The Top 3 Boat Tours in Ilha Grande
Plus a Must-Visit Bonus!
lha Grande is a slice of paradise for nature lovers, offering stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green landscapes. And let’s be honest, you simply can’t visit Ilha Grande without taking at least one boat tour.
These tours are a must to explore the island’s hidden gems and remote beaches that can’t be reached on foot.
Whether you’re up for a full-day adventure around the entire island, a shorter escape to magical lagoons, or a trip to one of Brazil’s most famous beaches, these boat tours are the perfect way to enhance your stay.
1. Full Island Circumnavigation Tour
Duration: Approximately 8 hours
Why choose this tour?
This is the ultimate tour for exploring Ilha Grande’s hidden gems and iconic spots. The Full Island Circumnavigation Tour takes you to remote beaches and incredible landscapes that are only accessible by boat. Throughout the day, you’ll visit:
- Praia do Cachadaço (Cachadaço Beach): A peaceful stretch of sand surrounded by lush vegetation. There’s also a short 10-minute trail leading to rocky cliffs with breathtaking views. Be careful, though—the rocks can be slippery!
- Praia da Parnaioca (Parnaioca Beach): A secluded beach where a tranquil river meets the ocean, creating a one-of-a-kind natural setting.
- Praia do Aventureiro (Aventureiro Beach): Famous for its leaning coconut tree, an Instagram-worthy spot that you can’t miss.
- Praia dos Meros (Meros Beach): A paradise for snorkeling, with vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.
- Enseada das Estrelas (Stars Cove): The final stop, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch and relax before heading back.
Tip: During the stop at Praia do Aventureiro, you’ll find small food stands selling snacks like pastéis and açaí—perfect to hold you over until lunch at the last stop.
2. Half-Island Tour
Duration: Approximately 6 hours
Why choose this tour?
Short on time but still want to see Ilha Grande’s highlights? The Half-Island Tour is the perfect option. It focuses on the island’s most famous beaches and lagoons, including:
- Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon): A natural aquarium with calm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Lagoa Verde (Green Lagoon): Known for its vibrant green tones and serene waters, another snorkeling paradise.
- Praia do Amor (Love Beach): A small, charming beach that’s great for photos and a quick dip.
This tour gives you a magical experience in a shorter time frame.
Tip: Don't forget to bring a snorkel mask, you can easily rent one near the pier where the tour departs.
3. Paradise Islands Tour
Duration: Approximately 6 hours
Why choose this tour?
If you want to explore the stunning islands surrounding Ilha Grande, the Paradise Islands Tour is the one for you. On this tour, you’ll visit:
- Ilha de Cataguases (Cataguases Island): Famous for its white sands and crystal-clear waters, it feels like stepping into a postcard.
- Ilhas Botinas (Botinas Islands): Two iconic islets that are perfect for snorkeling, with plenty of colorful fish and coral to discover.
- Praia do Dentista (Dentista Beach): Also known as Praia da Jurubaíba, this exclusive and breathtaking beach is known for its impossibly clear waters and stunning scenery.
During the tour, your boat will offer complimentary mineral water and a cooler with ice, so you can bring your own drinks and keep them cold throughout the day.
Tip: For those who love to explore, there's a trail that starts from the right side of the beach (facing the sea) and takes about 30 to 40 minutes to reach another beautiful beach, also known as Praia da Trilha. Just make sure to keep track of time so you don’t miss your boat departure!
Bonus: Trip to Lopes Mendes Beach
Duration: Varies
Why choose this tour?
Lopes Mendes is one of Brazil’s most famous beaches and a must-visit for anyone coming to Ilha Grande. However, keep in mind that no boats go directly to Lopes Mendes! Instead, a schooner will drop you off at
Praia do Pouso, where you’ll take a short
25-minute trail to Lopes Mendes.
The trail is well-marked but includes some uphill and downhill sections. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a long stretch of white sand, turquoise waters, and a perfect spot for relaxation or surfing.
Get your round-trip ticket to Lopes Mendes here!
But if you love the idea of a boat tour but don’t want to miss out on a good hike, you can take a stunning trail through the forest, crossing streams and beaches, and return by boat.
Want to know more about this alternative adventure? Click here!
Want a Private Tour?
Traveling with friends or family? Why not make your experience even more special with a private boat tour? In addition to the shared tours, you can also book a private boat and customize your itinerary for an exclusive adventure.
Important Tips for All Boat Tours
- Bring cash: While most villages on the island now have internet access, network issues can still happen, so it’s always a good idea to carry some cash just in case.
- Protect your electronics: Sea spray and open-sea conditions mean your belongings can get wet. Use waterproof bags or plastic covers to protect your phone, camera, and other electronics.
- Pack a windbreaker: During colder months, especially in winter, the ride back at the end of the day can get chilly. A light windbreaker or jacket will keep you comfortable.
- Snacks are a must: Since lunch is usually served at the end of the tour, bring some snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day.
- Bring your own drinks: All boats have mineral water and a cooler with ice, so feel free to bring your favorite drinks to enjoy during the tour.
- Be prepared for wet landings: Depending on the tide, the boat may not be able to dock directly on the beach. In some cases, you may have to disembark in shallow water, and floating noodles are usually provided to assist.
Which Tour Will You Choose?
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on Ilha Grande’s top boat tours, it’s time to pick your favorite! Whether you’re joining a shared tour or opting for a private boat, one thing’s for sure—you’re in for an unforgettable experience in paradise.
Ready to set sail? Book your tour and start your adventure in Ilha Grande!
Planning Your Trip to Ilha Grande?
Make sure to check out these other posts to help you plan your adventure:
- How to Get to Ilha Grande
- Where to Stay: Best Accommodations in Ilha Grande
- Tips for those coming from Rio de Janeiro to Ilha Grande
And if you have extra time, why not extend your trip and visit Paraty? This charming colonial town, just a short journey from Ilha Grande, is the perfect addition to your itinerary, offering history, culture, and even more stunning beaches.
Ready to explore?
How to get to Paraty from Ilha Grande
Bus schedule Angra dos Reis to Paraty
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