Praia de Castelhanos: Ilhabela's Heart-Shaped Paradise

Discover Praia de Castelhanos in Ilhabela: a secluded, heart-shaped beach paradise offering adventure, natural beauty, and tranquility.

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Ilha Grande
Praia de Castelhanos

Praia de Castelhanos, a remote beach on the eastern side of Ilhabela, is renowned for its natural beauty and unique heart shape. Accessible by 4x4, boat, or a challenging hike, it offers a tranquil escape surrounded by lush Atlantic rainforest.

A brief summary to Praia de Castelhanos

Parque da Ilha Grande - Avenida Nacib Monteiro de Queiroz, s/nº Vila do Abraão, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR

Local tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking, especially during peak season.
A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for driving to the beach due to the unpaved and often rough road conditions.
Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent in the forested areas.
Check the tide schedule before your visit to ensure the best conditions for swimming and snorkeling.
Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike to Cachoeira do Gato or explore the trails.

Getting There

4x4 Vehicle

From Vila do Abraão, take the ferry to Ilhabela (approx. R$20 per vehicle). Follow the signs to Praia de Castelhanos, noting that the 15km road is unpaved and requires a 4x4. Drive time is approximately 2 hours. Be aware of the controlled traffic: entry towards Castelhanos is permitted from 7am to 2pm, and return towards the center from 3pm to 5pm. There is a limited number of vehicles allowed per day: 65 jeeps, 42 private cars, and 60 motorcycles. Parking is mandatory at the Praia de Castelhanos parking area. From there, a short walk leads to the beach.
Boat

From Vila do Abraão, several agencies offer boat tours to Praia de Castelhanos, often combined with stops at other beaches. The boat trip typically takes about 30 minutes. Expect to pay around R$50-100 per person, depending on the company and the season. Confirm the return time with the boat operator.
Hiking

The hike to Castelhanos begins on the north side of Ilhabela and requires a good level of physical fitness. The trail can take 4-6 hours. Start early in the morning and bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the way. Be prepared for a challenging trek through dense forest. Alternatively, hike from Bonete Beach to Castelhanos. This trek passes 4 beaches before arriving in Castelhanos. It is 18km and takes around 6.5 hours.

Discover more about Praia de Castelhanos

Praia de Castelhanos, nestled within Ilhabela State Park, is a captivating destination celebrated for its secluded charm and distinctive heart shape. This stunning beach, facing the open Atlantic, boasts crystal-clear waters and soft, golden sands, making it a favorite among those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The beach's relative isolation contributes to its allure. Accessible primarily by 4x4 vehicles via a 15km unpaved road through the dense Atlantic Forest, by boat, or a challenging hiking trail, the journey to Castelhanos is an adventure in itself. The unpaved road winds through the lush greenery of Ilhabela State Park, offering glimpses of waterfalls and diverse flora and fauna. For those who prefer a less rugged approach, boat tours provide a scenic alternative, often stopping at other idyllic beaches along the way. Once you arrive, Praia de Castelhanos offers a variety of activities. Relax on the beach, swim in the refreshing ocean, or explore the vibrant marine life while snorkeling. Hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints and the impressive Cachoeira do Gato (Cat Waterfall), one of the island's tallest waterfalls. The local caiçara community maintains kiosks and restaurants, offering fresh seafood and a taste of coastal culture. Be sure to try the local drink made with tangerine leaves and cachaça. Historically, the bay of Castelhanos was a landing point for illegal slave ships. Today, the trail that once transported slaves across the island is the main access to the beach. The name Castelhanos (Castilians) is said to originate from a ship wreck where the castaways washed ashore.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ilha Grande Hiking

6.6 km

Discover the adventure and natural beauty of Ilha Grande, Brazil's ultimate hiking and outdoor paradise.

EU S2 ILHA GRANDE

6.7 km

Discover Ilha Grande: Pristine beaches, lush trails, and a rich history await on this breathtaking Brazilian island paradise.

Achaia Cave

27.0 km

Discover the magical Achaia Cave on Ilha Grande: a hidden grotto illuminated by turquoise, shimmering light.

Conceição Beach

53.2 km

Discover tranquility at Conceição Beach in Angra dos Reis: Calm waters, golden sands, and easy access to local amenities await.

Sítio Roberto Burle Marx - IPHAN

59.5 km

Discover the enchanting Sítio Roberto Burle Marx, a stunning cultural center and park in Rio de Janeiro, showcasing the brilliance of landscape artistry and rich biodiversity.

