If you’re planning a trip to Ilha Grande, you’re in luck. This detailed guide to the best Ilha Grande hotels and pousadas includes a meticulously curated list of the island’s finest accommodations.
I know Ilha Grande pretty well. I recently spent a week there and have explored most corners of this drop-dead gorgeous island. It’s a place that I fell in love with immediately and I’m pretty sure you’ll feel the same way too.
This untouched paradise off the coast of Brazil beckons the adventurous with its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a serene tropical vibe that’s seriously addictive.
Whether you want a centrally located hotel with all the modern amenities or a secluded pousada nestled in the jungle, this guide has you covered.
My Top 3 Picks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vila Pedra Mar
✅ Luxurious high-end hotel
✅ Private suites
✅ Amazing restaurant
Pousada Lagamar
✅ Peaceful location
✅ Hammocks + ocean views
✅ Great value for money
Casarao da Praia
✅ Spacious 2-bedroom house
✅ Direct beach access
✅ Perfect for groups
Top 11 Pousadas and Hotels in Ilha Grande
I selected the following places based on several factors: my own personal experiences, location, unique features, guest reviews, and those little extra touches that make a stay unforgettable.
To make this guide as helpful and comprehensive as possible, I’ve included a range of different locations across the island, styles, and price points.
Whatever your budget, needs, and preferences, there’s a perfect place for you on this list.
1. Pousada Lagamar
⭐️ RATING: 9.3/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Praia Vermelha
Nestled on the idyllic shores of Araçatiba Bay close to Praia Vermelha, Pousada Lagamar offers a sanctuary for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of Ilha Grande.
I stayed here during my time on Ilha Grande and it was simply wonderful. If you love nature and want to stay in a quiet corner of Ilha Grande away from the crowds, this might just be the place for you.
Price-wise, it’s mid-range, although I’d say very good value for what you get. The rooms are simple but perfectly comfortable, with a good range of amenities designed to complement the natural surroundings.
The staff are lovely and super helpful too.
I loved waking up every morning here and enjoying a coffee on my porch hammock while listening to the sound of the waves and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
The breakfast is great too, with delicious fresh tropical fruit, homemade cakes, and a variety of other local specialities.
Surrounded by lush tropical forest, Pousada Lagamar has loads of wildlife right on the doorstep including monkeys, hummingbirds, porcupines, and clouds of colourful butterflies.
It’s a peaceful, intimate natural hideaway and a great place to stay on Ilha Grande.
While Pousada Lagamar offers an authentic, close-to-nature experience, the one downside is that the property has fairly frequent power outages (or at least it did when I was there).
However, this is by no means the fault of the owners. Most Ilha Grande hotels and pousadas also suffer from power cuts due to the island’s lack of infrastructure.
Although I think some other (pricier) places have better generators.
If this isn’t an issue for you (bring a headtorch), I’m sure you’ll love staying here.
✅ Peaceful location surrounded by nature
✅ Opportunity to observe local wildlife
✅ Comfortable rooms with ocean views
✅ Variety of outdoor activities
✅ Great breakfast and helpful staff
2. Fauna
⭐️ RATING: 9.6/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Praia do Bananal
Fauna Pousada e Restaurante is your hideaway in Praia do Bananal. Here you wake up to the sound of the ocean and birdsong, with a view of Ilha Grande’s serene beauty.
At Fauna, the rooms are more like cosy retreats, with a range of thoughtful creature comforts. Some rooms have private patios, and with decent WiFi and barbecue spots ready to go, it’s like a slice of home in paradise.
Breakfast is a banquet with views. You’ll tuck into a spread that’s as generous as it is tasty, either buffet or American style.
Keen on kayaking? Or fancy trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)? You’re in luck. With the pousada sitting snugly on Enseada do Bananal’s calm waters, it’s an ideal spot for water activities and exploring the stunning coastline.
And Abraão – the main village on Ilha Grande – is only a 20-minute boat ride away.
It’s the kind of place you recommend to friends, knowing they’ll be in for a treat.
✅ Charming and cosy rooms with modern amenities
✅ Delicious breakfast with a view
✅ Kayaking and SUP
✅ Warm and welcoming owner
✅ Tranquil location
3. Pousada Naturalia
⭐️ RATING: 9.3/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Praia do Canto, Abraão
Tucked away in Praia do Canto, a mere 10-minute wander from Vila do Abraão pier, you’ll find Pousada Naturalia, a place with a perfect balance of seclusion and convenience.
Picture chilling in a hammock, the sea breeze ruffling through the pages of your book, and panoramic views of Abraão Bay. That’s what you get here.
