island · Mangaratiba, RJ
Ilha de Itacuruçá
Located in the Baía de Sepetiba, across from the district of Itacuruçá, it's the destination of the schooner and saveiro trips leaving from the pier. It has several calm-water beaches linked by trails, including Praia Grande and Praia Brava.
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 Ilha de Itacuruçá
Ilha de Itacuruçá is in the Baía de Sepetiba, between Mangaratiba and Itaguaí, right across from the district of Itacuruçá. It's a large island, about 26 km around, covered in Atlantic Forest and home to caiçaras and fishermen. You can only get there by boat.
The island has several calm-water beaches. Praia das Flexeiras is the closest to the mainland pier. Praia Grande is the busiest, with a long stretch of sand, bars and restaurants. Prainha, with no vendors and surrounded by forest, is a common stop on the schooner trips from Itacuruçá. On the side facing Ilha da Madeira, in Itaguaí, is Praia de Águas Lindas, where most of the pousadas are. There are also more rustic beaches, such as Maria Russa, do Boi and Sapioeira.
Trails link the beaches and go around much of the island, passing residents' homes and almost deserted beaches. The path from Praia das Flexeiras to Praia Grande follows the shoreline and is easy. The longer loop, however, has steep ups and downs and requires fitness.
It's a good outing for families who want a calm-water beach near Rio, and also for those who like walking. Facilities on the island are basic: bring cash, water and sunscreen.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A full day to enjoy one or two beaches; if you want to hike the longer trails, you can stay overnight at one of the pousadas.
Best time
On sunny days in summer and spring, in the morning, when the sea is usually calmer and the boats start crossing.
How to get there
By car or bus along the Rio-Santos highway (BR-101) to the district of Itacuruçá, in Mangaratiba. Water taxis leave the Itacuruçá pier for the island's beaches; another option is to cross from Ilha da Madeira, in Itaguaí, to Praia de Águas Lindas.
Tip
Agree on a return time with the boatman before you get off and bring cash, because facilities on the island are basic.
A look at the place
Ilha de Itacuruçá 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 Ilha de Itacuruçá
How do I get to Ilha de Itacuruçá?
Only by boat. Boats leave from the Itacuruçá pier, in Mangaratiba, and take you to the island's beaches on a short crossing. There are also boats from Ilha da Madeira, in Itaguaí, to Praia de Águas Lindas.
What's the best beach on Ilha de Itacuruçá?
Praia Grande is the most popular, with a long stretch of sand and bars. If you prefer peace and quiet, Prainha is surrounded by forest and has no vendors.
Are there facilities on the island?
There are bars and restaurants at Praia Grande and pousadas at Praia de Águas Lindas. Otherwise, facilities are basic, so bring cash, water and sunscreen.
Can I hike on Ilha de Itacuruçá?
Yes. Trails link the beaches and go around much of the island. The stretch between Praia das Flexeiras and Praia Grande is easy; the longer loop has steep sections.
Does the schooner trip stop at the island?
Schooner trips from the Itacuruçá pier usually include Prainha on Ilha de Itacuruçá among their swimming stops. Check the route with the operator.