach.
Discover Ilha Grande, a unique tourist destination focused on nature and preservation. The island offers a wide range of activities, inns, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. Come and meet this destination that you will fall in love with.
Departing from Vila do Abraão, explore Ilha Grande's fascinating history and natural beauty on a walking tour. Journey through lush forests to visit beautiful beaches and take a refreshing dip in a natural pool. You will learn about the island's 3000-year history, from its first inhabitants to its important role in Brazil.
This hike is ideal for nature lovers, offering the opportunity for a reinvigorating waterfall shower. You will snorkel in the calm waters of Enseada das Estrelas and sunbathe on the pristine Camiranga and Pereque Beaches. Enseada das Estrelas is also well known for its peaceful beaches and traditional local cuisine.
Choose a service that promises the best tour experience this paradise can offer. The guides know all the wonders of the area and will provide an exceptional excursion. They will also advise you on all the possible activities to do during your visit.
Take the worry out of your return with this economic shared transport from Ilha Grande to Rio de Janeiro airports or hotels. The journey includes a sea crossing on a modern and safe speedboat, followed by road transport in new, satellite-monitored vans or minibuses. This safe and comfortable trip is supported by the largest company in the region, featuring experienced drivers and permanent trilingual support.
Board a schooner in Angra dos Reis for a ride to the natural beauty of Ilha Grande. Once elected one of the 7 Wonders of Rio, the island boasts more than 100 beaches with enchanting blue-green waters. This unforgettable experience includes snorkeling in the natural aquarium of Lagoa Azul and walking on pristine white sand beaches.
Enjoy an amazing and unforgettable snorkeling experience in the natural aquarium of the Blue Lagoon. Discover the vibrant marine life that thrives in the crystal-clear waters. Afterwards, take a pleasant walk along the beautiful white sand beaches.
Discover the paradise of Angra dos Reis on a schooner departing from Santa Luzia station. The tour begins at the Blue Lagoon, a natural aquarium ideal for observing rich marine fauna while snorkeling. Your journey continues to the peaceful Praia da Araça and the Botinas Islands, another prime snorkeling spot, before a final stop for lunch at Praia das Flechas.
Book the official transfer from Ilha Grande, recognized as the fastest and most secure on the island. This service is the best-rated in its category on both TripAdvisor and Google. Travel with confidence, knowing the service has a record of zero accidents.
Discover Lopes Mendes, recognized by magazines as one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. Board a schooner to Pouso Beach, then take a short 5-minute walk to this wild and exotic paradise. Here you can relax on nearly 3 kilometers of sand, swim in the blue sea, or surf the good waves.
Join a 5-hour schooner tour to visit three beautiful locations on Ilha Grande with your guide. You will stop at Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), Freguesia de Santana, and Japariz. Each stop lasts 40-50 minutes, providing ample time to swim, dive, or snorkel in the stunning scenery.
Explore the northern coast of Ilha Grande on this 6-hour shared speedboat tour departing from Vila do Abraão port. The journey includes stops at the Blue Lagoon, Green Lagoon, and Saco do Céu. Enjoy a day of relaxing and snorkeling, as a guide and all necessary equipment are included.
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Overall Ilha Grande is fairly affordable as a port of call. Check out the diagram below for the average cost per day by month. Sailings visiting Ilha Grande during the the peak season of winter are much more expensive than the the low season of fall.
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