THE ISLAND OF ILHABELA

Ilhabela was discovered by Americus Vespucius 500 years ago. It was officially named Ilha de São Sebastião and it is one of 12 islands that comprise the São Sebastião archipelago. Apart from Ilhabela, 3 islands are inhabited: Vitória, Búzios and Ilha das Cabras.

Ilhabela has 41 wonderful beaches, more than 300 waterfalls and lots of vegetation.

Because of its winds and calm waters Ilhabela is known as the “Sailing Capital”. The island has two sides: one facing the continent and the channel, the urban side. Its pictorial centre has colonial-style buildings. Rua do Meio is a nice place to go out in the evening, with rustic and sophisticated restaurants and bars.

It is possible to travel along the coast from north to south on the continental (west) side of the island – where streets are paved and where the village is located.

The other side is wilder. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it is a state Park. The coastline is interspersed with rocky spots and deserted beaches. Some of these have good waves for surfing, while others are calmer and ideal for diving. This part of the island should be visited on 4x4 vehicles, by boat, on foot or by bike. The south of the island is the most urban area, while the wild north is virtually untouched.

Ilhabela has an area of 350km2 (215m2) and 150km (95m) of shore. It is the largest maritime island in Brazil, of which more than 90% is Mata Atlântica. Its flora and fauna are extremely rich with multi-coloured birds and animals often seen in the tracks that lead to the beautiful waterfalls. Its peaks reach over 1300m (95 miles) with spectacular panoramic views. The Papagaio and Baepi peaks, the track to Cachoeira do Gato, and Baía dos Castelhanos are a few of a number of attractions, besides beaches for all kinds of taste.

The average yearly temperature is 18oC (64F) ranging from 15oC (59F) to 34oC (93F). The climate is temperate, humid, and the rain season is from September to December. The driest period goes from March to June.

The island is a common destination for beachgoers, sea-sport fans and nature lovers. Partying is, of course, always an option in the village’s charming centre. It is also a good place to take your children, because there are calm beaches with good infrastructure.

Compared to other Brazilian islands such as Fernando de Noronha and Ilha Grande, it is much more accessible economically, geographically – compared to Noronha, and because you can get to the island with your car on the ferry. It is also larger and more urbanized.

You can indulge in a number of activities on the island: boat rides, diving, snorkelling, going for walks, rappelling, and off-road. Eco Point is a park where you can entertain zip trekking, Tyrolean traverse, or walk to the Zabumba waterfall.

The ride to Baía dos Castelhanos is a beautiful one that can be undertaken by any kind of person, since you travel on a 4x4. The trip is 22km-long (about an hour ride). This is the place where you can see the dolphins. It is a wonderful ride crossing the island.

Although not crucial, it is advisable to hire a guide for walks in the forest to better appreciate the plants and animals, besides refreshing in its wonderful waterfalls, some of which are over 60 meters (66 yards) high!

You will also find windsurf and sailing schools on the island.

We recommend the following beaches: Viana and Pacuíba for families; Perequê and Saco da Capela for partying; Curral for youngsters; Engenho d’Água for yachting; Praia da Fome, Bonete and Jabaquara for those who like to be in contact with nature.

Gastronomy and nightlife: There are a number of restaurants with excellent service in the village. There is food for all kinds of taste: pasta, pizza, meat and, especially, fish and seafood.

“Semana da Vela” (sailing week) is the largest sailing event in South America. The event, which has taken place since 1973 in July, brings together more than 1500 participants.

We advise you to take mosquito repellents because although they have been fought against and their numbers have been reduced recently, you still find borrachudos in some beaches. These are harmless tiny mosquitoes, but their bites can be rather uncomfortable. It is possible to buy repellents on the island, too. Citronella repellents are the most recommendable.

Ilhabela have agencies banks: Banespa, Banco do Brasil, Itaú, Bradesco and CEF.