Islands of Brazil: Discover Paradise Destinations

The Islands of Brazil: Natural beauty and unmissable destinations

With an extensive coastline of more than 8,000 kilometres, Brazil is home to a number of 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

The continental islands are close to the mainland and share the same geological base, forming part of the extension of the mainland territory. The separation of these islands is usually due to natural processes such as erosion and changes in sea level.

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

2. Oceanic islands

Unlike continental islands, oceanic islands are not directly connected to a continent and are formed from different geological bases, such as volcanic formations or coral reefs.

  • Volcanic islands: Formed by volcanic eruptions, where cooled lava creates new land.
  • Coral islands: Formed by the accumulation of coral over time, such as atolls, which have circular formations around a lagoon.

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

3. Other classifications

Islands can also be classified according to their location:

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

Brazil’s main islands

1. Fernando de Noronha (PE)

Known as Brazil’s ‘King of Islands’, Noronha’s crystal clear waters, unspoilt marine life and breathtaking scenery will enchant you.

2. Tinharé Island (BA)

Home to the famous Morro de São Paulo, a trendy destination with paradisiacal beaches and vibrant nightlife. It can be reached by catamaran from Salvador.

3. Ilha Grande (RJ)

Close to Angra dos Reis, this is a haven of lush nature, with secluded beaches and trails in the middle of the Atlantic Forest.

4. Abrolhos Archipelago (BA)

Protected and monitored, Abrolhos is a must-see for divers. Between July and November, it is possible to see humpback whales in the region.

5. Ilhabela (SP)

Famous among São Paulo residents, Ilhabela offers deserted beaches, waterfalls and mountains, as well as leisure and water sports.

6. Ilha do Mel (PR)

The perfect destination for those seeking tranquillity, with beautiful landscapes and restricted access to preserve its biodiversity.

7. Island of Santa Catarina (SC)

It is home to Florianópolis and its many beaches, lagoons and dunes, which cater for everyone from those looking for a good time to those who prefer quieter places.

8. Island of Caju (MA/PI)

Located in the Parnaíba Delta, it has dunes, natural pools and freshwater beaches.

9. Boipeba Island (BA)

Neighbouring Tinharé, this is a quieter destination, ideal for those seeking unspoilt beaches and peace and quiet in the midst of nature.

10. Marajó Island (PA)

The largest river island in the world, famous for its buffalo, rich local culture and Marajó handicrafts. It can be reached from Belém.

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