island · Caraguatatuba, SP
Ilha do Tamanduá
The largest island in the municipality has five small beaches, trails and unspoiled nature, and is visited on boat trips. Boats leave from the Mococa, Cocanha and Tabatinga beaches, just a few minutes' crossing away.
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 Tamanduá
Ilha do Tamanduá (island) is the largest island in Caraguatatuba. It lies off the northern coast of the municipality, facing the Tabatinga and Mococa beaches, covered in Atlantic Forest and surrounded by rocky shores.
There is no land access: you visit by boat, speedboat or schooner, on a short crossing from the mainland beaches. In high season and on holidays more tours are available. Facilities on the island are minimal, and the environment is well preserved.
The trip is mainly about beach and sea. The small strips of sand usually have calm, clear water, good for swimming and snorkeling among the rocks, where you see lots of fish. The rocky shores also draw anglers, and some people make the crossing by kayak.
It is a relaxed trip that appeals to families and anyone looking for peace and quiet. Since there are no services on the island, go prepared to spend a few hours in the sun.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Set aside at least half a day for the crossing, the beach and snorkeling.
Best time
On sunny days with a calm sea, from late spring to early fall, in the morning, when the water is clearer and the beaches less crowded.
How to get there
The island is on the northern coast of Caraguatatuba, near the border with Ubatuba. Go by car or city bus along the Rio-Santos highway to the Tabatinga, Cocanha or Mococa beaches; the boats, speedboats and schooners that make the crossing leave from there.
Tip
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent and a snorkel mask, wear shoes that can get wet when you land, and take all your trash back with you. Agree on the return time with the boatman before you leave.
A look at the place
Ilha do Tamanduá 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 Tamanduá
How do you get to Ilha do Tamanduá?
Only by boat. Boats, speedboats and schooners leave from the Tabatinga, Cocanha and Mococa beaches, in the north of Caraguatatuba, on a short crossing.
Is Ilha do Tamanduá the largest island in Caraguatatuba?
Yes. It is the largest island in the municipality and lies in front of the Tabatinga and Mococa beaches.
Can you snorkel at Ilha do Tamanduá?
Yes. The water is usually calm and clear, and you see lots of fish among the rocks. Bring your own mask or ask the boatman if he lends one.
Are there facilities on Ilha do Tamanduá?
Very few. There is a simple stand for food and drinks, but it is worth bringing water, snacks and sunscreen.
Do you have to pay for the trip to Ilha do Tamanduá?
Yes, the crossing is made with boatmen and tour operators, who charge for the ride. Agree on the price and return time before boarding.