by Mau Ramos
1 / 10

Ilha Anchieta State Park

4.7
·182 reviews·, Brazil

A former prison island transformed into a protected paradise, boasting pristine beaches, lush trails, and fascinating historical ruins.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays after 4 PM

Day-trippers leave, enjoy solitude.

CrowdLow
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by Mau Ramos

Ilha Anchieta State Park

Best Time

Weekdays after 4 PM

Day-trippers leave, enjoy solitude.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A former prison island transformed into a protected paradise, boasting pristine beaches, lush trails, and fascinating historical ruins.

4.7
(182 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful islands I've ever visited, offering both cultural and natural wonders."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Boat Tours Early

Secure your spot on boat tours to Ilha Anchieta in advance, especially during holidays.

Bring Cash

Services are limited; carry cash as card machines are not always available.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.7 · 182 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Praia das Palmas

Praia das Palmas

Southwest coast

Ubatuba's longest beach, nearly 1km of crystal-clear, shallow waters perfect for a refreshing dip.

Presídio Ruins

Presídio Ruins

Central island

Explore the fascinating remnants of Brazil's former prison, a unique historical site amidst nature.

Praia do Engenho

Praia do Engenho

East coast

Discover a natural pool and a beautiful spring, ideal for photos and a serene swim.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting to Ilha Anchieta

Access Ilha Anchieta State Park via boat tours from Ubatuba. Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Many tours depart from the main Ubatuba waterfront.

Embrace the Island Life

Ilha Anchieta is a protected park, meaning limited services. Bring cash for any purchases, as card machines are rare. Pack essentials like water, snacks, and reef-safe sunscreen. Remember, pets are not allowed.

Best Times

When
Weekdays after 4 PM
Why
Day-trippers leave, enjoy solitude.
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Warmest waters for swimming.
Crowd
High
When
Dry season (May-Sept)
Why
Pleasant weather for hiking.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

UMA ILHA PARADISÍACA☀️ . 📍A praia das Palmas é a maior da Ilha Anchieta, com quase 1km de extensão. Águas cristalinas, ideal para aquele banho de mar. Faz parte do nosso passeio para a ilha Anchieta. 📱11 98084-0017 #ubatuba #ferias #sol #paraiso #praia #partiu #passeio #turismobrasil #saopaulo #goias #valedoparaiba #piscina
@ubaboats
74.2K likes • 1.6M views

Book Boat Tours Early

Secure your spot on boat tours to Ilha Anchieta in advance, especially during holidays. TikTok+1

Bring Cash

Services are limited; carry cash as card machines are not always available. Reddit

A MAIS DESEJADA⬇️ 📸 @passeiolanchaubatuba . 📍A Praia das Palmas tem quase 1 km de águas cristalinas, rasa, ideal para se refrescar no verão. . Em nosso roteiro da Ilha Anchieta é uma das nossas paradas. . Bora conhecer? 📲11 98084-0017 . #ubatuba #viralvideos #praia #paraiso #saopaulo
@ubaboats
34.2K likes • 821.9K views
🇧🇷 Já pensou em se hospedar dentro de um dos lugares mais incríveis de Ubatuba? No Green Haven Hostel Ilha Anchieta, você vive uma experiência única: trilhas, ruínas históricas, praias de águas cristalinas e a chance de dormir no coração do Parque Estadual da Ilha Anchieta. 🏝️🌿 ✨ Uma imersão total na natureza com conforto, charme e muita história! Clique no link da bio e venha viver tudo isso c...
greenhavenhostelilhaanchieta
135 likes • 5.1K views

No Pets Allowed

Ilha Anchieta State Park is a protected area and does not permit pets. Reddit

Explore the Ruins

Don't miss the historical prison ruins; they offer a unique glimpse into the island's past. Instagram+1

No words come to my mind to describe this island. The Anchieta Island is a protected area (Ilha Anchieta State Park) located in Ubatuba municipality. It is possible to access easily by boat and is one of the largest island of São Paulo State, in Brazil. Besides the stunning views, warm water beaches and high biodiversity, the islands is a live storybook representing a little bit of Brazilian story...
debramalho
0 likes • 3.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Boat Tours Early

Secure your spot on boat tours to Ilha Anchieta in advance, especially during holidays. TikTok+1

Bring Cash

Services are limited; carry cash as card machines are not always available. Reddit

No Pets Allowed

Ilha Anchieta State Park is a protected area and does not permit pets. Reddit

Explore the Ruins

Don't miss the historical prison ruins; they offer a unique glimpse into the island's past. Instagram+1

Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect the marine ecosystem by using reef-safe sunscreen for your beach visits. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(182 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Ilha Anchieta's stunning beaches and historical significance, with many calling it a must-visit in Ubatuba. The natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and the unique experience of exploring the old prison ruins are frequently praised. However, some find the limited dining options and high prices at the island's sole restaurant to be a drawback.

