Islands of Brazil

The Islands of Brazil: Natural beauty and must-see destinations

Brazil, with its extensive coastline of more than 8,000 kilometres, is home to several paradise islands, many of them unspoilt and full of natural secrets.

From continental islands to distant oceanic formations, the country offers options for all traveller profiles.

Types of islands

An island is any piece of land surrounded by water. In Brazil they are classified as

1. continental islands

They are close to the mainland and share the same geological base, being part of the extension of the continental territory.

The separation is usually due to natural processes such as erosion and sea-level changes.

Examples: Ilhabela (SP), Ilha Grande (RJ), Santa Catarina Island (SC).

2. Oceanic islands

With no direct connection to the mainland, they are formed by distinct geological formations such as volcanic eruptions or coral reefs.

  • Volcanic islands: formed by cooled lava.
  • Coral islands: Formed by the accumulation of coral.

Examples: Fernando de Noronha (PE), Atol das Rocas (RN), Trindade and Martim Vaz (ES).

3. Other classifications

  • Marine islands: located in the ocean.
  • River islands: located in rivers.
  • Lacustrine islands: in lakes.
  • Maritime-fluvial islands: between rivers and the sea, such as Marajó Island (PA).

Brazil’s main islands

1. Fernando de Noronha (PE)

Known as the King of the Brazilian Islands, it enchants with its crystal clear waters, unspoilt marine life and breathtaking landscapes.

2. Island of Tinharé (BA)

Home to the famous Morro de São Paulo, with paradise beaches and vibrant nightlife.

3. Ilha Grande (RJ)

A nature reserve near Angra dos Reis, with deserted beaches and trails in the Atlantic Forest.

4. Abrolhos Archipelago (BA)

Destination for divers, with humpback whale watching between July and November.

5. Ilhabela (SP)

With private beaches, waterfalls and trails, it’s ideal for adventure and relaxation.

6. Ilha do Mel (PR)

Unspoilt destination with limited access and rustic landscapes.

7. Island of Santa Catarina (SC)

Home to Florianópolis, famous for its varied beaches, dunes and lakes.

8. Island of Caju (MA/PI)

Part of the Parnaíba Delta, it offers fresh water beaches, natural pools and ecotourism.

9. Boipeba Island (BA)

Quieter than Tinharé, it’s a paradise of private beaches and unspoilt nature.

10. Marajó Island (PA)

The largest river and sea island in the world, famous for its buffaloes and Marajó culture.

Lesser known but incredible islands

11. Cardoso Island (SP)

Within a State Park, with mangroves, trails and caiçara communities.

12. Algodoal Island (PA)

Rustic island with lagoons, canoeing and no motorised vehicles.

13. Japanese Island (RJ)

In Cabo Frio, famous for its shallow and calm waters, ideal for families.

14. Couves Island (SP)

Near Ubatuba, with crystal clear waters and visitor controls for environmental reasons.

15. Island of Itamaracá (PE)

Near Recife, it combines history, quiet beaches and the manatee project.

16. Campeche Island (SC)

Known as the Caribbean of Santa Catarina, it has rock inscriptions and access control.

17. Combu Island (PA)

Opposite Belém, it’s home to native cocoa, forest trails and Amazonian cuisine.

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