Grumari Beach

60.8 km

Discover Grumari Beach: A tranquil escape offering natural beauty, surfing, and hiking in Rio de Janeiro's protected west zone.

Bocaina Mountain Range National Park

62.0 km

Discover Brazil's natural beauty at Bocaina Mountain Range National Park: hiking, waterfalls, history, and diverse wildlife await!

Mirante do Roncador

63.8 km

Discover panoramic ocean views and serene beaches at Mirante do Roncador, a must-visit destination in Rio de Janeiro's Recreio dos Bandeirantes.

Pedra do Roncador

64.2 km

Discover Pedra do Roncador in Rio de Janeiro: Hike to panoramic views, explore coastal beauty, and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.

Tour Rio De Janeiro

73.2 km

Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking sights of Rio de Janeiro with personalized tours from Tour Rio De Janeiro, your local travel experts.

Rio de Janeiro Brazil Temple

74.6 km

A sacred space in Rio de Janeiro, the Brazil Temple is a beacon of faith and architectural harmony in Barra da Tijuca.

Praça Roncador

75.4 km

Discover the vibrant charm of Praça Roncador, the heart of Padre Miguel, where local culture and community come together in beautiful Rio de Janeiro.

Morro Dois Irmãos

76.2 km

Hike through a favela to reach Rio's iconic twin peaks, Morro Dois Irmãos, for unmatched panoramic views of the city and coastline.

KITESOUL

79.4 km

KITESOUL: Premier kitesurfing school in Barra da Tijuca, where adventure meets the breathtaking beauty of Rio de Janeiro's coastline.

Brazil Adventure Tours

84.1 km

Discover the beauty of Brazil with expert-led tours that unveil the country's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Unmissable attractions to see

Praia de Jurubá

1.3 km

Discover Praia de Jurubá, a serene and secluded beach on Ilha Grande, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Farol Castelhanos-ilha Grande

1.5 km

Discover Farol Castelhanos on Ilha Grande: a historic lighthouse offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a glimpse into Brazil's maritime past.

Praia de Arrecifes

1.9 km

Discover Praia de Arrecifes in Angra dos Reis: a serene beach escape with turquoise waters and golden sands, perfect for nature lovers.

Boia de Lopes Mendes

2.0 km

Discover Lopes Mendes Beach, Ilha Grande: a pristine paradise with crystal-clear waters, perfect waves, and untouched natural beauty.

Lopes Mendes - Ilha Grande

2.2 km

Discover Lopes Mendes, a breathtaking beach on Ilha Grande with pristine sands, clear waters, and lush surroundings, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Praia da Aroeira

2.3 km

Experience the tranquil beauty of Praia da Aroeira, a hidden beach paradise in Rio de Janeiro perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.

Ilha das Palmas

2.8 km

Explore Ilha das Palmas, a tranquil island in Angra dos Reis, offering pristine beaches, lush scenery, and vibrant marine life for every traveler.

Lopes Mendes Beach

3.3 km

Experience the stunning beauty of Lopes Mendes Beach, a hidden paradise in Rio de Janeiro, where soft sands meet azure waters amidst lush landscapes.

Pouso Beach

3.3 km

Discover the serene beauty of Pouso Beach, a hidden gem in Rio de Janeiro, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.

Mangrove Beach

3.5 km

Explore the pristine beauty of Mangrove Beach in Angra dos Reis, a tranquil paradise with crystal-clear waters and lush mangroves perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Praia de Mangues

3.6 km

Explore the serene beauty of Praia de Mangues in Rio de Janeiro, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable beach experience.

Santo Antônio Beach

3.9 km

Discover the serene beauty of Santo Antônio Beach, a hidden paradise in Abraão, Rio de Janeiro, perfect for relaxation and water sports.

Praia Palmas

4.0 km

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Praia Palmas, a stunning public beach on Ilha Grande, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Praia de Palmas

4.0 km

Discover the serene beauty of Praia de Palmas, a hidden beach paradise in Angra dos Reis, Brazil, where tranquility meets stunning natural landscapes.

Beach Praia Grande das Palmas

4.0 km

Experience the serene beauty of Beach Praia Grande das Palmas in Rio de Janeiro, a tranquil paradise for relaxation, adventure, and stunning sunsets.

Experience authentic Brazilian seafood at Restaurante Rei da Moqueca—where every dish tells a story of Angra dos Reis' rich maritime culture.

Canoa Café Bar e Lounge

6.6 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Canoa Café Bar e Lounge in Vila do Abraão, where delicious food meets stunning coastal views.

