Discovering Brazil's Stunning Islands: A Car-Free Paradise

Cardoso Island

Cardoso Island is located at the southern tip of São Paulo state and has been a national park since 1962. It is not only beautiful with its pristine beaches but also features crystal-clear waters where dolphins and seals frolic. This destination is ideal for nature enthusiasts, with rugged coastlines, stunning waterfalls, and natural lakes.

Upon arriving at Ilha do Cardoso, you might encounter monkeys, caimans, otters, and parrots. If you’re lucky, you may even swim alongside wild dolphins.

Marajó Island

Marajó Island is renowned not just for its large size but also for its unique location at the mouth of the Amazon River. It is the largest flooded island in the world, with tidal waves that can reach up to 4 meters high. Thousands of bird species such as white herons and red ibises also make their home here.

Life on Marajó is slow and peaceful, where you can see water buffalo leisurely wandering along the roads. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway in nature, this is the perfect choice.

Campeche Island

Campeche Island is situated off the eastern coast of Florianopolis, featuring white sandy beaches and clear waters, making it perfect for snorkeling. Notably, the island is home to over 100 ancient carvings worth exploring.

Note that the number of visitors is limited each day, and you only have four hours to explore the island. Additionally, the island is closed during the winter.

Itamaracá Island

This location is a popular tourist spot for locals from Recife and Olinda. Itamaracá Island boasts charming beaches and historical sites such as the Fort Orange, built in 1631. If you enjoy water sports, you can kayak through mangrove forests, learn to surf, or simply swim in the warm waters.

There is also a manatee conservation center on the island, which is very appealing to children and animal lovers.

Make sure to visit Gruta das Encantadas, one of the island's most famous attractions!

Ilhabela

Known as the “beautiful island,” Ilhabela is located on the northern coast of São Paulo and features over 360 waterfalls alongside stunning beaches. The dense rainforest here is home to monkeys and about 300 bird species, including toucans.

In addition to water sports like surfing and diving, Ilhabela hosts the annual Rolex International Sailing Week, the largest sailing event in Latin America.

Santa Catarina Island

Santa Catarina Island perfectly blends nature and urban life. Here lies Florianopolis, the state capital, famous for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches like Joaquina, a favorite spot for surfers.

The island also features beautiful Brazilian pine forests, lakes, and sand dunes. It is popular among tourists from Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

Tinhare Island

Tinhare Island is highlighted by the village of Morro de Sao Paulo, where there are no streets or vehicles. The charming beaches with memorable names like First Beach and Second Beach are incredibly attractive to visitors.

Here, you can partake in various exciting activities such as diving or trekking. You can also visit the nearby Boipeba Island, which many travelers adore.

Grande Island

Ilha Grande is an underdeveloped island located about 160 km from Rio de Janeiro. It was once a leprosy hospital and prison before opening up to tourists.

The wildlife here is rich with monkeys, parrots, and even capybaras. Be sure to visit Ilha Grande if you want to experience an unspoiled paradise.

Fernando de Noronha

If you plan to visit Fernando de Noronha, be sure to plan ahead as only 460 visitors are allowed each day. This archipelago consists of 21 stunning islands and is known as one of the most beautiful and relaxing places in the world.

The crystal-clear waters are teeming with fish, dolphins, and turtles, making it perfect for diving. The island also features many pristine beaches, beautiful bays, and stunning waterfalls.