Ilha Bela

Ilha Bela (also called Ilha de São Sebastião) is about four hours drive from Campinas, including the fifteen minute ferry crossing from São Sebastião, making it perfect for a long weekend break. The mainland-facing coast is urbanized and the one, long coastal road passes by numerous beaches which you could spend a month getting to know. The main town, Vela, is worth visiting in the evening, especially the metal sculptures in front of the pier which children will enjoy. Up from Vela is Pedra Sino - some large rocks which ring when you bash them with a stick. The other side of the island is scarcely populated but, for that reason, its beaches are more prized. You can take a day's excursion by jeep to the beach of Castelhanos, using the very rough track which crosses the island (the adventurous may consider going by mountain bike, but should set out early). Diving, snorkelling, sailing, walking and bathing in one of the various waterfalls are also popular activities. In fact, the only downside to Ilha Bela is the mosquitos - borrachudos - which will test even the best repellents.

   
Taking a jeep to Castelhanos...stopping off on the way to make a forest walk...

...to visit the Cachoeira do Gato.

The southern beaches are some of the best - this is Praia Curral.

With Don Quixote