Curator’s statement
Ilhabela is an amazing place for hanging out at the beach, eating Brazilian food or just relaxing. It feels safer than the city, and the vibe is local and Brazilian. While there are a lot of visitors there, it doesn't feel overrun by tourists. I love the idea of eating good food at a calm beach on a warm evening. This place has exactly that.
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Where to stay on Ilhabela
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Things to do on Ilhabela
Ilhabela is island life with a Latin feel. Cruise along the beach and snap pictures of everything along the way. Every restaurant I went to was top-notch. Even breakfast at a normal Brazilian hotel is better quality than anything in the states. You can also go out on a guided boat and explore the many beaches, waterfalls and communities along the water.
Day trips:
The Ocianic guided boat tour, which explores the waters of Ilhabela. You can see waterfalls, beaches, nice houses and the best part: Churrasco, barbecue on a boat!
Places to eat & drink on Ilhabela
Pimenta de Cheiro: Has a view of the beach and great food. I would recommend the Camarão Na Moranga, which is shrimp in cream sauce inside a pumpkin.
Varanda Espetaria: Has kabobs, which they espetos. I would recommend the chicken wrapped in bacon. Wow! I also enjoyed a dark beer called Brahma.
Kalango Hotel Boutique: There's a restaurant downstairs by the pool which is beautiful and has caipirinhas and other tasty drinks. The hotel's breakfasts are amazing. Typical food is pão de queijo (cheese bread), various pastries, cold meats, scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
Travel Advisor
Joshua Taylor
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