Making the most of Ilhabela
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise ships cannot dock at Ilhabela, so passengers tender ashore.
There are several good beaches, although amenities are fairly basic. Ilhabela is a laid-back beach town, so simply relax.
Green and mountainous Ilhabela has always remained slightly separate from Brazil's mainland. Américo Vespúcci discovered it in 1502, and it later served as an outpost against foreign navies, pirates, slavery and smugglers. Efforts to tame the island for coffee growing eventually failed, leaving only rough mountain trails under the rain forest canopy where plantations once stood. Most of the island is now state-park reserve, creating a distinctive contrast: virgin beaches and rain forest are protected for exploration and adventure, while the other side has the same great…
Getting around
Ilhabela stands out for pristine beaches and untouched rain forest. Explore this outdoor paradise through one of the state-park beaches, such as Praia dos Castelhanos, a long, wild and completely undeveloped strand. Deep-blue sea meets mountains covered in virgin rain forest there. These beaches are difficult to reach, with some accessible only by boat, but the journey is worthwhile.
At the height of summer, insects are dreadful, particularly the small biting borrachudos. Use plenty of insect repellent at all times.
Nearby places
Near the ferry in Perequê, Maremar Turismo arranges outdoor activities including island schooner trips from R$35 per person, full-day diving to offshore wrecks with equipment from R$200, and two-hour horseback rides from R$50.
Food and shopping
Ilhabela is celebrated for Brazil's best shrimp, found almost everywhere and served in many different ways. Fresh-caught tuna is another local speciality, alongside tempting, mouth-watering fish of every kind.
The small village by the landing stage has an interesting cluster of shops, bars and stalls.
Money
The Brazilian Real is used here.
Staying connected
Portuguese is the spoken language.
Customer free WiFi is available at only a small number of cafes.
Opening Hours and
Most shops and businesses open 9am to 6pm, with an extended lunch break of roughly noon to 2pm.
Many museums do not open on monday.