Parque Estadual de Ilhabela
A vast protected rainforest island paradise with stunning beaches, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Parque Estadual de Ilhabela
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast protected rainforest island paradise with stunning beaches, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
"An incredible place! There are 3 waterfalls and all of them are amazing!"
🚗 4x4 or Tour is Key
Many remote beaches require 4x4 access. Book a tour for easier exploration of the State Park.
🦟 Bug Spray is a Must
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water. Pack strong repellent!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Praia de Castelhanos
Northeastern coast
A stunning, secluded beach accessible by 4x4 or boat, offering pristine sands and lush surroundings.
Trilha da Água Branca
Parque Estadual de Ilhabela
A refreshing hike through the rainforest leading to beautiful waterfalls and natural pools.
Praia da Fome
Northern coast
A paradisiacal beach reachable only by boat, known for its clear waters and traditional Caiçara community.
Bonete Beach
Southern coast
A remote and wild beach, accessible via a challenging trail or boat, offering a true escape into nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Ilhabela's Natural Wonders
Embrace the Outdoors: What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 or Tour is Key
Many remote beaches require 4x4 access. Book a tour for easier exploration of the State Park.
🦟 Bug Spray is a Must
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water. Pack strong repellent!
💰 Bring Cash
Many places don't accept cards, so carry enough cash for purchases.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on hikes. Some vendors sell drinks, but it's good to be prepared.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 or Tour is Key
Many remote beaches require 4x4 access. Book a tour for easier exploration of the State Park.
🦟 Bug Spray is a Must
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water. Pack strong repellent!
💰 Bring Cash
Many places don't accept cards, so carry enough cash for purchases.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on hikes. Some vendors sell drinks, but it's good to be prepared.
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for hiking trails and exploring uneven terrain.
🚤 Boat Access for Beaches
Some of the most beautiful beaches, like Praia da Fome, are only accessible by boat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the park's stunning natural beauty, from its pristine beaches and lush rainforests to its numerous waterfalls. The opportunity for adventure, whether through hiking or 4x4 tours, is a major draw. However, some find the abundance of mosquitoes and the logistical challenges of accessing certain areas to be drawbacks.
"We really enjoyed our time visiting this park. You will have to park your car down the road and then walk up to the gate. We didn’t walk all the way to the beach because as we understand it there is a community of people that live over there and the land is disputed. The park guards told us they were protesting that day. We did not want to disturb these people. So we walked up the road, which doesn’t have much to see, then at some point we turned and took a trail in to walk back next to the creek which has the waterfalls. We went on a weekday in August which was kind of raining on and off. We were lucky and did not see a single other person on the entire hike! They have signs that are in English as well as Português so this was nice. Minus one star due to the bugs which ate my wife, leaving her scarred for weeks! Also for the silly sign that told people to mask up. I feel that in Brazil there is a misconception that outside you need to be masked and inside with people you know it’s okay. However we know that this is completely opposite of what we should do to mitigate COVID. Always wear a mask indoors, people! You are far more likely to get COVID from gathering indoors with family and friends, than you are from a stranger walking by outdoors in the open. That’s just the nature of an airborne virus. But, this is what happens when you get people with no knowledge of virology running their health ministry, like they have with their current ignorant president."
Hans Schmidt
"An incredible place! There are 3 waterfalls and all of them are amazing! The walk is hard but the view worth it. There is a small place selling water and some finger food but make sure you have a fruit or something like that."
Wesley Marcondes
"Must to see in Brasil, you can buy tour dirrectly from city through forest up to opposite side of island. This side is just awsome, nice clean beach, not so much people, but several restaurants can provide you anything you need. On way back you can go buy boat around island back to main city. I recommend to use some travel agency (I have used Maremar Turismo and I was very satisfied), because you will need to have 4x4 car to get there (otherwise you will be send back)."
Radek Hradsky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by bus, which takes about 4 hours from São Paulo. You'll then need to take a ferry to Ilhabela island.
Yes, you can drive to Ilhabela, but you'll need to take a ferry. Once on the island, access to certain areas within the park, like Castelhanos, requires a 4x4 vehicle. 
For areas like Praia de Castelhanos or Praia da Fome, booking a guided tour with a 4x4 vehicle or a boat trip is highly recommended, as private car access can be restricted or require specific vehicles.
While there are local buses on the main roads, reaching many park attractions requires specialized transport like 4x4s or boats.
While some attempt it, cycling to Ilhabela involves a ferry crossing and potentially challenging terrain within the park, making it an adventure for experienced cyclists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free, but specific tours or access to certain beaches might have associated costs.
The park is generally open year-round, but specific trails or attractions might have limited access times. It's best to check locally or with tour operators.
As a protected area, there are rules to preserve the ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Visiting on weekdays is often recommended to avoid larger crowds, especially during peak seasons.
While the park itself may not have a fee, some beaches or access points might have local charges or require tour bookings.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Trilha da Água Branca for waterfalls and the more challenging routes to Bonete or Castelhanos.
Yes, the park is known for its numerous waterfalls, with the Trilha da Água Branca offering access to several beautiful cascades.
The park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to various bird species, monkeys, and other native fauna.
Yes, many of the waterfalls and natural pools within the park are suitable for swimming, offering a refreshing experience.
While many trails are marked, it's advisable to hike with a companion or a guide, especially on longer or more remote routes, and to inform someone of your plans.
🎫 🦟 Nature & Wildlife
Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially near water and in humid areas. Using a strong insect repellent is crucial for a comfortable visit.
While the park is rich in wildlife, encounters with dangerous animals are rare. It's always wise to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding any animals.
Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times for wildlife spotting. Staying quiet and observant on trails can increase your chances.
Stick to marked trails, do not litter, avoid picking plants or disturbing animals, and use reef-safe sunscreen if swimming in the ocean.
Ilhabela's diverse habitats support a wide variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beaches like Praia do Curral or Praia do Perequê are generally calmer and have more infrastructure. 💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples Retreat
Hike hand-in-hand through the lush rainforest to discover hidden waterfalls, or find a quiet spot on a less-crowded beach like Praia de Castelhanos for a sunset picnic. Consider a stay in a charming pousada with ocean views for a memorable getaway. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ilhabela's Pristine Beaches
+1 Another must-visit is Praia da Fome, accessible only by boat, offering a truly secluded paradise experience with a traditional Caiçara community. For those seeking a more rugged adventure, Praia do Bonete on the southern tip is a remote haven, reachable by a challenging trail or boat. It's known for its wild beauty and surf potential.
Hiking and Waterfalls in the State Park
+1 The park's commitment to conservation ensures these natural wonders are preserved for future generations. Beyond Água Branca, numerous other trails cater to different fitness levels. Some lead to more remote beaches like Bonete or Eustáquio, while others offer panoramic viewpoints.
Getting Around Ilhabela: Transport Essentials
+1 These tours often combine off-road driving with boat trips and hiking, offering a comprehensive exploration experience. For beaches like Praia da Fome, boat tours are the only option, providing a scenic journey along the coast.
If you're arriving from São Paulo, a bus journey followed by a ferry is the most common and straightforward method. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit