Ilhabela Island is one of Brazil’s best-kept secrets, hiding in plain sight just off the coast of São Paulo. Its stunning natural beauty has remained relatively untouched compared to other famous tourist destinations in Brazil. The island is a paradise for nature lovers seeking breathtaking scenery, adventure activities, and a relaxed pace of life away from the bustle of major cities.
A Brief History of Ilhabela Island
Ilhabela has a rich history that helped shape its cultural identity today. The island was originally inhabited by the Tupi people until Portuguese explorers arrived in the mid-16th century. They established the first European settlement on the island and named it São Sebastião Island after the patron saint of Portugal.
During the colonial period in the 17th-18th centuries, the island saw conflicts between Portuguese colonists and French and Dutch pirates who sought its strategic location along shipping routes. European immigrants from Italy and Spain later arrived, leaving influences on the island’s architecture, cuisine, and religion.
Today, Ilhabela preserves a charming colonial atmosphere integrated with the natural landscapes and indigenous culture of its first inhabitants. It has remained relatively isolated compared to mainland developments, helping maintain its unspoiled rainforests, beaches, and slow-paced lifestyle that truly transports visitors back in time.
Things to See and Do in Ilhabela
Discover Secluded Beaches
Ilhabela is dotted with over 100 small beaches stretching along its jagged coastline. Here are some of the top beaches not to miss:
Calhaus Beach – One of the prettiest with white quartz pebbles and calm turquoise waters. A paradise for swimming.
Mãe Luíza Beach – Epic waves draw serious surfers, while the dramatic rock formations create intricate tide pools to explore.
Feiticeira Beach – Magical crescent cove sheltered by tall cliffs, only accessible by hiking trail or boat. Magnificent sunset spot.
Porto Velho Beach – Paradise beach with soft white sands and clear waters perfect for relaxation.
Saco da Ribeira Beach – Endless stretch of amazing sands backed by lush rainforest, a pristine paradise just an hour’s hike from the entrance.
Explore Picturesque Villages
The three main villages each have their own unique charm:
Ilhabela Village – Colorful colonial center with churches, plazas, and cobblestone streets perfect for wandering. Stop at Praça N.S. da Piedade for panoramic views.
Pereque Village – Laidback fishing village feel with waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood caught daily. Don’t miss the scenic cliffside hiking trail.
Barreira do Inferno Village – Hidden getaway nestled within verdant hills offering a relaxing countryside vibe. Go horseback riding along forest trails.
Discover Abandoned Forts and Ruins
dotted along the coast are abandoned forts and ruins telling the island’s history:
- Fortaleza de São João – Grand 16th-century fortress near Calhaus Beach with scenic views and maritime exhibits.
- Fortaleza de Ponta das Canas – Cliffside fort offering dazzling coastal panoramas stretching to the horizon.
- Ecofort Adventures Park – Interactive museum inside the ruins of Fortaleza de Ponta de Castelo, bringing history alive through simulations.
- Portuguese Colonial Ruins Park – Ruined 17th-century village reconstructed to envision colonial life, great for kids.
Go on Nature Adventures
Ilhabela boasts stunning nature trails and activities for all interests:
- Hiking the Rainforest Trails – Trek amidst the lush Mata Atlântica Rainforest, spotted with waterfalls like Cachoeira da Fumaça.
- Whale Watching – Spot humpback whales breaching offshore from July to November. Various boat tours can arrange sightings.
- Scuba Diving & Snorkeling – Explore colorful reefs teeming with marine life along the coastline. Equipment rental is available.
- Kayaking & Stand Up Paddling – Paddle scenic routes like the tranquil Estuário River spotting birds.
Planning Your Trip to Ilhabela
When to Visit
The best times to visit are:
- July-September – Dry season with warm weather ideal for beach activities. Whale sightings peak in July-August.
- November-February – Rainy season with occasional showers but still warm, less crowds. Whale watching ends in November.
- Holy Week – This is the busiest time as Brazilians vacation, book early. Weather is unpredictable.
Avoid the crowded summer school holidays of December-February for a more tranquil experience. Weather is humid all year with average highs 26°C.
Getting to Ilhabela
Ilhabela is accessible only by boat from the mainland town of São Sebastião. There are various transportation options:
- Public Ferry – Cheapest way, takes 1 hour, runs frequently 7 am-6 pm.
- Private Boat Transfer – Chartering a private boat is pricey but more flexible if traveling in a group.
- Airplane – Santos Dumont Airport has daily flights to São Sebastião Airport, then a public ferry connection.
- Bus from Sao Paulo – 3.5-hour bus ride to São Sebastião, then ferry connection.
Getting Around on the Island
Once on the island, get around by:
- Rental Car – Useful to explore remote beaches, book in advance. Drive carefully on winding roads.
- Taxi – Available at the ferry dock or call, good for sightseeing in a group.
- Island Hopper Bus – A cheap public bus connects villages and beaches daily, 7 am-7 pm.
- Bicycle/Scooter Rental – This is a fun way to traverse short distances on bike paths.
- Boat Tours – Popular for wildlife watching and accessing remote beaches.
Accommodation Options
Ilhabela offers various unique places to stay amidst nature:
- Pousadas – Stylish boutique inns nestled in villages or rainforests.
- Cabins & Cottages – Basic yet charming rustic cottages amid nature.
- Hotels & Resorts – Upscale resorts with amenities along the coastline.
- Homestays & Farmstays – Cultural immersion renting rooms in local homes.
- Camping – Pitch a tent near beaches like Estuário and Calhuas.
Book well ahead in high season as accommodations fill up. Majority located between the villages accessible without a car.
Top Tips for Your Trip
- Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Bring a water bottle to refill, as single-use plastics are banned on the island.
- Cash transactions are common, so bring some Brazilian Reals.
- Check ferry schedules for return trips to avoid missing the last boat.
- Rent a cell phone or purchase a chip with data, as service can be spotty.
- Allow extra time between activities for scenic exploration or just relaxing!
I hope this comprehensive guide gives you all the details needed to plan an unforgettable trip to the magical Ilhabela Island! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Ilhabela’s Unique Culture and Cuisine
Experiencing the Charming Colonial Atmosphere
Walking through the winding streets of Ilhabela Village, you’ll be transported back centuries to the colorful colonial era. The architecture is preserved with pastel-colored houses, tiled roofs, and churches like Igreja Matriz NS da Piedade dating to the 17th century.
Wander the charm streets, admiring mangoes, papayas, and flowers hanging overhead while local artisans sell handicrafts. Stop for a café or sweets at the lively central plaza. Sunday is the lively Feira Hippie Market Day, where artists sell clothes and crafts. Simply soaking in the historic ambiance is the perfect way to experience Ilhabela.
Indulging in Fresh Seafood & Regional Specialties
Ilhabela’s location provides an abundance of fresh seafood, which defines its unique cuisine. Must-try dishes include:
- Moqueca de peixe (fish stew cooked in coconut milk with peppers and cilantro). It’s the #1 signature dish.
- Arroz de marisco (rice simmered with shellfish like shrimp, crab, and mussels) is another specialty.
- Casquinha de siri (crunchy fried crab), served whole or in salads.
- Peixe frito (whole fried snapper or corvina) is delicious simply seasoned.
Regional fruits such as banana da terra (small sweet banana) and jabuticaba (native grape-like fruit) are also popular. Coconut sweets are a specialty, try cocada or brigadeiros de coco. Pair meals with chilled Brazilian beers or caipirinhas made from limes. Dining overlooking the water with this seafood is truly an experience in itself. Be sure to book high-season meals ahead.
