Angra Dos Reis

Angra dos Reis, a coastal paradise on Brazil's Green Coast, is a stunning archipelago of 365 islands and endless coves framed by the Serra do Mar mountains. This is where the Atlantic Forest meets turquoise waters, creating a haven for sailors, divers, and anyone craving tropical beauty without the crowds of Rio. The town itself has a charming colonial center with whitewashed churches and cobblestone streets, but the real draw lies offshore.

Highlights & What to See

• Ilha Grande – The crown jewel: a car-free island with pristine beaches like Lopes Mendes, lush jungle hikes to Pico do Papagaio, and the haunting ruins of the old prison at Abraão.
• Boat tours of the islands – Hop on a schooner to explore hidden coves, snorkel in clear waters, and visit secluded beaches accessible only by sea.
• Praia do Dentista – A tiny, postcard-perfect beach with calm, crystal-clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Lagoa Azul & Lagoa Verde – Two protected bays where the water glows in shades of turquoise and emerald, perfect for a dip.
• Colonial Angra – Wander the historic center with its 18th-century Nossa Senhora da Assunção Church and the lively waterfront kiosks serving fresh seafood.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least three to four days to do Angra justice. Spend one day exploring the town and taking a short boat trip to nearby islands. Dedicate at least two full days to Ilha Grande – one for hiking and beach-hopping, another for a boat tour around the island's wilder side. If you're a diver or sailor, tack on extra days to explore the more remote islands. The pace here is relaxed; don't rush the ferry schedules.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Paraty – A beautifully preserved colonial town two hours south, with a stunning bay and easy access to the Serra da Bocaina National Park.
• Ilhabela – A larger island northeast of Angra, famous for its rainforest-covered mountains and excellent windsurfing.
• Rio de Janeiro – A three-hour drive (or bus) east, offering world-famous sights like Sugarloaf and Copacabana.
• Serra da Bocaina National Park – Inland from Paraty, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and Atlantic Forest wildlife.
• Trindade – A laid-back beach village near Paraty, known for its dramatic coast and surfing waves.

Please check official sources for current details.