Ilha Grande

Brazil

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Ilha Grande, Brazil

Brazil’s third largest island, famed for its tropical scenery and gorgeous beaches, has an unusual history. It was once a leper colony and later a prison. Today the entire island is a protected area and is home to a tiny beachfront town, Vila do Abraão, where cars are banned. With fine-grain sand and clear turquoise waters, the two-mile-long Lopes Mendes Beach is virtually a postcard. Another picture-album sight is Abraão Cove, considered the most beautiful bay on the island.

What you NEED TO KNOW

  • Port Name & Location
    Port of Ilha Grande. Ship will ANCHOR OFF SHORE at this port.
  • Time Zone
    Brasilia Standard Time
    UTC/GMT-3
  • Language
    Portuguese is the local language spoken in Ilha Grande. To ask how someone is doing, say “Como vai você?” “Olá” is hello while “adeus” is goodbye and “por favor” means please.
  • Currency & Shopping
    Local currency used in Ilha Grande for shopping is the Brazilian Real. There is a scattering of shops in the towns to buy souvenirs like hammocks and flip flops, which almost seem like an island dress code, and will remind you of that easy island livin’.
    • Famous For
      Ilha Grande possesses an infamous past, but now is a star attraction due to its lush unspoiled landscape, rich biodiversity and beautiful beaches.
    • Fun Fact #1
      Dois Rios – where two rivers flow into the Atlantic – is now a popular beach, but the locale was once the site of a prison that was shut down in 1994. You can tour the small museum located at the ruins.
    • Fun Fact: Foodies
      Seafood enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of locally caught seafood dishes, including moqueca baiana – a popular seafood stew that usually includes shrimp and white fish combined with coconut milk, palm oil and various spices and vegetables.
    • Fun Fact: Landmarks
      Vogue named Praia Lopes Mendes one of the world’s most beautiful beaches and it’s easy to see why with its remote setting and seemingly endless sand situated between jungle and azure waters.
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