Ilha Grande is one of the most incredible destinations in Rio de Janeiro.
Have you ever thought about visiting unspoiled beaches and lush nature without leaving Brazil?
In this article, you'll discover everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Ilha Grande.
How to Reach Ilha Grande Safely and Economically
Ilha Grande has no car access, so the crossing is done exclusively by boat.
You can choose between public boats, speedboats, or tourist schooners, depending on your time and budget.
Main departure points for Ilha Grande:
- Mangaratiba
Crossing by boat from CCR Barcas, ideal for those seeking savings.
Go out once a day, usually in the morning. - Conceição de Jacareí
Best value for money.
Frequent departures on speedboats, with an average duration of 15 to 20 minutes to Vila do Abraão. - Angra dos Reis
Option with more schedules and types of vessels.
Ideal for those who are already in Angra or want to take additional boat tours.
I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that. Useful tip: The prices range from R$ 20 to R$ 100 per person, depending on the company and the type of vessel.
Furthermore, it's worth remembering that there are no cars on Ilha GrandeAll transportation is done on foot, by bicycle, or by boat.
Channel: Cine Travel
Best Time to Visit Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande is beautiful all year round, but some months are more advantageous for those looking to make the most of it.
Check out the best times to travel:
- April to September
Drier weather, ideal for hiking, outings, and beaches.
Lower risk of rain and good conditions for vessels. - Summer (December to March)
Hottest period, with rougher seas and a higher chance of rain.
It’s high season, so everything gets busier and more expensive.
📌 Traveler's tip: If possible, travel during the low season (April, May, or September). Prices drop and the trails are quieter.
The weather forecast can change quickly there. Therefore, it's good to keep track of weather apps a few days in advance.
What to Do in Ilha Grande in 3 Days
Even with just a few days, it's possible to explore beaches, trails, and take amazing tours.
Ideal itinerary for 3 days:
- Day 1: Arrival + Vila do Abraão
Take the opportunity to explore the main village of the island.
Walk along the waterfront, try a local restaurant, and watch the sunset at Praia do Canto. - Day 2: Boat tour + Lopes Mendes
Take the tour called "Half Round the Island" or go straight to Lopes Mendes Beach.
This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, with crystal clear water and white sand. - Day 3: Easy hike + Praia Preta + Feiticeira Waterfall
Ideal for those who want nature and adventure.
The trail is easy and goes through viewpoints and historical sites.
🎒 Smart tip: Wear comfortable sneakers, bring water and insect repellent on the trails. Get ready to walk a lot.
With this itinerary, you can discover the essentials of the island without rushing — and still take amazing photos to keep as souvenirs.
How Many Beaches Are There on Ilha Grande and Which Are the Most Beautiful?
Ilha Grande has more than 100 beaches, each with unique characteristics.
Some are deserted and wild, while others have good facilities for tourists.
Highlights among the most beautiful beaches of Ilha Grande:
- Lopes Mendes
Famous for its natural beauty.
Clear sand, blue sea, and surrounded by native vegetation. - Aventureiro Beach
Paradisiacal view and setting of the famous crooked coconut tree.
Perfect for those seeking unspoiled nature. - Dois Rios Beach
Where the old Cândido Mendes prison used to be.
Today is a paradise accessible by trail, perfect for those who enjoy exploring. - Blue Lagoon and Green Lagoon
Perfect for snorkeling.
Shallow and crystal-clear waters filled with colorful fish.
🏝️ Curiosity: Some beaches are only accessible by trail or boat, which helps preserve the natural beauty.
It's not possible to visit them all in one trip, but it's worth creating an itinerary focused on the ones that best match your style.
Where to Stay in Ilha Grande: Guesthouses and Hotels for All Profiles
The main area to stay is the Abraão Village, where most of the inns, restaurants, and tour departures are located.
Best areas to stay:
- Abraão Village
Ideal for those who want convenience and easy access to everything.
There are options ranging from cheap inns to more comfortable hotels. - Bananal Beach or Star Cove
Great for those seeking tranquility and direct contact with nature.
