Ilha Grande Voted 13th Most Beautiful Island in the World in 2026

Anyone who has set foot on Lopes Mendes or seen the Lagoa Azul early in the morning knows: Ilha Grande is no ordinary place. Now the world has officially agreed — Big 7 Travel (via Enjoy Travel) ranked our island as the 13th most beautiful island 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 to this scenery every day, 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 buzz and the editorial team's evaluation. Among so many paradises, Ilha Grande was the only Brazilian representative — and not by chance. The description accompanying its placement summarizes what we feel here every day:

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

Why It Charms

What Makes Ilha Grande a Preserved Paradise

The answer fits in three words: forest, sea, and silence. Ilha Grande is part of the Costa Verde, on the southern coast of Rio de Janeiro, and much of it is a protected area. No cars circulate — you get around on foot, by trail, or by boat — and it is precisely this lack of rush that keeps the forest lush and the water transparent.

Aventureiro Beach · Ilha Grande

There are over a hundred beaches, each with a unique character: the pristine white sand and open sea of Lopes Mendes, the calm emerald green of Lagoa Azul, the coral reefs of Freguesia de Santana. And, above all, the Atlantic Forest extending down to the water's edge, as if the forest were bathing in the sea with you.

Caxadaço Beach · Ilha Grande

In Practice

How to Explore Brazil's Most Beautiful Island

If the list sparked your wanderlust, the good news is that getting here 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 on approved vessels, with precise schedules and guaranteed availability. Once you arrive, you can choose between boat tours to the beaches or trails that cut through the Atlantic Forest — from the Pico do Papagaio viewpoint to the path to Lopes Mendes.

Those who prefer to have everything sorted at once can book a package with accommodation, transport, and tours, and enjoy the island without worries. If any doubts arise along the way, Ilha Tour Support will be with you from start to finish.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions