This coastal Brazilian archipelago has 42 beaches, with mountains rising 1,379 meters above sea level. Its rainforests shelter rare birds and 800-year-old trees.
Ilhabela, an archipelago off Brazil's São Paulo coast, has clear waters where you can dive to 16th-century shipwrecks or swim at Praia do Julião. Hike through Atlantic Forest to reach Cachoeira dos Três Tombos waterfall, or take a challenging trek to Bonete Beach. The main island's western shores have calm waters reaching 24°C in summer, while the eastern coast draws surfers with waves up to 2 meters high.
Getting to Ilhabela
Car ferries depart every 30 minutes from São Sebastião between 6:00 and midnight, with hourly service overnight. The crossing takes 15 minutes and spans 2.4 kilometers. While cars pay a fee, pedestrians and cyclists cross for free. You can reach São Sebastião by bus from São Paulo (4 hours) or Rio de Janeiro (7.5 hours).
Exploring the Beaches
Swim at the calm western beaches like Praia do Curral, where water temperatures stay around 24°C year-round. Walk the short trail connecting Praia do Julião to Praia Grande for a quieter swimming spot. To reach Bonete Beach, take a 3-hour hike through forest trails or arrange a boat ride with local fishermen.
Marine Life and Diving
Dive among 16th-century shipwrecks from Dutch and English naval conflicts. At Ilha das Cabras, you'll find a bronze Zeus statue at 12 meters depth, surrounded by sergeant major fish and yellow goatfish. Local dive shops run daily trips to more than 15 dive sites around the archipelago.
Wildlife and Nature
Walk through Atlantic Forest trails to spot Giant Atlantic tree-rats and black-and-gold tegus lizards. Bring binoculars to see some of the 66 bird species that live in the forest canopy. The Ilhabela State Park covers 85% of the main island, with rangers conducting daily patrols to protect the ecosystem.
Hiking and Waterfalls
Follow marked trails to waterfalls like Cachoeira dos Três Tombos, which drops 35 meters through three tiers. Drive 45 minutes by 4x4 across the island to Castelhanos Beach, stopping at viewpoints overlooking the coast. The trails become muddy after rain, so bring grip-sole shoes.
Practical Information
Small black flies called borrachudos are active year-round, especially from December to February. Wear long sleeves and apply DEET-based repellent. Visit between October and December for fewer rainy days and smaller crowds. Local buses run along the western coast every 30 minutes from 5 AM to 1:30 AM.
