Located less than 100km to the southwest of Rio and only 5km from the green coast, Ilha Grande has all the ingredients one would expect from a paradise island: crystal clear lagoons sheltering colourful coral beds and numerous secluded beaches, many of which can only be reached by boat or on foot via the island’s network of forest-trails. The island is almost completely carpeted with pristine coastal Atlantic rainforest, and shelters only three small settlements, the largest of which is Vila do Abraão. Some of the trails across the island are reasonably well signposted so perfect for those who prefer to explore the island by themselves. Lopes Mendes beach is a must-see, reachable from Abraão on foot (3-4h, one-way), or by schooner. The blue lagoon (lagoa azul) is one of the best places to go snorkelling. Apart from a myriad of fish species, the island’s waters are home to a thriving sea turtle population.