About the Port
Ilha Grande sits off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state, its interior almost entirely covered in dense Atlantic Forest that once sheltered pirates and later a notorious prison colony, now long closed. The island allows no cars, so paths and forest trails link its beaches and the small village of Abraão, where boats arrive and the pace stays unhurried.
Visitors come for the mix of jungle and sea: canopy walks alive with birdcall, glimpses of monkeys and tropical birds, and coves known for clear, calm water well suited to swimming and snorkeling. Abraão's waterfront, with its handful of shops and cafés, lies within easy walking distance of the pier, making it a natural starting point before setting out on foot or by small boat to the island's quieter beaches.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Ilha Grande Brazil.
Trek to Lopes Mendes Beach
Reached by a forest trail from Abraão (about 2-3 hours) or a shorter boat transfer, this long stretch of white sand and clear surf is widely considered one of Brazil's finest beaches.
Snorkel Lagoa Azul
A short boat ride from the pier leads to this sheltered inlet of strikingly clear turquoise water, where fish dart among rocks just below the surface—bring or rent a mask before setting out.
Explore the Old Prison Ruins
A trail past Dois Rios leads to the crumbling remains of the former penal colony, now reclaimed by forest; the walk itself passes waterfalls and quiet coves worth a swim stop.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Ilha Grande Brazil
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 3, 2027 | Holland America | Zaandam | 70 | $13,599 | |
| Jan 22, 2027 | Regent | Seven Seas Mariner | 11 | $13,099 | |
| Feb 13, 2027 | Holland America | Zaandam | 29 | $5,999 | |
| Feb 14, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 33 | $11,199 | |
| Feb 14, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 54 | $18,299 | |
| Mar 7, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 33 | $10,499 | |
| Mar 7, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 12 | $4,499 | |
| Mar 17, 2027 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Eclipse | 11 | $9,520 | |
| Nov 3, 2027 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Eclipse II | 11 | $9,366 | |
| Jan 5, 2028 | Silversea | Silver Shadow | 132 | $100,900 | |
| Feb 15, 2028 | Silversea | Silver Shadow | 12 | $12,900 | |
| Mar 26, 2028 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Eclipse | 11 | $9,739 | |
| Oct 27, 2028 | Oceania | Oceania Aurelia | 71 | $33,499 | |
| Nov 22, 2028 | Oceania | Oceania Aurelia | 10 | $5,099 |