Yachting destination

Ilha Grande

South America Costa Verde / Ilha Grande Bay Brazil Brazilian Coast / Costa Verde December to March ★ 2 Star Superyacht Guide Destination Award

Superyacht Guide Award

Superyacht Guide Destination Star

★★☆☆☆

2 Stars - Good yachting destination

Preliminary Superyacht Guide destination note pending full editorial assessment. Ilha Grande has recognised yachting merit but has not yet been assessed for a higher Destination Star rating.

Preliminary Listing Central and South America Editorial Review Pending

Last reviewed: May 10, 2026

Destination Stars are editorial ratings based on cruising appeal, marina access, hospitality, scenery, events, seasonality and available information.

Ilha Grande is a natural Brazilian yacht destination with rainforest, beaches, anchorages and Costa Verde island cruising appeal.

Ilha Grande is one of Brazil’s most beautiful island cruising destinations, located in the Costa Verde region near Angra dos Reis. It is known for beaches, rainforest, trails, anchorages and a largely natural atmosphere.

For yachts, Ilha Grande offers swimming, tender exploration, beach landings, hiking, diving and relaxed anchorage-based itineraries. Lopes Mendes is one of the island’s best-known beaches, while the surrounding bay offers numerous sheltered options.

The island is best experienced by yacht because many of its highlights are coastal, natural and reached most easily by water. Conservation awareness and local anchorage planning are important.

Superyacht highlights

  • Brazilian island cruising highlight
  • Rainforest, beaches and natural anchorages
  • Lopes Mendes and Costa Verde scenery
  • Excellent tender, hiking and swimming itineraries
  • Strong combination with Angra dos Reis and Paraty

Destination details

Region South America
Local region / area Costa Verde / Ilha Grande Bay
Country Brazil
City / main area Ilha Grande
Destination type Natural island cruising destination
Cruising area Brazilian Coast / Costa Verde
Best season December to March
Best time to visit Brazilian summer is the most active yacht season.
Season Southern Hemisphere summer season
Charter appeal High natural appeal

Access and berthing

Nearest airport Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG)
Airport access

Access is commonly via Rio de Janeiro and Angra dos Reis.

Marina access

Ilha Grande is anchorage-led, with yacht services based around nearby Angra.

Superyacht berthing

Anchorage and tender planning are central to visits.

Hospitality and attractions

Luxury hotels

Boutique island pousadas; Angra dos Reis luxury hotels and villas nearby

Restaurants

Island beach restaurants, Abraão village dining and yacht-based hospitality

Attractions

Lopes Mendes; Abraão; rainforest trails; beaches; diving; Ilha Grande Bay

Events

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