By Jenna Francisco
Brazil Travel Expert, about.com
lhabela, pronounced "EE-lyah BEH-lah," means "Beautiful Island" in Portuguese.
This archipelago, which includes its largest island of the same name,
is situated in the Atlantic Ocean just 4 miles off the coast of the
state of São Paulo. The tropical island, known for its calm beaches,
waterfalls, and diving opportunities, makes an easy getaway from the
busy lifestyle in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
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Much
of the island is a state park, and some parts are underdeveloped and
therefore accessible only by boat. Like much of Brazil's islands and
coastal terrain, the island is covered in forests and mountains. The
eastern side of the island has few inhabitants or accessible roads;
because the eastern side faces the Atlantic Ocean, the waves here are
stronger, attracting surfers.
The long western edge of the island Ilhabela
has more than twenty calm beaches and the access point for the ferry
boat from the mainland to the island. The island's best known beach,
Praia do Bonete, is located at the southern end, while most of the
tourism development has occurred at the northern end of the island.
What to Do on Ilhabela:
Ilhabela
is best known for its beautiful beaches. Besides relaxing on the fine
sandy beaches and enjoying the warm water, travelers can explore the
island while hiking the hills that overlook the beaches. Kitesurfing,
sailing, surfing, and windsurfing are popular sport activities here.
SCUBA and free diving are also popular, partly due to the fact that the
waters surrounding Ilhabela are home to the country's largest
concentration of shipwrecks.
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Praia do Bonete: One of the beaches
that shouldn't be missed is Praia do Bonete on the southern end of the
island. This beach was named one of the most beautiful beaches of Brazil
by The Guardian. However, the beach is hard to access--you can arrive
by boat or by walking a 12km trail.
The island is also home to many waterfalls which can be reached along the hiking trails. The Trilha da Água Branca is one such hiking trail, which leads to several waterfalls.
Where to Stay:
Pousada Carolina:
This
family-run pousada is conveniently located near the historic center and
Praia do Perequê (Perequê Beach). The inn offers clean, comfortable,
affordable accommodations for couples and families with up to 4 beds in
one large room.
Porto Pacuíba:
This
refined, peaceful, family-friendly hotel has been a Trip Advisor's
Traveler's Choice hotel several years in a row. The hotel was completely
renovated in 2011 and now includes a hot tub, pool, indoor parking,
massage facilities, and new apartments. The lush outdoor gardens have a
sea view. It is located near a beach with good access to nearby hiking
on the north side of the island.
DPNY Beach Hotel & Spa:
The
island's nicest hotel, this seaside luxury hotel was named the best
beach hotel in South America by Condé Nast. Located on Praia do Curral, the hotel
is just steps away from the beach. The hotel has 83 luxury suites with a
king size bed and canopy, coffee maker, air conditioning, and
flat-screen TV with cable, and some suites include a jacuzzi. The huge
outdoor pool is heated. The hotel includes a spa, three restaurants, two
saunas, and beauty salon. Room rates include a breakfast buffet. The
hotel offers discount packages for booking early and staying several nights.
Useful to Know:
Ilhabela is home to one annoying type of insect, borrachudos.
At some beaches, these small, harmless yet pesky bugs will bite even
when using insect repellent. However, be sure to bring good mosquito
repellent when visiting Ilhabela.
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The island receives a very large number of visitors during Brazil's vacation times, especially beginning just before Christmas through the month of January. Consider visiting in early December and other off-season times for fewer crowds and lower prices.
The
ferry to Ilhabela can require a long wait, especially during high
season, but you can purchase advance tickets by following the directions
here.