Each of the 12 cosy rooms offers great views and comes equipped with air-con, fans, a minibar, and a safe. Trust me, once you flop into that hammock on your private balcony, you may never want to leave.
The staff here gets a gold star for friendliness. They keep the front desk ticking all day and all night, so there’s always someone there when you need them. And if you’re itching to explore, they’ve got the scoop on the best trips around Ilha Grande.
Pousada Naturalia is an ideal spot for eco-conscious travellers. It has a Travel Sustainable Level 2 certification, reflecting its commitment to preserving the island’s eco-friendly ethos.
Just bear in mind, that WiFi can be a bit hit-and-miss here. But hey, you’re here for a natural escape, right?
✅ Stunning sea views
✅ Convenient yet secluded location
✅ Private balconies with hammocks
✅ Friendly and helpful staff
✅ Commitment to sustainability
4. O Sítio
⭐️ RATING: 9.6/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Praia do Abraãozinho, Abraão
Located on a secluded bay not far from Abraão, O Sítio is a gem for anyone looking for a luxurious escape in tranquil settings, all just a stone’s throw from the island’s main town.
It’s one of the more expensive places on this list, but it’s a really special, beautiful place to stay. Set in an idyllic garden right next to the beach, O Sítio is your own slice of paradise.
Think homey vibes with a touch of class. You can choose from a range of different rooms, from standard to deluxe, each with a private bathroom and all the essentials.
O Sítio’s staff are top-notch, going the extra mile to make you feel right at home. And the whole place is very family-friendly.
The on-site restaurant is fabulous too, with a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood and other local delicacies. Plus, you can enjoy your meals surrounded by nature in their lush garden.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a healthy mix of both, you’ll find it here. You can hike through the nearby forest trails, explore hidden nooks and coves in a canoe, or go snorkelling in the rich azure waters.
Then, retreat to the sun terrace or wander down to the beach and enjoy a spectacular sunset with a caipirinha or two.
With its rustic charm and cosy ambience, O Sitio is a superb boutique hotel on Ilha Grande.
✅ Secluded and peaceful location
✅ Beautiful garden and easy access to the beach
✅ Range of room options for different budgets
✅ Excellent on-site restaurant with fresh local cuisine
✅ Variety of activities available nearby
5. Pousada Aquarela do Mar
⭐️ RATING: 9.3/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Abraão
Pousada Aquarela do Mar is a welcoming, budget-friendly guesthouse that’s close to some of Ilha Grande’s most popular spots.
Just moments away from the sun-kissed Abraão Beach, its prime location means that a range of adventures are on your doorstep.
The air-conditioned rooms have balconies, flat-screen TVs, and safety deposit boxes. Privacy and peace come as standard, and each room has its own en suite with a good-quality shower and complimentary toiletries.
The staff speak many different languages, including Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French. They’re always around to ensure that your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Connectivity marries convenience with free WiFi throughout the property, alongside family-friendly non-smoking rooms, room service, and a 24-hour front desk.
The property has a Travel Sustainable Level 2 certification and a host of positive reviews and guest testimonials praising its location, room quality, cleanliness, and great breakfast.
✅ Close to Abraão Beach
✅ Well-furnished, air-conditioned rooms
✅ Friendly and multilingual staff
✅ Great value
✅ Excellent customer reviews
6. Casa Selva
⭐️ RATING: 9.8/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Abraão
Another superb budget hotel on Ilha Grande, Casa Selva is a serene sanctuary for weary travellers.
Located a leisurely stroll from the golden sands of Abraão Beach, you’ll be close enough to feel the ocean’s whisper from Preta Beach and Abraãozinho Beach.
The garden is picturesque and perfumed with the scent of tropical flowers. You’ll love dining alfresco on the terrace, where every meal is accompanied by a symphony of birdcalls.
The rooms are basic but spotlessly clean and air-conditioned, catering to families and solo adventurers alike. Some rooms have balconies, and each one comes with plush bed linen and fluffy towels.
For those who prefer to cook their own meals, kitchen facilities are available, including a stovetop, a fridge, and kitchenware.
Other guests have praised Casa Selva’s cleanliness, comfort, and exceptional value.
✅ Short walk from three stunning beaches
✅ Peaceful garden setting
✅ Well-equipped kitchen facilities
✅ Excellent value for money
✅ Clean and comfortable budget accommodation
7. Vila Pedra Mar
⭐️ RATING: 9.8/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Praia Vermelha
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway on Ilha Grande, this place is a great choice. Vila Pedra Mar is a luxurious hotel tucked away in the enchanting jungle next to Praia Vermelha.
