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ILHA GRANDE
Calling Code: +55
Rios beaches sizzle, but when Brazilians want the escape that only an island can offer, they
go to Ilha Grande. The 119-square-mile slice of paradise is home to 106 beaches, 500 full-time residents, and no cars (theyre banned).
Bring good walking shoes or be prepared to paddle a kayak, which are the only ways to find some of the best beaches and coves. Surfers
are wowed by the waves at Lopes Mendes and other beaches, divers love the caverns and crystal clear waters in every direction, and
hikers keep busy with scores of trails, such as the one that ascends 3,200 feet to the islands best lookout, Pico do Papagaio
(Parrots Peak).
Until a decade ago, the only visitors to the island came in shackles. Ilha Grande served as a penal colony until 1994, so tourism is
relatively new; theres little chance of finding resort chains renting wave runners. Abrao, the main hub, consists of a few souvenir
shops and cafs.
If there's a place you've stayed or something you've done, but we haven't listed, review it for us!
If you know of a great destination we're missing,
review it for us!!
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