"I had the pleasure of staying at Island Hostel, and it was an amazing experience! The location is absolutely perfect, with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere that made it easy to relax and unwind. The staff Camila, Bruno and the rest were incredibly friendly.
The volunteers were awesome to hangout! The hostel itself was clean, well-maintained, and had a cozy vibe that made me feel right at home. The day trip tourist will leave by 4pm and you have the whole beach for yourself."

Madeline Yeo Geok Kim

"Top"

Ronald Almeida

"Sendo bem honesta, pra mim essa ilha não foi legal não.
Não faz sentido nenhum eles não terem nenhum outro restaurante além do próprio (que inclusive eles cobram ABSURDOS em pratos super simples, como PFzão mais gourmetizado).

Não senti que eles tem uma estrutura tão bacana assim. Gostei da praia, mas também meio que só :(

A parte dos presídios é interessante, mas não tem muito além disso.

Achei ok, tem melhores, mas a ideia é interessante."

Alice Viana

What People Like

Stunning beaches
Historical ruins
Crystal-clear waters

What People Dislike

Expensive food
Limited dining

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to Ilha Anchieta State Park is exclusively by boat. Tours typically depart from Ubatuba's main waterfront. It's highly recommended to book your boat trip in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. TikTokInstagram+1

Various boat tour operators offer trips to Ilha Anchieta from Ubatuba. These tours often include stops at different beaches on the island and may offer guided walks. Contacting registered nautical sectors is advised. Instagram

No, Ilha Anchieta State Park is an island and cannot be reached by car. All access is via boat tours from the mainland Ubatuba. Instagram

The duration of the boat trip can vary depending on the departure point and sea conditions, but it's generally a relatively short journey from Ubatuba to the island. TikTok

Once on the island, transportation is primarily by foot. The park features trails connecting different beaches and historical sites. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the park itself is a protected area, you will need to pay for the boat transportation to get there. Some tours may include park entrance fees, so it's best to clarify when booking. Instagram

Ilha Anchieta State Park is generally accessible during daylight hours, as it's a natural park. However, boat tour operating hours will dictate your visiting times. TikTok

The primary cost is for the boat transport. Specific park entrance fees, if any, are usually bundled into tour packages or are minimal. Instagram

It is not possible to visit Ilha Anchieta without a boat tour, as it is an island. All visitors must arrive by sea. Instagram

Information on specific discounts for park entry is not widely available. It's best to inquire with the boat tour operators directly about any potential package deals. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the stunning beaches like Praia das Palmas, Praia do Engenho, and Praia do Presídio, as well as the historical ruins of the former prison. The island also boasts rich biodiversity. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Yes, Ilha Anchieta State Park has several hiking trails that connect its various beaches and points of interest, offering opportunities to explore the island's natural beauty. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The beaches offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Snorkeling is also a popular activity, with some areas offering good visibility for observing marine life. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, families can enjoy Ilha Anchieta. The calm, shallow waters of beaches like Praia das Palmas are great for children, and the historical aspect of the prison ruins can be educational. TikTokReddit

The park is home to various species, including coatis and diverse marine life. Keep an eye out during your hikes and beach visits. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a restaurant on the island, but some visitors find the prices to be quite high for simple dishes. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended due to limited dining options and potentially high prices on the island. Reddit

The main dining option is a single restaurant on the island. Some visitors have noted that it can be expensive. Reddit

There is a restaurant that may offer snacks and drinks, but it's safer to bring your own supplies as options can be limited. Reddit

While not explicitly designated picnic areas, the beaches offer plenty of space to set up and enjoy a meal you've brought with you. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The natural pools at Praia do Engenho are excellent for photos, as are the panoramic views from the Presídio ruins and the stunning beaches like Praia das Palmas. InstagramReddit

While visibility can vary, Ilha Anchieta offers opportunities for underwater photography, especially for those interested in marine life. Instagram

Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for landscape and beach photography. The historical ruins are also atmospheric at these times. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can be strict in protected areas. It's advisable to check with park authorities or tour operators regarding drone photography policies before your visit. Instagram

Ilha Anchieta is fantastic for nature photography, landscape shots, historical site documentation, and beach scenes. InstagramReddit

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