This is my favourite part of the island and close to where I stayed during my week there. It’s a serene spot for couples seeking a tranquil retreat surrounded by picturesque natural beauty.
Each suite at Vila Pedra Mar is a personal haven, complete with high-end amenities designed for your comfort. The private bathrooms come equipped with plush bathrobes and designer toiletries.
The staff of Vila Pedra Mar are in a league of their own, with guests consistently awarding them a perfect 10 out of 10 for service. Their warmth and hospitality will help ensure you have an unforgettable stay.
Vila Pedra Mar’s on-site restaurant is another highlight, and breakfast and dinner are included in the room rate. Surrounded by lush tropical greenery, dining here is a real sensory experience.
Start your day with a breakfast of fresh tropical fruit, traditional Brazilian pastries, and a choice of sweet and savoury dishes. And in the evening, enjoy a romantic candle-lit dinner.
In a world that moves at breakneck speed, Vila Pedra Mar is a serene sanctuary and the perfect place to unwind and reconnect.
✅ Perfect for couples seeking a luxurious escape
✅ Tranquil location near Praia Vermelha
✅ Private suites with high-end amenities
✅ Exceptional staff and service
✅ Top-notch restaurant
8. Casa do Canto
⭐️ RATING: 9.5/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Abraão
With five bedrooms and two living areas, Casa do Canto is a perfect place to stay on Ilha Grande for large families and groups.
Each room is well-appointed with all the comforts of home. There’s air conditioning throughout the property, a large flat-screen TV, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Casa do Canto has an enviable location, a mere stone’s throw from Abraão Beach and an easy walk from several other picturesque beaches, including Abraãozinho and Preta Beach.
The property has amazing sea views and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for a relaxing retreat. Outside, a well-maintained garden, barbecue setup, and a sun-drenched terrace are great for leisurely days spent in good company.
✅ Prime beachfront location
✅ Spacious property ideal for families and groups
✅ Full range of amenities for a comfortable stay
✅ Excellent guest reviews
✅ Garden and BBQ area
9. Pousada Rubi
⭐️ RATING: 9.6/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Abraão
Pousada Rubi is a mid-range guesthouse offering a charming and intimate stay.
The rooms are cosy and decorated to create a warm, homely feel. Each comes equipped with air conditioning and a private bathroom. Some of the rooms have their own private balcony with great views.
The sauna and jacuzzi are definite highlights, as is the warmth of the staff.
Breakfast is a homemade spread of natural juices, fresh fruits, and cakes. It’s an authentic taste of Brazilian hospitality and a tasty start to each day.
Pousada Rubi has a peaceful, beachfront location within easy reach of a range of local amenities.
✅ Sauna and jacuzzi
✅ Comfortable rooms with modern comforts
✅ Balconies with great views
✅ Homemade quality breakfast
✅ Quiet yet convenient village location
10. Mar da Lua
⭐️ RATING: 9.3/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Praia de Araçatiba
Mar da Lua is a characterful mid-range hotel in a serene location close to Praia de Araçatiba.
The hotel’s strategic location earns high marks for both tranquillity and its breathtaking seaside views, ideal for couples looking for a quiet, intimate atmosphere.
I love the traditional wood-panelled architecture and thatched roofs. The beds are extremely comfy and the ocean views out across the bay are drop-dead gorgeous.
Mar da Lua has an outdoor swimming pool and a waterfront deck with a private dock for small boats. You can rent paddleboards or snorkelling gear, or simply lie on a lounger and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
The ambience of the whole hotel is relaxed and decidedly laid-back, helping you unwind to the rhythms of island life. It’s a wonderful, unique place with a helpful, friendly owner who’s always happy to help.
Mar da Lua also has an extremely well-reviewed restaurant that serves up a range of tasty dishes, including some of the freshest seafood on the island. Breakfast includes continental, buffet, and American options to suit all preferences.
Given the quality of what’s on offer and the price you pay, it’s one of the best value places to stay on Ilha Grande.
✅ Idyllic location
✅ Spectacular sea views
✅ Peaceful, relaxing atmosphere
✅ Swimming pool and paddleboarding
✅ Amazing value for money
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
11. Casarao da Praia
⭐️ RATING: 9.8/10 | 📍 LOCATION: Praia Vermelha
Casarao da Praia is a fabulous two-bedroom, two-bathroom house in Praia Vermelha.
With a king-sized bed in one room and a queen in the other, plus a couple of extra sofa beds in the living room, it’s ideal for families or small groups.
