Top Things to do in Ilha Grande
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What to do and see in Ilha Grande, State of Rio de Janeiro (RJ): The Best Free Things to do
So close to Rio de Janeiro, yet so different, Ilha Grande is Brazil’s relaxing, undeveloped paradise. Stepping off the ferry to the island is to disconnect from the outside world. No cars, no banks (bring your money!), no ringing phones. It’s all about relaxing in the sun, sailing, swimming, disappearing into spas and reemerging for fresh seafood at one of the 30 small restaurants.
Restaurants in Ilha Grande
1. Pico do Papagaio
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 720 reviews
Reviewed By 394maggiet
Martin was a an absolute joy to work with. He is professional and knowledgeable while still making the experience fun and enjoyable. We completed both the parrot peak hike and also the sunset canoe trip. Martins tours are an amazing experience and I highly recommend him if you enjoy staying active while on the island. During our time we were able to experience a variety of unforgettable moments including watching one of the most spectacular sunrises I’ve ever seen and swimming with bioluminescence. Martin keeps the mood light and also provided us with amazing photos of the entire adventure for no additional cost. 10/10 recommend!
2. Lopes Mendes Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,714 reviews
Reviewed By ElaineE24 - Dublin, Ireland
One of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever been to. You can get a taxi boat out from Abroaa to Pousa ( 25 real) and from there it’s a 15 minute walk through the jungle to get here. White sandy beaches and crystal blue water will greet you on arrival! Be prepared it gets quite busy but you can walk much further down the beach to get a quiet spot. They also have lifeguards working. They don’t have any facilities on the beach so make sure you pack a picnic and some beers.
3. Aracatibinha Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 189 reviews
Reviewed By kariend2016 - Angra Dos Reis, Brazil
This beach is a 30min hike through the Atlantic rainforest from our guesthouse, Vila Pedra Mar.It is a beautiful beach with lots of trees (natural shade) and lovely waves for swimming.During high season or weekends there is a Kiosk that serves various drinks and snacks. Calm, crystal clear waters. We go there regularly...
4. Dois Rios Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,117 reviews
Reviewed By ColleenB1778
We loved hiking to Dois Rios. It's definitely an undertaking- so be prepared. As others have said, it's about 2.5 hours each way, plus you will likely want to spend a couple hours there exploring the beach and the jail museum (free). It's a pretty strenuous hike, and though others have been able to make the trip back by boat, but they are not always available so you should be prepared to walk both ways. We tried to arrange for a boat to pick us up but the seas were too rough on that side of the island that day. The small town of Vila de Dois Rios has a small restaurant/store where you can get water/snacks. The hike was very worth it. The beach where the river meets the ocean was incredibly beautiful, and we basically had the beach to ourselves.
