Have you ever dreamed of a paradise surrounded by nature, beaches, trails and waterfalls? A place where you can relax, seek adventure, connect with the local culture and enjoy great food? If so, you need to discover Ilha Grande, one of the most incredible destinations in Rio de Janeiro state.
Ilha Grande is the largest island in the state and the sixth-largest sea island in Brazil. It belongs to the municipality of Angra dos Reis, in the region known as the Costa Verde (Green Coast). The island covers 193 km², with more than 100 beaches and small islets you can reach by boat or speedboat. It also has vast preserved Atlantic rainforest, with trails that enchant nature lovers.
But how do you see all of that in just 4 days? Is it possible to make the most of Ilha Grande in such a short time? Yes — if you follow the itinerary we've prepared for you. In this guide we'll show you how to enjoy 4 full days on Ilha Grande, with tips on what to do, where to stay, how to get there and much more. Take a look!
Day 1: Arrival and getting to know Vila do Abraão
The first step to enjoying Ilha Grande is getting there. You can depart from one of three points: Conceição de Jacareí, Mangaratiba or Angra dos Reis. All of them have parking and offer boats to Vila do Abraão, the island's main hub, home to most of the accommodation, restaurants, shops and services.
The boat trip takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour and a half, depending on the type of vessel and the departure point. Along the way you'll already be struck by the beauty of the Green Coast and the islands of the archipelago. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and water to stay hydrated.
When you arrive in Vila do Abraão, you'll check into your accommodation. We recommend choosing a guesthouse in the heart of the village, near the pier, the beach and the main shops — it makes getting around easier and lets you soak up the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Abraão. You can browse where to stay in Vila do Abraão here.
Once settled in, use the rest of the day to explore the village and its attractions. Walk along the waterfront, visit the São Sebastião church, the aqueduct, some of the lovely nearby beaches such as Praia Preta, and the ruins of the Lazareto, an old prison that now houses a visitor center. You can also hike to Praia do Abraãozinho, passing other beaches on the way, such as Praia da Júlia and Crena.
At night, enjoy the buzz of the village, with plenty of bars, restaurants, little shops and live music. Be sure to try the local cuisine, where fresh seafood is the star.
Day 2: Paradise Islands speedboat tour
On the second day you'll take an incredible speedboat tour to the Paradise Islands of Angra dos Reis, near the bay of Ilha Grande. It's one of the most enchanting routes, taking you to islands and beaches that are true postcards, with crystal-clear water, white sand and abundant marine life. The tour leaves from Vila do Abraão and runs along the west coast, stopping at places such as:
- Cataguases Island: a small but very charming island, with a white-sand beach and turquoise water. It's perfect for swimming, snorkeling and stand-up paddle. A few local vendors are usually around.
- Botinas Islands: two islets that stand out for their rounded shape and green color. They're one of the most famous spots in the region, great for snorkeling to see fish, coral and even dolphins. The water is so clear it looks like a natural pool.
- Praia da Piedade: a beach on Gipóia Island that has featured in magazines and TV shows. It has a historic chapel, a natural pool and a stunning view.
- Praia do Dentista: another beach on Gipóia Island, one of the most beautiful and lively in the region. With white sand and emerald-green water, it's popular with celebrities and those who arrive by speedboat.
Day 3: Meia Volta boat tour
On the third day you'll discover some of the most beautiful beaches on Ilha Grande during a full-day boat tour. The Meia Volta tour is one of the most popular with visitors, letting you see several beaches in a single day, with stops for swimming, snorkeling and lunch. It leaves from Vila do Abraão and runs along the north coast, stopping at places such as:
- Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon): one of the island's most famous spots, a natural aquarium where you can snorkel and see colorful fish, turtles and starfish. The water is crystal clear with an impressive blue hue.
- Lagoa Verde (Green Lagoon): another enchanting lagoon, with clear green water and a wide variety of fish and coral — ideal for relaxing and connecting with nature.
- Praia do Amor: a hidden beach accessible only by boat or trail. Legend says whoever bathes in its waters finds true love. It's a haven of peace and romance, perfect for couples.
- Praia da Feiticeira: a beach of white sand and green water, with a nearby waterfall reached by trail. It has a curious story: they say a sorceress (feiticeira) once lived here and enchanted the men passing by the island.
Day 4 (and last): Lopes Mendes schooner tour
On the final day you'll visit Lopes Mendes, a wild and beautiful beach with white sand, blue water and a wonderful sea. It's preserved and has no infrastructure.
To reach Lopes Mendes, you take a schooner to Praia de Mangues and then hike about 35 minutes through the forest. You can spend the whole day on this magnificent beach — swim, surf, walk, sunbathe, picnic or simply take in the scenery. Don't forget water, snacks, sunscreen and a hat, and never leave trash on the beach.
The Lopes Mendes schooner tour is a must, at an average cost of around R$50 per person. It leaves in the morning and returns around 4:30 pm, giving you time to catch the last boat back to the mainland. The last boats leave the island for the mainland between 5 and 6 pm.
Ilha Grande is the perfect destination for 4 days of pure fun
As you can see, Ilha Grande is a perfect destination when you don't have much time. And if you'd like to make your trip even easier, why not book a package that includes everything you need to experience Ilha Grande over 4 full days? We have the ideal suggestion for you: our PACOTE DIA LINDO (Beautiful Day Package). See all of our Ilha Grande boat tours too.
- Standard Suite accommodation in the center of Vila do Abraão
- Meia Volta speedboat tour
- Paradise Islands speedboat tour
- Lopes Mendes schooner tour
With our package, you'll get to visit the most stunning and famous beaches on the island, with all the comfort and safety that ILHA TOUR provides. You'll also save time and money, since the package is affordably priced with flexible payment terms.
Plan your unforgettable trip to Ilha Grande in 4 full days. See our tours and packages and check how to get to Ilha Grande. Your unforgettable journey is just a click away!