Some accommodations are by the sea and further away from the hustle and bustle. - Aventureiro Beach
A more rugged region, perfect for adventurers and backpackers.
Some accommodations operate on solar energy and have weak cell phone signals.
🛏️ Tip to save money: Book in advance and, if possible, travel outside of peak season. This way, you can find cheapest inns in Ilha Grande and even discounts on hotels.
Furthermore, there is hostels and campgrounds for those traveling on a budget — and several hotels with packages that include breakfast and tours.
How Much Does the Crossing and Boat Tours in Ilha Grande Cost
Prices can vary significantly depending on the type of vessel, company, and itinerary chosen.
Average costs for crossing to the Island:
- Mangaratiba → Vila do Abraão (public ferry)
About R$ 20 per person (1h30 of crossing). - Conceição de Jacareí → Abraão (speedboat)
Average of R$ 50 to R$ 80 per segment (15 to 20 minutes). - Angra dos ReisIlha Grande
Boat and ferry options. Prices between R$ 30 and R$ 90.
Most sought-after boat tours:
- Halfway Around the Island
Visit beaches like Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Verde, Saco do Céu, Praia do Amor.
It costs an average of R$ 150 per person (with stops for swimming and snorkeling). - Complete Tour of the Island
Includes more remote beaches such as Aventureiro and Parnaioca.
Average price of R$ 200 to R$ 250.
🚤 Important tip: Carry cash. Many places and boat operators do not accept card payments.
All tours are conducted with local guides and offer life jackets, water, and strategic stops for snorkeling.
How to Get Around Ilha Grande and What to Take in Your Luggage
As it is an environmental protection area, there are no cars on Ilha Grande. This makes the experience more peaceful and closer to nature.
Transportation options on the island:
- Hiking
Most of the trails and beaches are accessible by foot.
Always carry a map or use apps like Maps.me. - Water taxis
Used to go from one beach to another quickly.
They are paid per leg and negotiated directly with the boatman. - Organized tours
Ideal for those who want to visit several beaches in one day.
Includes transportation, guide, and stops for swimming.
What to bring to Ilha Grande:
- Light and comfortable clothing
- Hiking shoes
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Cash
- Towel, beach mat, and small backpack
- Portable charger (limited power in some regions)
🎒 Bonus tip: Bring a flashlight, especially if you are staying outside the Vila do Abraão. Some areas have poor lighting at night.
With these tips, you avoid hassles and enjoy the best of the island with comfort and safety.
Is the Water of Ilha Grande Cold? And What is the Weather Like?
This question is common among first-time travelers.
The good news is that the water is not as cold as it seems, especially in the warmer months.
Water temperature:
- Summer (December to March)
Temperature between 23°C and 26°C.
Ideal for diving and prolonged beach baths. - Winter (June to August)
It varies from 20°C to 22°C.
A little cooler, but still pleasant on sunny days.
General climate of Ilha Grande:
- humid tropical climate
In other words, it can rain even outside the rainy season.
Average temperatures range from 19°C to 30°C throughout the year.
☀️ Golden tip: Always check the weather forecast before heading out for hikes or boat trips. This avoids unforeseen events.
In general, the weather in Ilha Grande is perfect for enjoying beaches, hiking, and taking advantage of nature, especially between April and September.
The Most Beautiful Places on Ilha Grande That You Need to Know
With so many breathtaking landscapes, it's hard to choose just one place as the most beautiful on the island.
Check out the favorites of those who visit Ilha Grande:
- Lopes Mendes Beach
Considered one of the most beautiful in Brazil.
White sand, clear sea, and surrounded by native vegetation. - Blue Lagoon
Natural pool ideal for snorkeling.
Filled with colorful little fish and calm waters. - Aventureiro Beach
Postcard scenery, featuring the most famous crooked palm tree in the region.
Ideal for those who love wild nature. - Two Rivers
One of the most visually stunning beaches.
Historical ruins and the meeting of two rivers with the sea. - Feiticeira Waterfall
Waterfall in the midst of the Atlantic Forest.
