Located on Brazil's Costa Verde, this coastal town has 365 islands dotted along its shoreline. Clear waters and lush mountains frame its historic 17th-century churches and beaches.
Angra dos Reis stretches along Brazil's Atlantic coast in Rio de Janeiro state, where you'll find 365 islands and more than 2,000 beaches. You can swim with yellow-tail snappers at Botinas Island, hike the 7-kilometer Pico do Papagaio trail on Ilha Grande, or walk through the 16th-century Nossa Senhora do Carmo church in the city center. Local fishing boats still bring in fresh catches daily to the town's harbor, while modern marinas serve as launching points for sailing trips through the calm waters of the bay.
Historical Context
Portuguese navigator Gaspar de Lemos arrived in this bay on January 6, 1502 - Three Kings Day - giving the area its name: Angra dos Reis (Kings' Bay). The town grew into an important colonial port, with many buildings from that era still standing, including the Nossa Senhora do Carmo church and the colonial naval complex.
Getting to Angra dos Reis
You can drive from Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis in about three hours along the BR-101 highway. Buses depart from Rio's Novo Rio bus station every hour between 4 AM and 10:45 PM. The closest airports are in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, with ground transportation available from both cities.
Best Time to Visit Angra dos Reis
Plan your visit between September and November or March and May for mild weather. Summer (December to February) brings temperatures above 85°F (29°C), high humidity, and afternoon rain showers, plus larger crowds. In winter (July and August), temperatures can drop to 60°F (15°C), making swimming less comfortable.
Exploring the Islands
You can visit many of the 365 islands by boat or water taxi. Some islands remain completely natural, while others have private homes. The waters between islands stay generally calm, making island-hopping straightforward. On Ilha Grande, you'll find hiking trails leading to waterfalls and beaches like Lopes Mendes and Dois Rios.
Water Activities
The waters around Jorge Grego Island and Castelhanos Point contain schools of parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles among coral formations. Several sailing schools near the main harbor teach basic navigation and rent equipment. You can also join guided snorkeling tours or rent kayaks for independent exploration.
Local Transportation
To reach most attractions, you'll need to take boats. Ferries run between the mainland and Ilha Grande, taking 80 minutes each way. In the main town, local buses and taxis connect the nearby beaches and neighborhoods.
Weather Patterns
Temperatures average 75°F (24°C) throughout the year. Expect brief rain showers in any season, particularly during summer afternoons (December-February). Water temperatures range from 71°F (22°C) in winter to 77°F (25°C) in summer.
