
Praia do Bonete Ilhabela
A remote paradise in Ilhabela, accessible by a challenging hike or boat trip, known for its pristine beach and traditional caiçara community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for hiking and clear views

Praia do Bonete Ilhabela
Best Time
Best for hiking and clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote paradise in Ilhabela, accessible by a challenging hike or boat trip, known for its pristine beach and traditional caiçara community.
"Beautiful! The beach is ideal for families and children. Bring your own booze and food ;)"

🥾 Hike with a Guide
The 12km trail is demanding. Consider a local guide for safety and to discover hidden spots.
🦟 Borrachudo Repellent
These biting midges are infamous! Bring strong, local repellent. They love the beach as much as you do.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hike to Bonete
Starts in Borrifos
A challenging 12km trek through Atlantic Forest, featuring waterfalls and stunning viewpoints. An adventure for nature lovers!

Natural Pool (O Tanque)
Near Praia do Bonete
A serene saltwater pool surrounded by rocks and lush vegetation, perfect for a refreshing dip.

Caiçara Community
Praia do Bonete village
Experience the traditional culture of Ilhabela's largest caiçara community, preserving rich heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Praia do Bonete
Pack Smart for Bonete
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Hike with a Guide
The 12km trail is demanding. Consider a local guide for safety and to discover hidden spots.
🦟 Borrachudo Repellent
These biting midges are infamous! Bring strong, local repellent. They love the beach as much as you do.
🎒 Pack Food & Water
Amenities are scarce. Bring your own snacks, meals, and plenty of water. Kiosks may be closed.
🚤 Boat Access Option
If hiking isn't your style, a 1-hour boat trip offers easier access to this secluded paradise.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Hike with a Guide
The 12km trail is demanding. Consider a local guide for safety and to discover hidden spots.
🦟 Borrachudo Repellent
These biting midges are infamous! Bring strong, local repellent. They love the beach as much as you do.
🎒 Pack Food & Water
Amenities are scarce. Bring your own snacks, meals, and plenty of water. Kiosks may be closed.
🚤 Boat Access Option
If hiking isn't your style, a 1-hour boat trip offers easier access to this secluded paradise.
🌊 Check the Tides
For the natural pool, visit during low tide. High tides and strong currents can be powerful.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Praia do Bonete is lauded for its stunning natural beauty, including a beautiful beach and a unique natural pool. Visitors appreciate the challenging hike and the opportunity to experience the traditional caiçara community. However, the remote access and limited amenities, such as the infrequent opening of kiosks and lack of toilets, are common drawbacks.
"Beautiful! The beach is ideal for families and children. There is even a small sweat water source where showering is possible. The time we were here (October) the bar was not open, no foods nor drinks could be bought here. Bring your own booze and food ;)
The beach is sandy and flat, ideal for children. No toilets."
Peter Toth
"It's small beach that you can only arrive by boat or ferry. It's really a small place with only one kiosk. Do not expect it to be something heavenly and isolated. On the contrary: it is always full! So, take it into consideration."
Henrique Leme Orsi
"Top"
Rafael Corrêa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Praia do Bonete is primarily accessed via a challenging 12km hike through the Atlantic Forest, starting from Borrifos in the south of Ilhabela. Alternatively, you can take a boat trip, which typically lasts about an hour. The hike is considered one of the most beautiful treks on the North Coast of São Paulo, often featuring waterfalls and viewpoints along the way.
Yes, the hike is considered intense and demanding, covering approximately 12 kilometers one way. It's recommended for experienced hikers, and many suggest going with a local guide for safety and to better appreciate the route.
No, Praia do Bonete is not accessible by car. Its remote location means you must either hike or take a boat to reach it.
Yes, boat tours are a popular and more comfortable way to reach Praia do Bonete, especially for those who prefer not to hike the long trail. These tours typically depart from various points in Ilhabela and take about an hour to reach the beach.
The hike to Praia do Bonete typically starts in Borrifos, located in the extreme south of Ilhabela.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry tickets required for Praia do Bonete itself, as it's a public beach. However, if you opt for a boat trip, you will need to pay for the tour.
The hike itself is free, but if you choose to hire a local guide, there will be a fee for their services.
Praia do Bonete is a natural attraction and is generally accessible at any time. However, for safety and comfort, visiting during daylight hours is recommended, especially if hiking.
No, the natural pool, known as 'O Tanque', is a natural feature and does not have an entrance fee. Access is free, though it's best visited during low tide.
Information on camping facilities is limited. It's advisable to check with local authorities or accommodation providers in Ilhabela beforehand if you plan to camp.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Praia do Bonete offers a chance to relax on its sandy shores, swim, explore the natural saltwater pool ('O Tanque'), and experience the unique culture of the local caiçara community. The challenging hike to get there is also a major activity for many visitors.
Based on traveler reviews, there are no public toilets available. Some mention a small freshwater source that can be used for showering, but it's best to confirm availability upon arrival.
Borrachudos are small, biting midges common in coastal areas of Brazil, including Ilhabela. They are known to be quite bothersome, so bringing a strong insect repellent is highly recommended to enjoy your time on the beach.
Yes, reviews suggest the beach is sandy and flat, making it ideal for families and children. However, the difficult access (long hike or boat trip) and limited amenities should be considered.
The natural pool, known as 'O Tanque', is a serene saltwater pool surrounded by rocks and lush vegetation. It's a beautiful spot for a refreshing swim, especially during low tide when it's most accessible.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Amenities are very limited. While there might be a kiosk, reviews indicate it's not always open and may not offer food or drinks. It's strongly advised to bring your own food and beverages for your visit.
Due to its remote location and the presence of a traditional caiçara community, there are no conventional restaurants. Visitors typically bring their own provisions.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch. If you plan to stay longer or enjoy a meal, consider bringing items that are easy to transport and consume outdoors.
While there's a mention of a freshwater source for showering, it's not explicitly stated if it's potable for drinking. It's safest to bring all your drinking water.
Yes, a picnic is a great idea given the limited food options. Just remember to pack out all your trash to keep the beach clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic coastline, the serene natural pool ('O Tanque'), the lush Atlantic Forest during the hike, and the traditional caiçara village. The views from the hiking trail are also spectacular.
Early morning or late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the natural pool offers shade and interesting textures.
There are no specific restrictions on photography for general visitors. However, always be respectful of the local community and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and landscapes. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for the natural pool and potential sea spray.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities in Ilhabela regarding drone usage in protected natural areas and near communities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
🧘♀️ Nature Lovers & Relaxation Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Paradise: Accessing Praia do Bonete
For those seeking a less strenuous route, boat trips are a popular alternative. These journeys typically take about an hour from Ilhabela and provide a different perspective of the island's coastline. The boat access is crucial for the local caiçara community, who rely on it for supplies and transport. It's important to note that the sea can be rough, so checking weather conditions is advisable.
Embracing the Local Culture: The Caiçara Community
This community plays a vital role in maintaining the pristine environment of Praia do Bonete. Their presence ensures the area remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, preserving its natural beauty and tranquility. Interacting respectfully with the community members can offer valuable insights into their sustainable practices and deep knowledge of the local ecosystem.
Nature's Wonders: Beaches, Pools, and Trails
The hiking trails leading to and around Praia do Bonete are a major draw for nature enthusiasts. Beyond the main trail, the area is dotted with waterfalls that offer opportunities for a cool dip and stunning photo opportunities. The biodiversity of the Atlantic Forest surrounding the beach is remarkable, making any exploration a rewarding experience for those who appreciate nature's raw beauty.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit