Ilha Grande is chosen as the 13th most beautiful island in the world in 2026

Anyone who has set foot on Lopes Mendes or seen the Blue Lagoon early in the morning knows it: Ilha Grande is not an ordinary place. Now the world has confirmed it in writing — Big 7 Travel (via Enjoy Travel) ranked our island in 13th position among the 50 most beautiful islands on the planet to visit in 2026, the only Brazilian destination on the list.

The news broke in early July and spread throughout Brazil. And here, for those who wake up every day to this landscape, the feeling is twofold: pride in seeing Ilha Grande alongside giants like Sri Lanka and Galapagos, and that "we always knew it" smile.

The recognition

13th among the 50 best islands in the world

The ranking brings together fifty islands from all continents, chosen based on social media impact and the editorial team's evaluation. Among so many paradises, Ilha Grande was the only representative from Brazil — and not by chance. The description accompanying the position summarizes what we feel here every day:

"A true preserved paradise, covered by Atlantic Forest and surrounded by beaches with crystal clear waters and coral reefs."— 50 Best Islands in the World 2026, Big 7 Travel

Why it charms

What makes Ilha Grande a preserved paradise

The answer fits in three words: jungle, sea, and silence. Ilha Grande is part of the Costa Verde (Green Coast), on the southern coast of Rio de Janeiro, and much of it is a protected area. There are no cars — you move on foot, by trail, or by boat — and it is precisely this lack of rush that keeps the forest intact and the water transparent.

Aventureiro Beach · Ilha Grande

There are over a hundred beaches, each with its own character: the white sand and open sea of Lopes Mendes, the calm emerald green of the Blue Lagoon, the reefs of Freguesia de Santana. And, above all, the Atlantic Forest descending to the shore, as if the jungle is bathing in the sea with you.

Caxadaço Beach · Ilha Grande

In practice

How to discover Brazil's most beautiful island

If the list has awakened your desire to travel, the good news is that getting there is simpler than it seems. Ilha Grande is just a few hours from Rio de Janeiro, and the boat crossing is already part of the experience.

From the mainland, we organize your complete journey with land transfer from Rio and the boat crossing in approved vessels, with punctual schedules and guaranteed seating. Upon arrival, you just have to choose between boat tours to the beaches or the trails that cross the Atlantic Forest — from the Pico do Papagaio viewpoint to the Lopes Mendes path.

Those who prefer to have everything sorted out at once can book a package with accommodation, transport, and tours, and enjoy the island without worries. For any questions, Ilha Tour Support will assist you from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions