Anchieta Island State Park: History and Nature Intertwined

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Discover the haunting history and stunning natural beauty of Anchieta Island, a former prison turned protected paradise off the coast of Ubatuba.

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Brazil
Litoral Norte
Beach Prison

Explore the ruins of a former prison on Anchieta Island, now a protected state park with stunning beaches, diverse trails, and rich biodiversity. Discover a unique blend of history and natural beauty just off the coast of Ubatuba.

A brief summary to Beach Prison

Ubatuba, Ubatuba, State of São Paulo, 11680-000, BR
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Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails and exploring the prison ruins.
Bring snorkeling gear to explore the natural aquarium at Praia do Engenho.
Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the island's history and ecology.
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent for protection against the sun and mosquitoes.
Check the ferry schedule in advance, as services may be limited depending on the season.

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Getting There

Boat

The primary way to reach Anchieta Island is by boat from Ubatuba. Several beaches, including Praia da Enseada, Praia das Toninhas, and Itaguá, offer boat services to the island. Typical round-trip boat fares range from R$40 to R$80 per person, depending on the type of boat and the departure point. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Note that an entrance fee of R$18 per person may be charged upon arrival at the Anchieta Island State Park. This fee contributes to the park's conservation efforts.
Public Transport

To reach the boat departure points using public transport, take a local bus from the Ubatuba city center (Terminal Rodoviário) to one of the beaches mentioned above. A single bus fare within Ubatuba costs approximately R$4 to R$5. From the bus stop, it's usually a short walk to the beach where the boats depart. Consider using ride-sharing apps or local taxis for a more direct route to the departure points, especially if you are short on time. A taxi ride from the Ubatuba city center to Praia da Enseada, for example, would cost around R$25 to R$35.
Parking

If driving to one of the beaches with boat services to Anchieta Island, be aware of parking costs. Parking near beaches like Praia da Enseada and Praia das Toninhas typically costs R$20 to R$35 per day. Parking spaces can be limited, especially during peak season (December to February) and on weekends. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. Some parking lots may offer hourly rates, but daily rates are more common. Ensure that you park in designated areas to avoid fines.

Discover more about Beach Prison

Anchieta Island, located 8 km off the coast of Ubatuba, is a captivating destination where history and nature converge. Once known as the "Brazilian Alcatraz," the island served as a prison from 1902 until its closure in 1955, following a major prisoner revolt. Today, it's a protected area as the Anchieta Island State Park, offering visitors a chance to explore the well-preserved ruins of the former prison while immersing themselves in the island's natural beauty. The island boasts seven beaches with crystal-clear waters, including Praia do Presídio and Praia do Engenho, the latter featuring a natural aquarium perfect for snorkeling. Hiking trails wind through the lush Atlantic Forest, leading to panoramic viewpoints and hidden corners of the island. Divers can explore the Underwater Trail in the Natural Aquarium, while history buffs can delve into the island's past through guided tours of the prison ruins. The prison, originally built in 1902, underwent several transformations, serving as a penal colony and later a political prison. The island itself has a rich history, inhabited by indigenous people until the 19th century. In 1952, a violent uprising led to the prison's closure, and in 1977, the island was established as a state park to protect its natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the refurbished front part of the prison, which now houses the State Park's administration, an exhibition hall, an auditorium, and a shop. The ancient cells, now in ruins, are subject to a recuperation project that will host cultural and educational activities. Anchieta Island offers a unique blend of history, nature, and sustainable tourism, making it an unmissable destination on the north coast of São Paulo.