Plan a CruiseCruise ships tender passengers ashore in Ilhabela, a laid-back, mountainous island town known for its beaches. Discovered in 1502, the island has a rich history as an outpost against foreign navies and pirates. Today, much of Ilhabela is a state park reserve, offering a unique blend of preserved virgin beaches and rainforest for adventure, alongside the vibrant restaurants and nightlife found elsewhere in Brazil. A rocky mountain spine, blanketed in rainforest and cut by rivers and waterfalls, divides the island.
Important Warning: During the height of summer, insect activity, particularly from small biting flies known as "borrachudos," can be severe. It is crucial to use plenty of insect repellent at all times.
Getting Around from the Port
The tender will drop you off at a small village by the landing stage, which offers an interesting area of shops, bars, and stalls, making it walkable for immediate amenities. Many of Ilhabela's pristine beaches and rainforest attractions, especially those within the state park like Praia dos Castelhanos, are harder to access, with some only reachable by boat. For organized tours and activities that may require transport, Maremar Turismo is located in Perequê, near the ferry terminal. Specific public transport or taxi information to other parts of the island is not readily available, but boat trips are a key way to reach more secluded spots.
Attractions and Activities
Ilhabela is a paradise for outdoor exploration, focusing on its pristine beaches and untouched rainforest. Here are some options:
- Explore the State Park Beaches: Head to one of the secluded beaches within the state park, such as Praia dos Castelhanos. This is a long, wild, and undeveloped stretch of beach, offering stunning views of the deep blue sea and mountains covered in virgin rainforest. Be aware these beaches can be challenging to reach, with some only accessible by boat, but the journey is highly recommended.
- Organized Tours with Maremar Turismo: Located in Perequê near the ferry, Maremar Turismo offers various outdoor activities:
- Schooner Trips: Explore the island by boat for approximately R$35 per person.
- Diving to Offshore Wrecks: A full-day diving excursion, including all necessary equipment, starts from R$200.
- Horseback Riding: Enjoy a two-hour horseback riding adventure starting from R$50.
- Rainforest Trails and Waterfalls: The island's mountainous interior is covered in rainforest and cut through with small rivers and waterfalls, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural environment.
Crucial Tip: Remember to apply plenty of insect repellent throughout your day, especially during the summer months, due to the prevalence of "borrachudos" flies.
Dining & Shopping
Ilhabela is renowned for its culinary offerings, particularly seafood. The island is famous for having the best shrimp in all of Brazil, which you'll find prepared in numerous ways almost everywhere. Fresh caught tuna is another local specialty, and a wide variety of fresh, delicious fish is always available.
Near the landing stage where tenders arrive, there's a small village featuring an interesting area of shops, bars, and stalls. This is the primary spot for local shopping and dining convenience.
Most stores and businesses operate from 9 AM to 6 PM, often observing an extended lunch break from around noon to 2 PM.
Safety
The primary safety concern in Ilhabela is related to insects, particularly the small biting flies known as "borrachudos." These can be especially bothersome during the height of summer. It is strongly advised to use plenty of insect repellent at all times to prevent bites.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Brazilian Real (R$). While credit cards may be accepted in some establishments, it's wise to carry some cash. Be aware that cafes offering free WiFi for customers are sparse, which might also indicate a preference for cash transactions in smaller venues.