The house is beachfront, with direct access to the sea. The whole property is air conditioned and there’s a fully stocked kitchen with an oven, a microwave, and a toaster.
Add to this a comfortable living room, indoor and outdoor dining areas, and a terrace with a BBQ and spectacular sea views.
Housekeeping is included, and you can even request breakfast to be prepared and served at the house if you wish.
The location is great too. You can walk right out the front door and onto one of the island’s best hiking trails. Or take a few steps down to the beach for snorkelling, kayaking, water taxis, and boat tours.
Previous guests have praised the attentiveness of the hosts, the first-rate amenities, the diversity of breakfast options, and how the comfort of the property melds beautifully with the laid-back beach vibes.
✅ Spacious and comfortable house
✅ Direct beach access
✅ Amazing sea views
✅ Proximity to hiking trails and water activities
✅ Great for families and small groups
Different Areas to Stay on Ilha Grande
Choosing where to stay on Ilha Grande can be tricky. There are many gorgeous spots, but it’s a fairly big island so you’ll want to choose your location wisely.
To help make it a bit easier, here are a few of my favourite areas on the island.
- Praia Vermelha: A beautiful beach with crystal clear waters. Great for snorkelling and kayaking. This is where I stayed on Ilha Grande.
- Araçatiba: A tiny secluded village perfect for tranquillity and relaxation. Linked to Praia Vermelha by a beautiful hiking trail through the jungle.
- Abraão: The island’s main tourist hub, with plenty of restaurants, bars and shops. The majority of budget accommodation on Ilha Grande can be found here. It’s also the best place for boat tours.
Getting to Ilha Grande
I’ve written a detailed guide on how to get to Ilha Grande. Check it out!
Why Visit Ilha Grande?
Ilha Grande (or “Big Island”) is blessed with a stunning natural landscape that’s still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism.
There are no roads or cars on the island, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and eco-friendly getaway.
From hiking to some of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches and waterfalls to snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to keep you busy.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about visiting Ilha Grande.
Where is the best place to stay in Ilha Grande?
The best place to stay on Ilha Grande depends on what sort of trip you want. Vila do Abraão is the main village on the island and offers the greatest range of hotels and amenities. However, I prefer the quieter western part of the island around Praia Vermelha.
What’s the difference between a pousada and a hotel?
Pousadas are typically small, family-owned guesthouses. They usually offer a more personalised experience compared to larger hotels and often have a cosy, homely atmosphere.
When is the best time to visit Ilha Grande?
I think the best time to visit Ilha Grande is during shoulder season (April-May and September-November), which offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
The peak season runs from December to March, but popular spots can get crowded during this time. The low season (June-August) can be rainy, but prices are much lower and you’ll have the island practically to yourself.
Is there internet access on Ilha Grande?
Yes, most pousadas and hotels offer free WiFi for guests. However, as the island is fairly remote, the connection may not always be reliable or high-speed. It’s best to disconnect and enjoy the island life while you’re there.
Can I drink the tap water on Ilha Grande?
You shouldn’t drink the tap water on Ilha Grande. While some locals might be used to it, visitors are better off sticking to bottled water to avoid any unnecessary holiday mishaps.
Are credit cards accepted on Ilha Grande?
While a few places do accept credit cards on Ilha Grande, many small shops, local eateries, and tour operators run on a cash-only basis. I recommend bringing enough Brazilian reais to cover your expenses.
What are the medical facilities like on Ilha Grande?
Ilha Grande has basic medical facilities for minor health issues, but for anything serious, you’ll need to go to the mainland. To be on the safe side, travel with a good medical kit and be sure to have comprehensive travel insurance.
Is Ilha Grande family-friendly?
Ilha Grande is a fantastic choice for families! The beaches are a paradise for kids and adults alike, and a few calm bays make excellent swimming spots for little ones. Plus, there are plenty of family-friendly hotels and pousadas.
How do you get around Ilha Grande Brazil?
The two main ways of getting around Ilha Grande are on foot or by boat. Cars are not allowed on the island, so walking is the primary mode of transportation. You can also take a boat trip or one of the public water taxis to visit further away spots.
🤩 Vila Pedra Mar is the best luxury hotel in Ilha Grande… Click here to book!
Final Thoughts
Ilha Grande is a true gem that promises adventure and serenity in equal measure. With an array of unique and inviting accommodation options, it’s the perfect destination for a truly relaxing and unforgettable island getaway.
From charming pousadas to characterful hotels and spacious beachfront houses, there’s something for every type of traveller.
Whichever area you choose to stay in, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with the stunning natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere of this Brazilian paradise.