Accessible path via a light trail from Vila do Abraão.
📸 Tip for amazing photos: Go early to the most famous beaches and take a waterproof phone case to capture everything.
These places summarize well the charm of Ilha Grande: preserved nature, tranquility, and a lot of natural beauty.
How Many Days to Stay on Ilha Grande to Make the Most of It
The duration of the trip depends on your style of travel and what you want to see.
But, overall, the ideal is to book at least a few days to enjoy the destination at a leisurely pace.
Recommendations by traveler type:
- Short trip (2 to 3 days)
You can visit Vila do Abraão, take a boat tour, and enjoy one or two famous beaches. - Average trip (4 to 5 days)
Allows you to explore trails, take more than one boat tour, and visit more remote beaches. - Long trip (7 days or more)
Ideal for those who want to hike long trails, visit less explored areas, and truly relax.
⛱️ Smart tip: The longer you stay, the less the cost of the crossing and transportation affects the total value of the trip.
Ilha Grande has a lot to offer, so it's worth planning ahead to enjoy everything without haste.
Conclusion
Ilha Grande is the kind of place that captures your heart on the first visit.
With paradisiacal beaches, incredible trails, and preserved nature, it offers unique experiences for all types of travelers.
Whether to relax, explore, or venture out, this paradise on the coast of Rio de Janeiro is a complete and unforgettable destination.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ilha Grande
1. Where is Ilha Grande located?
Ilha Grande is located on the southern coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro, in the municipality of Angra dos Reis.
2. What is the best time to go to Ilha Grande?
Between April and September, when the weather is drier and temperatures are pleasant.
3. How much does the crossing to Ilha Grande cost?
Prices vary between R$ 20 and R$ 90 per person, depending on the departure location and type of transportation.
4. What to do in Ilha Grande in 3 days?
Visit Vila do Abraão, explore Lopes Mendes, take a boat tour, and enjoy easy trails like the one to Feiticeira.
5. How many beaches are there on Ilha Grande?
There are more than 100 beaches, with different styles — from deserted beaches to options with tourist infrastructure.
6. What is there on the island?
In addition to the beaches, there are trails, waterfalls, viewpoints, charming villages, and plenty of contact with nature.
7. Is the water at Ilha Grande cold?
Not too much. The water temperature ranges from 20°C to 26°C, becoming more pleasant in the summer.
8. What is the most beautiful place in Ilha Grande?
Lopes Mendes Beach is the most famous, but Aventureiro, Lagoa Azul, and Dois Rios are also spectacular.
9. How many days to stay on Ilha Grande?
The ideal is to stay for 4 to 5 days to enjoy the trails, beaches, and outings at a leisurely pace.
10. How to get around in Ilha Grande?
On foot, by water taxi, or via trails. Cars are not allowed on the island.
11. What is the average price of a boat tour in Ilha Grande?
It ranges between R$ 120 and R$ 250, depending on the route and the duration of the tour.
12. What should I take to Ilha Grande?
Light clothing, hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and flashlight.
13. What is the most beautiful beach on Ilha Grande?
Lopes Mendes is considered the most beautiful, with light sand and turquoise blue sea.
14. What is the most luxurious beach?
The Enseada das Estrelas has high-end inns, being one of the most exclusive regions.
15. What is the distance between Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande?
About 20 km, and the boat crossing takes on average 30 to 45 minutes.
16. Is there a car on Ilha Grande?
No. The island is an environmental preservation area and does not allow motor vehicles.
17. How much does the crossing from Angra to Ilha Grande cost?
It costs between R$ 30 and R$ 70 per person, depending on the chosen vessel.
18. What are the boat schedules to Ilha Grande?
Timings vary by departure location and company. It is advisable to check in advance.
19. Where to stay in Ilha Grande with good cost-effectiveness?
The village of Abraão features inns with varied prices, ranging from budget options to comfortable hotels.
20. Can I use a card on Ilha Grande?
Yes, but take cash, as some remote places do not accept cards.
