Written by Alexander Kopp, Maria Gaulto, Maria Vajello
06/08/2025
Gabriel Fontes de Sousa, Pexels
Ilha Grande is a tranquil, car-free island paradise off the coast of Brazil, offering an abundance of pristine beaches, lush Atlantic Rainforest, and clear waters for exploration. It is a destination perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature, engage in adventurous activities, or simply relax by the sea.
The main hub for social interaction on Ilha Grande is Vila do Abraão, which features various restaurants and shops. For those looking to meet fellow travelers, several hostels in Abraão, such as Hi Holandes Hostel and Aquario Hostel, provide a social atmosphere. Aquario Hostel is also known for hosting parties for a livelier evening experience.
Top 6 Things to do in Ilha Grande
Activities in Ilha Grande largely involve exploring its natural landscapes, including boat trips to stunning lagoons and beaches, hiking through lush rainforests to viewpoints and waterfalls, and immersing oneself in the island's marine life through snorkeling and diving.
1. Visit Lopes Mendes Beach
Widely regarded as one of Brazil's most beautiful beaches, Lopes Mendes features pristine white sands and clear, shallow waters. It is an ideal spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and even catching some waves for surfing. Almond trees offer natural shade along the shore. Visiting involves a scenic journey, combining a boat ride with a refreshing walk through the forest.
Cost: A round-trip boat transfer from Vila do Abraão to Praia do Pouso, followed by a hike, typically costs R$50-70. Guided tours that include this transport and trek are available from approximately $25 per person.
Transport: From Vila do Abraão, take a taxi boat (approximately 15 minutes) or a schooner (approximately 1 hour) to Praia do Pouso. From Praia do Pouso, follow the well-marked T11 trail for about 20-30 minutes (1 km) to reach Lopes Mendes Beach. Return boats operate from Praia do Pouso at scheduled times.
2. Boat Tour to Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde
Embarking on a boat tour to Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lagoon) reveals two of Ilha Grande's most captivating natural aquariums. These secluded spots boast crystal-clear waters, making them perfect for snorkeling to observe diverse marine life, including colorful fish and coral formations. Tours often include stops at other nearby beaches for swimming and enjoying refreshments.
Cost: Shared snorkeling excursions typically start from $15-$20 per person for half-day trips. Full-day speedboat tours can range from $72-$73 per person, while schooner tours might be around $56. Private tours are also available at a higher cost.
Transport: All boat tours depart from the main pier in Vila do Abraão.
3. Hike to Pico do Papagaio (Parrot Peak)
For those seeking a challenging adventure and panoramic views, the hike to Pico do Papagaio is highly recommended. This strenuous 6-kilometer trail (T13) from Vila do Abraão leads to the island's second-highest peak (982m). Reaching the summit, especially for sunrise, offers breathtaking vistas of the entire island and the mainland. Keep an eye out for howler monkeys, parrots, and other native birds along the way.
Cost: This hike can be undertaken independently with no direct cost beyond personal supplies. Guided tours are available and can be beneficial for navigation, though specific prices for guides vary.
Transport: The Pico do Papagaio trail (T13) begins directly from Vila do Abraão.
4. Hike to Feiticeira Waterfall and Beach
A moderate hike along the T2 trail from Vila do Abraão leads to the impressive Feiticeira Waterfall, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim beneath the cascading waters. Continuing past the waterfall brings one to Feiticeira Beach, a tranquil and often less crowded spot perfect for relaxing after the trek. The shaded trail offers a pleasant escape from the sun.
Cost: This activity is free for independent hikers. A taxi boat from Feiticeira Beach back to Abraão is an option for those who prefer not to hike back, typically costing R$15-20. Private guided hikes are available, with prices around $99.
Transport: The trail (T2) starts from Vila do Abraão. Taxi boats are available from Feiticeira Beach for return to Abraão.
5. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Ilha Grande boasts remarkable underwater visibility, making it a prime location for scuba diving and snorkeling. The waters teem with diverse marine life, including tropical fish, vibrant corals, and occasionally sea turtles, rays, and even Magellanic penguins during winter months. Several dive spots like Ilha de Jorge Grego and Gruta do Acaiá (Acaiá Cave) offer unique experiences, with beginner-friendly options available.
Cost: A discovery dive (baptism) for beginners typically costs around R$250 (approximately $50 USD). Snorkeling tours are often included in boat trips, or gear can be rented locally. Snorkeling-focused boat tours start from $15-$20.
Transport: Dive centers and tour operators are primarily located in Vila do Abraão, from where boats depart to various dive and snorkel sites around the island.
6. Explore Vila do Abraão and Lazareto Ruins
Vila do Abraão serves as the vibrant heart of Ilha Grande, a charming car-free village with cobblestone streets, a variety of restaurants, shops, and hostels. Exploring the village on foot offers a glimpse into local life. A short, easy loop walk, known as the Abraão Circuit (T1), takes visitors past Praia Preta (Black Beach), a natural swimming pool (Poção), a historic aqueduct, and the fascinating ruins of the Lazareto, a former hospital and prison.
Cost: Walking around Vila do Abraão and its immediate historical sites is free. Guided historical walking tours are available, with private tours costing approximately $60 for a 3-hour experience.
Transport: All exploration within Vila do Abraão and to the nearby ruins is done on foot.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
