Angra dos Reis

A stunning coastal town featuring over 365 islands and pristine beaches along the Costa Verde. It's perfect for boat trips, island hopping, and exploring emerald waters with excellent seafood and colonial architecture.

Things to do

• Ilha Grande Island Exploration — Take a ferry to this car-free island paradise featuring hiking trails, pristine beaches like Lopes Mendes, and colonial ruins of a former penal settlement.
• Boat Tour to Paraty — Cruise along the Costa Verde coastline to the neighboring colonial town of Paraty, stopping at secluded beaches and emerald coves along the way.
• Cachoeira do Sul Waterfall — Hike through Atlantic Forest to reach this refreshing freshwater waterfall that cascades directly into the ocean near Angra's coastline.
• Scuba Diving at Shipwrecks — Explore underwater wrecks and coral reefs in the clear waters around the 365 islands, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
• Igreja da Matriz Church — Visit this well-preserved 18th-century colonial church in downtown Angra dos Reis, featuring baroque architecture and religious artifacts.
• Japariz Beach Day Trip — Take a short boat ride to this tranquil beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling among local coral formations.

Food to try

• Caldo de Piranha — A traditional Brazilian soup made with piranha fish, served hot with lime and cassava flour, reflecting the region's riverine fishing heritage.
• Fresh Grilled Peixe Espada — A local white fish caught daily in Angra's waters, grilled simply with garlic, lemon, and served with rice and beans at waterfront restaurants.
• Moqueca Caiçara — A coastal stew combining fresh seafood, coconut milk, dendê oil, and local vegetables served in a clay pot, representing the Caiçara fishing community's cuisine.
• Arroz com Frutos do Mar — A creamy seafood rice dish combining local shrimp, fish, and mussels with coconut broth and fresh cilantro, a staple at beachside establishments.
• Sequilhos and Broinhas — Traditional Portuguese-influenced sweet cookies and corn cakes sold at local bakeries, popular afternoon treats paired with coffee.

Local customs & good to know

• Beach and Boat Etiquette — Locals take pride in the pristine waters and beaches; always dispose of trash properly and respect posted marine conservation areas during island visits.
• Caiçara Community Heritage — The region's indigenous fishing communities maintain traditional practices; engaging respectfully with local fishermen and supporting community-run tours preserves this cultural legacy.
• Seasonal Rainfall and Timing — Plan visits during dry season (May to September) when boat trips are most reliable; rainy season (December to March) causes rough seas and limited island access.
• Portuguese Colonial Influence — The town's architecture, street names, and religious celebrations reflect Portuguese colonial heritage; Sunday Mass at the Matriz Church remains an important local tradition.