Ilhabela

Brazil, Brazil

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Ilhabela is a lush island and municipality in the North Coast of São Paulo State, Brazil, located just off the mainland opposite the town of São Sebastião.

Known as the “beautiful island” in Portuguese, it is one of the country’s largest maritime islands and sits within the Atlantic Forest biome, giving it dense rainforest, jagged coastal mountains, and rich biodiversity. The island is famous for its almost 40 kilometres of mostly pristine beaches and coves with clear turquoise water, plus a network of hiking trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints that attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

It is also a popular weekend getaway for residents of São Paulo, with a relaxed, small‑town atmosphere, a modest nightlife scene along the main waterfront strip, and plenty of opportunities for boating, diving, and surfing along its scenic Atlantic coastline.