O Pescador

6.6 km

Discover authentic Brazilian coastal cuisine at O Pescador, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views in Vila do Abraão.

Lady Roots House

6.6 km

Experience family-friendly hospitality at Lady Roots House; enjoy local cuisine and unforgettable tours in beautiful Angra dos Reis.

Bar e Restaurante Banana da Terra

6.7 km

Experience exquisite local flavors at Bar e Restaurante Banana da Terra in Vila do Abraão - a must-visit dining destination in Angra dos Reis.

Kiosk Bistrô

6.7 km

Experience authentic Brazilian flavors at Kiosk Bistrô in Vila do Abraão, where stunning waterfront views meet delightful culinary creations.

Bougainville restaurante

6.7 km

Discover exquisite Brazilian flavors at Bougainville Restaurante, nestled within Ilha Grande State Park's stunning natural beauty.

Explore C.A.S - Lembrança em Azulejo in Angra dos Reis: Your destination for unique Brazilian souvenirs and traditional crafts.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar Aperitivo

5.6 km

Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Bar Aperitivo, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of Angra dos Reis.

Bar do Che Ilha Grande

6.1 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar do Che Ilha Grande, where delicious cocktails meet live music in a stunning island setting.

Pit Stop Drinks Ilha Grande

6.5 km

6.8 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Point do Mineiro e CIA, a local bar in Angra dos Reis offering delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Resenhas Bar Petiscaria

6.8 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Resenhas Bar Petiscaria, where tradition meets coastal charm in Angra dos Reis.

BAR'S DELEGATE

16.8 km

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Bacanas Bar flutuante

18.3 km

Discover Bacanas Bar Flutuante in Angra dos Reis - a floating bar serving delicious Brazilian cuisine with breathtaking views of Ilha Grande.

D' Boa Bar e Restaurante

19.8 km

Experience the best of Brazilian cuisine and vibrant nightlife at D' Boa Bar e Restaurante, a top destination in Angra dos Reis.

Aloha restaurante/bar

22.8 km

Discover Aloha Restaurante/Bar in Ilha Grande for exquisite cocktails and fresh seafood with stunning ocean views.

Ticão Bar

24.8 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Ticão Bar, the perfect spot to unwind in Angra dos Reis, Brazil.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Praia de Castelhanos: Ilhabela's Heart-Shaped Paradise

A brief summary to Praia de Castelhanos

Local tips

Getting There

4x4 Vehicle

Boat

Hiking

Unlock the Best of Praia de Castelhanos

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Praia de Castelhanos

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ilha Grande Hiking

EU S2 ILHA GRANDE

Achaia Cave

Conceição Beach

Sítio Roberto Burle Marx - IPHAN

Grumari Beach

Bocaina Mountain Range National Park

Mirante do Roncador

Pedra do Roncador

Tour Rio De Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Brazil Temple

Praça Roncador

Morro Dois Irmãos

KITESOUL

Brazil Adventure Tours

Unmissable attractions to see

Praia de Jurubá

Farol Castelhanos-ilha Grande

Praia de Arrecifes

Boia de Lopes Mendes

Lopes Mendes - Ilha Grande

Praia da Aroeira

Ilha das Palmas

Lopes Mendes Beach

Pouso Beach

Mangrove Beach

Praia de Mangues

Santo Antônio Beach

Praia Palmas

Praia de Palmas

Beach Praia Grande das Palmas

Essential places to dine

Bonito Bar e Restaurante

L'île Restaurante

Júlia Surtô

Steak 'n Beach

Bar e Restaurante Lua e Mar

Las Sorrentinas

Restaurante Pé na Areia

Lonier Garoupas

Restaurante Rei da Moqueca

Canoa Café Bar e Lounge

O Pescador

Lady Roots House

Bar e Restaurante Banana da Terra

Kiosk Bistrô

Bougainville restaurante

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Ateliê Simona Beach

Arubinha Ilha Grande

FNCY ILHA GRANDE

Vila Digital - Ilha Grande

Cachaçarilha Bebidas Artesanais

Trilha da Ilha Moda e Turismo

Mar de Lopes

Amor e Arte Tabacaria e Barbearia

A.M.C. Marlin

Mabela Atelie

Cheiro da Ilha - Aromatizadores Artesanais e Macramé

Loja Canto do Mar

Havaianas Mini Shopping Bouganville Ilha Grande - Angra dos Reis

Empório Ilha Grande Cachaça & Arte

C.A.S- Lembrança em azulejo

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar Aperitivo

Bar do Che Ilha Grande

Pit Stop Drinks Ilha Grande