Everything You Need to Know:: How to Get There, Where to Stay, and What to Do

Carla Damasceno • 13 November 2024

Travel Tips and Must-See Spots

Tranquil scene at Praia Preta, Ilha Grande, featuring a person standing on the sandy beach near a small stream with lush green forest and large boulders in the background, showcasing the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of this unique Brazilian destination

lha Grande is a breathtaking paradise off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, a place where crystal-clear beaches, lush Atlantic Forest trails, and a relaxed vibe come together to create an unforgettable experience. If you're thinking about visiting this special corner of Brazil, here’s a quick mini-guide with all the essentials to start planning your trip.

How to Get to Ilha Grande


First things first, Ilha Grande has no bridges or airports, which is part of its charm and helps preserve its natural beauty. The island is only accessible by boat, with departures from Angra dos Reis, Conceição de Jacareí, or Mangaratiba. Each departure point has its advantages, and transportation options range from fast speedboats to more affordable ferries.


Want more details on getting here? Check out our full guide!

Tourists boarding a boat at the scenic coast of Ilha Grande, with turquoise water, lush mountains, and a sandy beach in the background, capturing the tropical atmosphere.

While most visitors arrive at Vila do Abraão, the island's main port and central hub, it's essential to double-check where your accommodation is located before booking. Ilha Grande has other charming villages, like Araçatiba, Bananal, and Saco do Céu, which are further from Abraão.

Keep in mind that there is no regular transportation between the villages, so it’s important to plan ahead and confirm your arrival point based on your accommodation.

Where to Stay on Ilha Grande


Ilha Grande has accommodation options to suit every taste. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere with plenty of amenities, Vila do Abraão is the best choice. But for those seeking more peace and a closer connection to nature, villages like Araçatiba, Saco do Céu, Bananal, and Aventureiro offer inns, campsites, and vacation rentals with a more rustic, laid-back vibe.

See our top accommodation recommendations on Ilha Grande! Click here to find the perfect place to stay

Scenic view from a pool deck at Espaço Vila Ará in Araçatiba, Ilha Grande, overlooking the ocean and surrounded by tropical trees, with a stunning sunset casting a warm glow over the water, creating a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere

In addition to comfortable options, Ilha Grande also offers accommodations for all budgets. From cozy inns to campsites and hostels, there’s something for every traveler to make the most of their stay.

Scenic beachfront view at Aventureiro Beach, Ilha Grande, with shaded seating areas, tropical trees, and visitors enjoying the sandy shore and crystal-clear ocean, creating a vibrant and relaxing coastal atmosphere

Things to Do on Ilha Grande


The island is a haven for nature and adventure lovers. There are numerous trails connecting beaches and viewpoints, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in the Atlantic Forest. For those with more time and an adventurous spirit, multi-day hikes allow you to explore Ilha Grande in depth, covering different parts of the island and truly connecting with its natural beauty. Some must-do hikes include the famous Lopes Mendes, known as one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches, and the Pico do Papagaio Trail, perfect for those seeking a challenge and a stunning panoramic view.

For those who prefer water activities, boat tours offer fantastic options to explore Ilha Grande’s coastal beauty. The around-the-island tour is a great choice for discovering various beaches and hidden spots. Highlights include Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde for snorkeling, the iconic Praia do Aventureiro with its leaning palm tree, and Praia dos Meros, a remote beach with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

The most popular tours to explore Ilha Grande and experience its incredible beauty are the Half Island Tour, which takes you to the lagoons, and the 360° Tour, a complete trip around the island that reveals its wilder, untouched side. For those wanting to visit the famous Cataguases and Botinas Islands, the Paradisiacal Islands Tour is the perfect choice, offering crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery


Want to learn more about the best activities on the island? Check out our guide to tours and trails

Hiker enjoying the panoramic view from Pico do Papagaio, Ilha Grande, with lush green mountains, ocean, and scattered clouds, capturing the beauty of this tropical island landscape
Scenic view of a visitor enjoying the natural beauty at Lopes Mendes, Ilha Grande, with clear shallow waters, lush green hills, and a pristine sandy beach in the background

When to Visit Ilha Grande


Ilha Grande is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your travel style. Summer (December to March) is warm and ideal for beach days, but it’s also the busiest season. Winter, on the other hand, offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making it perfect for exploring trails at a slower pace.

See more tips on the best time to visit here!

Essential Tips

  • Be ready to disconnect: In many parts of the island, cell service is limited, so take the opportunity to disconnect and embrace nature.
  • Bring cash: Not all places accept cards, especially in the more remote areas.
  • Pack the essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for hiking are must-haves to fully enjoy the island.


Explore our blog for more tips and discover the magic of Ilha Grande!See all our Ilha Grande postshere!

Powered by GetYourGuide
Latest posts
Vista aérea da Praia da Piedade, na Ilha Grande, Brasil, com águas cristalinas, barcos ancorados, um

Os 3 Melhores Passeios de Barco na Ilha Grande

by Carla de Lima • 11 February 2025
Descubra os Melhores Passeios de Barco na Ilha Grande – Explore as praias deslumbrantes, lagoas cristalinas e joias escondidas da Ilha Grande com esses passeios de barco de primeira. De uma circunavegação completa da ilha a um passeio de ilha em ilha paradisíaca, descubra qual passeio é perfeito para você e receba dicas de especialistas para uma experiência inesquecível!
Aerial view of Praia da Piedade in Ilha Grande, Brazil, featuring crystal-clear waters, anchored boa

The Top 3 Boat Tours in Ilha Grande

by Carla de Lima • 11 February 2025
Discover the Best Boat Tours in Ilha Grande – Explore Ilha Grande’s stunning beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and hidden gems with these top boat tours. From a full island circumnavigation to paradise island hopping, find out which tour is perfect for you and get expert tips for an unforgettable experience.
Vista aérea da Vila do Abraão, Ilha Grande, com montanhas verdes exuberantes cercando uma baía turqu

Ilha Grande Descomplicada: Como Chegar, Onde Ficar e o Que Fazer

by Carla Damasceno • 13 November 2024
Planejando sua viagem para Ilha Grande? Descubra tudo o que você precisa saber com nosso mini-guia completo! Saiba como chegar à ilha, onde se hospedar, as melhores atividades para fazer e dicas essenciais para aproveitar ao máximo esse paraíso. Confira nossas sugestões e planeje uma viagem inesquecível
PT: Pretende viajar? Faça sua reserva aqui e aproveite as tarifas mais vantajosas.

Ao reservar com nossos parceiros, você terá acesso aos melhores preços, descontos especiais e ainda estará contribuindo com nosso trabalho. Podemos receber uma pequena comissão, mas isso não acarreta nenhum custo adicional para você!

EN - Planning to travel? Make your reservation here and take advantage of the most advantageous rates.

By booking with our partners, you'll have access to the best prices, special discounts, and you'll also be contributing to our work. We may receive a small commission, but it won't incur any additional cost to you!