beach · Ilhabela, SP
Praia do Bonete
In the south of the island, it is reached by boat or by a long trail in the Parque Estadual de Ilhabela that passes the Laje, Areado and Saquinho waterfalls. It is home to a traditional caiçara (coastal) community and has waves sought after by surfers.
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 Praia do Bonete
Praia do Bonete (beach) is in the south of Ilhabela, on the side of the island facing the open sea, far from any road. It is one of the most beautiful beaches on the São Paulo coast and is home to the island's largest caiçara (traditional coastal) community, a fishing village that keeps the pace and traditions of the old days.
The beach is long, with light sand, a row of trees at the back and the open sea in front. With a south wind, the waves build and draw surfers. The village has simple pousadas (guesthouses), campsites and caiçara houses for rent, and power is limited: do not expect the comforts of the inner side of the island.
There are two ways to get there. By boat, leaving from Praia do Perequê, the trip takes about 40 minutes along the southern coast of the island. On foot, the trail starts at Ponta da Sepituba, where the pavement ends, and crosses the forest of the Parque Estadual de Ilhabela, passing waterfalls such as Laje and Areado.
The trail is long, with ups and downs, and requires fitness, proper footwear and water. It is not suitable for people with limited mobility; in that case, the boat is the way to go.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
By boat, a full day lets you enjoy the beach and the village; on the trail, it is best to spend the night and return the next day.
Best time
From late spring to early fall, with a calmer sea for the boat crossing and long days for the trail. Surfers prefer days with a south wind, when the waves build. Avoid the trail after heavy rain, when the ground gets slippery.
How to get there
It is at the far south of Ilhabela, with no road access. By boat, tours and boatmen leave from Praia do Perequê, near the ferry, and take about 40 minutes. On foot, go by car or bus to Ponta da Sepituba, at the end of the paved road on the south side, where the trail through the Parque Estadual de Ilhabela begins.
Tip
On the trail, leave early and go with an environmental guide if you do not know the way; that way you can stop at the waterfalls without worrying about arriving after dark.
A look at the place
Praia do Bonete 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 Praia do Bonete
How do you get to Praia do Bonete?
Only by boat or on foot. The boat leaves from Praia do Perequê and takes about 40 minutes. The trail starts at Ponta da Sepituba, at the end of the paved road in the south of the island, and crosses the Parque Estadual de Ilhabela.
How long does the Bonete trail take?
3 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and stops at the waterfalls. It is a long trail, with ups and downs, that requires fitness.
Do I need a guide for the Bonete trail?
Going with an environmental guide is recommended, especially if you do not know the way.
Can you stay overnight in Bonete?
Yes. The village has simple pousadas (guesthouses), campsites and caiçara houses for rent, with basic facilities.
Is Bonete good for surfing?
Yes. The beach faces the open sea and, with a south wind, the waves build a lot and draw surfers. On those days, take care when swimming.