island · Camocim, CE
Ilha do Amor
Also called Ilha da Testa Branca, it lies across from town, on the other side of the Coreaú River, and is reached by ferry. It brings together mangroves, dunes and beaches, with views of the riverside houses, the anchored boats and the reddish cliffs.
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 do Amor
Ilha do Amor (island), also called Ilha da Testa Branca, lies right across from downtown Camocim, on Ceará's west coast, on the other side of the Coreaú River. There is no bridge: the crossing is made by boats and ferries that leave from the riverside, on a short trip.
On the other side, the scenery changes quickly. There are mangroves on the riverbank, pale sand dunes and wide beaches. In the rainy season, water collects between the dunes and forms lagoons, which draw swimmers.
One thing to do is climb the dunes and look back: from there you see the town with its riverside houses, the boats anchored near the waterfront, the reddish cliffs and the coconut groves. The sunset seen from the top of the dunes is one of the most sought-after moments.
The island is also the starting point for buggy rides across the dunes toward Tatajuba. On weekends and in high season, stalls serve fish, shrimp and crab. Walking on the soft sand of the dunes takes some effort, which can be hard for people with reduced mobility.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half a day is enough to cross the river, walk on the dunes, swim and come back at an easy pace.
Best time
In the first half of the year, after the rains, the lagoons between the dunes are fuller; in the late afternoon, the low light and the sunset show off the view of the town.
How to get there
It is on the other side of the Coreaú River, across from downtown Camocim. Boats and ferries leave from the riverside, downtown, and the crossing takes a few minutes. The ferries also carry cars and buggies.
Tip
The crossing only runs during the day; arrange your return with the boatman and don't leave it until the last crossing.
Official website
A look at the place
Ilha do Amor 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 do Amor
How do I get to Ilha do Amor in Camocim?
By boat or ferry, crossing the Coreaú River from the riverside in downtown Camocim. The crossing is short and there is no bridge.
Is there a fee to cross to Ilha do Amor?
Visiting the island is free, but the boat or ferry crossing is paid. Agree on the round-trip price before boarding.
Is Ilha do Amor the same as Ilha da Testa Branca?
Yes. Both names refer to the same place, across from town, on the other side of the Coreaú River.
When are the lagoons on Ilha do Amor full?
The lagoons form between the dunes in the rainy season and are usually fullest in the first half of the year. In the second half, they may be low or dry.
Are there facilities on the Ilha do Amor?
On weekends and in high season there are stalls with food and drinks. Outside those periods it is quiet, so bring water.