natural pool · Angra dos Reis, RJ
Lagoa Azul
A shallow natural pool sheltered by islets in the north of Ilha Grande, with Caribbean-colored water so clear you can see the bottom from the boat. It's the must-stop on schooner trips around the bay.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lagoa Azul
Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon) isn't a lagoon: it's a stretch of calm, sheltered sea between the north coast of Ilha Grande and small islands, in Angra dos Reis (Rio de Janeiro). It works like a natural pool and is one of the most classic stops on the island's boat trips.
The water is clear, in shades of blue and green, and full of small fish, such as sergeant majors, that swim around anyone who gets in. The plan is to float and snorkel near the rocks, with the islands' forest all around.
You can only get there by boat. Schooners and speedboats stop there for about an hour and combine Lagoa Azul with other stops on the north side of the island, such as Lagoa Verde and Freguesia de Santana. On busy days, many boats anchor at the same time.
It's an outing with no physical effort, popular with families. If you're not a strong swimmer, stay close to the boat.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
The tour stop lasts about an hour, enough to swim and snorkel; the full boat trip, with other stops, takes the day.
Best time
Sunny days with calm seas, with the high light of late morning and early afternoon, when the water is bluest and clearest. There are fewer boats on weekdays.
How to get there
It's on the north side of Ilha Grande, between the island and small islets. You can only get there by boat: schooners and speedboats leave daily from Vila do Abraão, and there are tours from the mainland, in Angra dos Reis.
Tip
Bring your snorkel mask if you have one, and don't feed the fish.
A look at the place
Lagoa Azul in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lagoa Azul
How do I get to Lagoa Azul on Ilha Grande?
Only by boat. Schooner and speedboat tours leave from Vila do Abraão, and there are tours departing from Angra dos Reis, on the mainland.
Can I see fish at Lagoa Azul?
Yes. The water is clear and full of small fish, such as sergeant majors, that swim around anyone who gets in. A snorkel mask helps.
How long does the boat stay at Lagoa Azul?
Usually about an hour. The full trip has other stops and takes a good part of the day.
Is there an entrance fee for Lagoa Azul?
There's no entrance fee. You pay for the boat trip that takes you there.
Is Lagoa Azul good for kids?
Yes, the sea is calm and the trip requires no effort. Non-swimmers should stay near the boat and with an adult.