Ilha das Cabras
A protected island sanctuary off Ilhabela, offering crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving amidst vibrant marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear waters, calm seas
Ilha das Cabras
Best Time
Clear waters, calm seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A protected island sanctuary off Ilhabela, offering crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving amidst vibrant marine life.
"This island is a true underwater paradise, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying nature's beauty!"
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it to fully explore the vibrant marine life around the island.
🚤 Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Ilha das Cabras by booking in advance, especially during peak season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Underwater Sanctuary
Ilha das Cabras
Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish and sea turtles. A true underwater paradise!
Pristine Beaches
Praia das Pedras Miúdas
Relax on soft white sand with calm, pool-like waters. Perfect for a tranquil day by the sea.
Scenic Boat Tours
Departing from Ilhabela
Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and the journey to this island gem on a scenic boat trip.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit Ilha das Cabras
Getting to Ilha das Cabras
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it to fully explore the vibrant marine life around the island.
🚤 Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Ilha das Cabras by booking in advance, especially during peak season.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day out.
🌊 Check Tide Times
Some areas around the island are more accessible during low tide, offering unique exploration opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it to fully explore the vibrant marine life around the island.
🚤 Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Ilha das Cabras by booking in advance, especially during peak season.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day out.
🌊 Check Tide Times
Some areas around the island are more accessible during low tide, offering unique exploration opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ilha das Cabras, often calling it a 'natural pool' with beautiful landscapes and calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. The snorkeling and diving opportunities are frequently highlighted as exceptional, offering a chance to see vibrant marine life. Some note that it's best accessed via boat tours from Ilhabela.
"A small island just off the beach"
David S
"Top"
antonio cugiki
"Super"
Marco Pognante
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ilha das Cabras is accessible by boat tours departing from Ilhabela. Several local operators offer trips to the island, often combined with visits to other nearby beaches and attractions.
No, there are no public ferries directly to Ilha das Cabras. Access is primarily through organized boat tours or private boat rentals.
Ilhabela is reached by a car ferry from São Sebastião. From São Paulo, it's about a 3-4 hour drive to São Sebastião.
Ilha das Cabras is an island and cannot be reached by car. You will need to take a boat from Ilhabela.
Ilha das Cabras is located just off the southern coast of Ilhabela, separated by a channel of about 200 meters.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a specific entry fee for Ilha das Cabras itself, as it's a natural attraction. However, you will need to pay for a boat tour or charter to get there.
Prices for boat tours vary depending on the operator and the duration of the trip. Expect to pay anywhere from R$100 to R$300 per person.
The area around Ilha das Cabras is a recognized Ecological Sanctuary, but there are typically no direct entrance fees for visitors accessing it via boat tours.
While you can technically swim or kayak to the island if conditions are favorable and you are a strong swimmer, organized boat tours are the most common and recommended way to visit.
Tours usually include boat transportation, stops for swimming and snorkeling, and sometimes basic equipment rental. 
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The main activities are snorkeling and diving due to the rich marine life. You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery and relax by the water.
Yes, Ilha das Cabras is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, with clear waters and abundant marine biodiversity.
Expect to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and various other marine creatures in the protected waters.
Yes, families can enjoy the calm waters and the opportunity to introduce children to marine life through snorkeling.
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, and any personal snorkeling gear if you have it.
📸 📸 Photography
The underwater scenes while snorkeling or diving offer incredible photo opportunities. The surrounding coastline and the island itself also provide beautiful vistas.
Yes, with a waterproof camera or phone case, you can capture stunning images of the marine life and clear waters.
Mid-morning to early afternoon usually offers the best light for both underwater and landscape photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
The combination of clear turquoise waters, lush green island vegetation, and the vibrant marine life makes it a photographer's dream.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opt for boat tours that are family-friendly and ensure they provide life vests for all ages. Packing plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection is essential for a comfortable day out. The ease of access from Ilhabela makes it a convenient day trip for families staying on the island.
🐠 Eco-Conscious Travelers
Choosing tour operators who prioritize sustainable practices is also recommended. Look for companies that educate visitors about the importance of conservation and follow responsible boating guidelines. Your visit can contribute to the preservation of this beautiful underwater ecosystem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Underwater World
+1Many tour operators provide snorkeling gear as part of their packages, but bringing your own ensures a comfortable fit. The experience is often described as swimming in a natural aquarium, a truly immersive encounter with Brazil's coastal ecosystem. Remember to practice responsible tourism by not touching or disturbing the marine life.
Diving Opportunities
For certified divers, Ilha das Cabras offers a unique dive site. The submerged topography and the protected status of the area contribute to a healthy and vibrant underwater environment. It's a chance to explore a different facet of this island paradise, away from the bustling beaches.
The Charm of Ilhabela's Coastline
+1The island itself is a small, rocky outcrop, but its appeal lies in its proximity to the mainland beaches, particularly Praia das Pedras Miúdas. This beach offers calm, clear waters that are perfect for swimming and relaxing, often described as a natural pool. The combination of the island's scenic beauty and the tranquil shores of the nearby beach creates a picturesque setting.
Historical Tidbits
Interestingly, the island's name, 'Ilha das Cabras' (Goat Island), originates from a time when local inhabitants used to leave goats there. While the animals are no longer present, the name has stuck, adding a layer of local history to this natural wonder.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit