A car-free island of rainforest and famous beaches, north of Paraty. It's doable as a long day, but it truly rewards an overnight — here's how to plan either.
Ilha Grande is the Costa Verde's headline island — no cars, a village of pousadas at Abraão, trails through Atlantic forest, and beaches (Lopes Mendes above all) that top 'best in Brazil' lists. From Paraty it takes some logistics, but it's worth it.
The usual route: drive or transfer north from Paraty to Conceição de Jacareí (about 70 km, 1–1.5 hours), then take a boat across to Vila do Abraão — a fast lancha in ~20–30 minutes, or a slower, cheaper ferry/schooner. Boats also run from Angra dos Reis and Mangaratiba. Alternatively, some Paraty operators sell full-day schooner trips that fold the crossing into a guided outing.
A day trip is possible but tight: the drive plus the crossing eats into your beach time, and Lopes Mendes itself is a boat-plus-walk beyond Abraão. If you only have one day, take a guided boat tour that handles the timing. To actually feel the island — sunset in Abraão, an early start to Lopes Mendes before the crowds — stay a night or two. Many Paraty guests do a night on Ilha Grande mid-trip and return to the chalet after.
Check the boat times both ways before you go, especially the last return if you're day-tripping. Bring cash — card coverage is patchy on the island. And keep an eye on the weather: crossings can be bumpy or cancelled in strong wind. Bianca can help you weigh a day trip against an overnight and sort the logistics from the chalet.
Pick your chalet and check live dates on Airbnb, or message Bianca first — she'll help you plan transfers, tours, and the little details.