Be prepared to walk

Ilha Grande is famous for its beautiful and secluded beaches. But sometimes they are so hidden that you might need to take a boat around the island, or walk some long miles. If you're planning on spend an entire day (or more) on the island, you'll probably do both.

So, be ready to walk some nature trails. It's not like it's forest deep or hard climbing, just dirt trails. But you must carry enough water and wear some nice comfortable sneakers. And even though it's not a big or dangerous island, it's safer to always have some company. Otherwise, who's gonna carry your stuff (or yourself) if you get hurt?!

When taking one of the many boats that take tourists from one beach to another, or back to the mainland, don't forget to pack a warm coat. It's a tropical beach, alright, but it's still cold and windy out in the ocean - specially when the night is falling. And if you intend to swim in those amazing clear beaches, also pack a change of clothes, so you won't catch a cold on your way back!

Most of the island is part of national parks, but there are lots of cheap bed & breakfast, and camping sights. Also, it's a great place to go fishing, dive, and surf.

And don't forget to check out the ruins of the old prison, where many politic activists were kept alongside murderers and drug dealers, from the dawn of the "new republic" till the years of military dictatorship. The prison, called Colônia Penal Cândido Lemos, was imploded in 1994, and it's said that this mixture of "bandits" from different backgrounds that generated today's feared Rio de Janeiro favelas' (slums) gangs.