Angra Dos Reis

Angra dos Reis is one of the most breathtaking coastal destinations in Brazil — a city of 360 islands, emerald bays, and Atlantic Forest-covered mountains where the sea seems impossibly blue. Located 160 kilometres south-west of Rio de Janeiro along the Costa Verde (Green Coast), Angra sits at the heart of a bay that has been described as the most beautiful in the southern hemisphere. The surrounding protected marine areas shelter some of the finest snorkelling and diving in Brazil, and the islands range from tiny uninhabited rock formations to Ilha Grande, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

History of Angra dos Reis

Portuguese explorer Gaspar de Lemos arrived at the bay on 6 January 1502 — the feast of the Three Kings (Reis Magos) — and named it Angra dos Reis in their honour. The bay was one of the most important ports in colonial Brazil, through which gold and diamonds from Minas Gerais were shipped to Portugal throughout the 18th century.

In the 20th century Angra dos Reis became a destination for wealthy Brazilians and international visitors. Today it is one of Brazil’s most visited coastal destinations, particularly popular December through February. Carnival in Angra draws revellers from across the country for boat parties on the bay.

What to See

Ilha Grande is the main island destination — a car-free island covered in Atlantic Forest with pristine beaches including the famous Lopes Mendes Beach. The island also has the historic ruins of Dois Rios prison where political prisoners were held during Brazil’s military dictatorship. Hiking trails through the rainforest lead to waterfalls and hidden coves.

Boat tours from the Angra dos Reis marina visit smaller islands throughout the bay, stopping at natural pools and beaches inaccessible from land. Snorkelling among coral formations and tropical fish is a highlight, and scuba diving operators offer access to shipwrecks and coral gardens.

Practical Information

• Tickets: Varies by activity; boat tours from BRL 80-150 per person; Ilha Grande ferry approximately BRL 25-40 each way
• Opening hours: Open year-round; peak season December-February and Carnival
• Best time to visit: March-May and September-November for fewer crowds and good weather
• Duration: 2-4 days to explore the bay and islands properly
• Booking: Book accommodation and boat tours in advance for peak season

Local Insights

Angra dos Reis is where wealthy Brazilians have their holiday homes, but it is also accessible and wonderful for budget travellers who stay in pousadas and join shared boat tours from the marina.

• Join a schooner group tour from the marina for the most affordable way to see the islands and snorkel in clear water
• Ilha Grande is best visited with at least one night stay — day trips don’t leave enough time for beaches and hiking
• The ferry to Ilha Grande from Conceicao de Jacareí is cheaper than private boat charters
• Carnival in Angra is spectacular — the city fills with revellers and boat parties on the bay
• Sea turtles nest on several beaches near Angra; October-February is nesting season and sightings are common

Getting There

• Bus: Regular buses from Rio de Janeiro Rodoviaria Novo Rio, approximately 2.5-3 hours; Costa Verde and Reunidas operators
• Car: Via BR-101/Rodovia Rio-Santos, approximately 2.5 hours; the coastal road is scenic
• Boat to Ilha Grande: Ferry from Conceicao de Jacareí or Mangaratiba, or direct boat from Angra dos Reis marina
• Taxi/rideshare: From Rio de Janeiro approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic