Full Day Around the Island of Ilha Grande and Its Beaches

Experience the Best of Ilha Grande’s Secluded Shores on a Full Day Speedboat Tour

Imagine cruising along the sparsely populated southern coast of Ilha Grande on a comfortable speedboat, with the wind in your hair and stunning views all around. For around 8 hours, this tour takes you to five remote beaches—places most visitors miss—where you can swim, snorkel, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. At $86 per person, it offers a good mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to explore Caxadaco, Parnaioca, Aventureiro, Meros, and Maguariquessaba—each with its own unique charm and fewer crowds. The snorkeling options at Meros and Maguariquessaba are particularly appealing if you’re eager to see colorful fish and turtles in their natural habitat. The inclusion of safety gear, floating devices, and water makes it easy to enjoy the water without hassle.

The one thing to keep in mind is that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat at the last stop. Also, weather conditions can affect the departure time or route, so flexibility is key. This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, off-the-beaten-path beaches, and a relaxed, nature-focused day. If you’re comfortable with a group setting and enjoy snorkeling, this could be a memorable day out.

Key Points

• Secluded Beaches: Experience five quiet, less-visited beaches perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Snorkeling Fun: The snorkeling stops at Meros and Maguariquessaba offer colorful underwater life.
• Scenic Cruising: Enjoy beautiful views between stops from aboard a comfortable speedboat.
• Flexible Timing & Safety: Equipment provided, with safety instructions and flexible schedule based on weather.
• Bring Your Own Food: No included meals, so pack snacks or plan to dine at the last stop.
• Group Size & Cost: Limited to 34 travelers, offering a more intimate experience for the price.

A Deep Dive into the Ilha Grande Speedboat Experience

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Offers

This full-day tour whisks you around the southern coast of Ilha Grande on a speedboat, starting early from Vila do Abraão. The departure at 9:30 a.m. is conveniently arranged near the port, and you’re encouraged to arrive 10 minutes early. From the start, the focus is on exploring hidden beaches and enjoying the tropical scenery from the water, which is a different perspective than hiking or land-based tours.

The speedboat itself is described as comfortable, with safety equipment, floating devices, and even a cooler with water supplied for your refreshment. An English or Portuguese-speaking guide is present to keep you informed, which helps if you’re curious about the islands or safety procedures.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Caxadaco Beach

Your adventure begins at Caxadaco, a tiny, 15-meter-long beach with emerald waters. It’s far enough off the beaten path that you’ll likely have it almost to yourself. The highlight here is climbing on the nearby rocks for a panoramic view of Lopes Mendes, another famous beach. This stop lasts about 40 minutes, just enough time to snap a few photos, swim, or relax.

Parnaioca Beach

Next, the boat heads to Parnaioca, a large beach with a lagoon formed by a river flowing into the sea. This spot is ideal for renewing your energy, as the lagoon makes for calm, shallow waters perfect for wading or paddling. You’ll spend about 45 minutes here, giving you enough time to explore, swim, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Aventureiro Beach

Perhaps the most iconic stop is Aventureiro, recognizable by its lying coconut palm, a postcard-worthy scene. This beach is famous for its relaxed vibe and natural beauty. We loved the way relaxing under its fronds felt like stepping into paradise. This stop is about 40 minutes, enough to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings.

Meros Beach

Meros is celebrated for its excellent snorkeling. Here, you can expect to see corals, tropical fish, turtles, and starfish—a true natural aquarium. The clarity of the water and vibrant marine life make this a highlight for water lovers.

Maguariquessaba Beach

The final stop at Maguariquessaba offers a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for a last swim or simply unwinding. It’s also a good place to look out for turtles around the pier. Many travelers enjoy the sunset here if timing allows. Optional lunch can be purchased nearby, but it’s not included in the tour.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Insights

A reviewer mentioned that “Praias paradisíacas”, or paradise beaches, make the tour worthwhile, especially noting the blue lagoon and the opportunity for water photos—even if the quality of those photos can sometimes be hit or miss. Others appreciated the good value for the price, especially considering the scenic vistas and snorkeling options.

However, some travelers express caution regarding the type of boat and licensing. One reviewer warned, “Vorsicht: Boote und Kapitäne ohne Genehmigung!”, indicating that not all boats may have proper licensing, which underscores the importance of booking through reputable providers like Gray Line Brazil.

The Practical Side: What It Means for You

The duration at each stop (40-60 minutes) strikes a good balance—enough time to relax, swim, and explore without feeling rushed. The group size, limited to 34 travelers, fosters a more intimate atmosphere, and the cost is reasonable for a full day of water-based exploration.

The snorkeling gear, available for rent for around 20 BRL, is a good option if you don’t bring your own. The water and safety equipment provided help ensure a safe, worry-free outing. Remember, lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or a picnic is wise, especially if you want to avoid extra expenses or enjoy a quiet moment at the last beach.

Weather and Flexibility

As with all outdoor activities in Brazil, weather can influence the trip. Tours are scheduled to adapt to tides and weather conditions, and cancellations are possible if the sea gets too rough. The full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind, but last-minute changes are a real possibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers who enjoy boat rides, snorkeling, and discovering quiet beaches away from crowds. It’s particularly well-suited for those wanting to see Ilha Grande’s natural beauty from the water and who don’t mind a flexible schedule based on weather. If you’re after relaxing on a sandy stretch, enjoying marine life, or capturing amazing photos, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

For those craving a full day of scenic cruising and beach hopping in Ilha Grande, this tour offers solid value and genuine adventure. The secluded beaches and snorkeling opportunities are enough to make it memorable, especially if you’re keen on avoiding the more crowded, touristy spots. The small group size and safety gear add to the comfort and peace of mind, and the flexible itinerary means you’re likely to see some of the best spots depending on weather conditions.

However, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, and the quality of water photos might vary. If you’re looking for a more structured or luxury experience, you might want to explore other options. But if authentic, off-the-radar beaches topped with snorkeling and scenic views sound appealing, this trip hits the mark.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 a.m. and returning around 5:30 p.m., with about 40-60 minutes at each stop.

What beaches are visited on this tour?
You will visit Caxadaco, Parnaioca, Aventureiro, Meros, and Maguariquessaba, each offering unique scenery, swimming, and snorkeling.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling equipment is not included but can be rented for around 20 BRL. The snorkeling stops at Meros and Maguariquessaba are highlights for marine life.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, lunch is not included, so bringing snacks, fruits, or biscuits is recommended. You can also buy meals at the last stop.

What should I wear?
Wear light clothes and swimsuits, and bring a towel and coat for cooler moments or after swimming.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Generally, yes—especially since floating devices and safety gear are provided. However, children should be comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour caps at 34 travelers, making it relatively intimate.

What are the reviews saying?
While some find the beaches paradisiacal, others warn about boat licensing issues. Travelers mention beautiful scenery and snorkeling, making it a worthwhile day for explorers.

In the end, this speedboat tour offers an excellent way to see parts of Ilha Grande that most visitors never reach. From quiet beaches and snorkeling to scenic views and relaxing boat rides, you’ll be immersed in the island’s natural beauty. It’s a fitting choice for those who prioritize authentic experiences, enjoy water adventures, and are ready to explore beyond the crowds.