Paradise Islands in Ilha Grande: Cataguases, Botinas and Praia do Dentista — Guide 2026
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
In this Guide
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What is the Paradise Islands Tour?
If there's one place in Brazil that deserves the title of the Brazilian Caribbean, it's the paradisiacal islands of Angra dos Reis Bay. This tour takes you to an archipelago of islands with white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenery that looks like it came straight out of a Caribbean postcard—only less than 3 hours from Rio de Janeiro.
Lasting approximately 7 hours and departing from Vila do Abraão, the tour covers famous islands such as Cataguases (formerly Ilha de Caras), Botinas, Praia do Dentista, and Ilha de Piedade. It's a different tour from the Half-Round Tour—while the Half-Round Tour focuses on the lagoons of the north coast of Ilha Grande, the Paradise Islands tour explores the islands of Angra Bay, with Caribbean-style white sand beaches that you won't find on any other tour.
Itinerary: Cataguases, Botinas and Dentista Beach
Dentista Beach — Gipóia Island
Fine white sand with coconut palms leaning over the turquoise sea. It's considered one of the most Instagrammable beaches on the Rio de Janeiro coast. The water is so clear you can see the fish without diving. A perfect setting for photos that will be a hit on your social media.
Cataguases Island — The former Caras Island
Famous for being featured in Caras magazine, Cataguases has 7 small beaches with white Caribbean sand. The stone pier is a classic spot for jumping into the crystal-clear water. It's the island that most impresses visitors with its combination of white sand, transparent water, and untouched tropical vegetation.
Botinas Islands — The Setting for a Soap Opera
Two twin rocky outcrops in the middle of the bay, with no sandy beach — only snorkeling. Botinas became famous as the setting for the telenovela "Por Amor" and are one of the most incredible snorkeling spots in the region. The depth between the islands forms a natural pool with impressive visibility.
Piedade Island
A stretch of white sand with shallow water and a small colonial church atop the hill. The contrast between the Caribbean sand, the turquoise sea, and the historic church creates one of the most photogenic views on the route.
Difference between Paradise Islands and Halfway Around
This is one of the most common questions among tourists. The Half-Circle tour covers the north coast of Ilha Grande (Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Verde, Saco do Céu) — focusing on natural aquariums and snorkeling. The Paradise Islands tour covers the islands of Angra Bay (Cataguases, Botinas, Gipóia) — focusing on Caribbean-style white sand beaches. For those who have two days on the island, the ideal is to do both tours and experience the best of both worlds.
Prices 2026 and What's Included
Departing from Vila do Abraão: from R$ 180 to R$ 230 per person in a shared speedboat. Includes speedboat, mineral water, cooler with ice, flotation devices, and life jackets. Does not include lunch, snorkeling, or drinks. The sea between the islands is sheltered by the mainland, making the trip comfortable and with a low risk of seasickness. Payment methods: Pix, credit card (3 installments), or cash.
Tips to Make the Most of It
Bring a waterproof camera — the underwater photos at Botinas are spectacular. Use biodegradable sunscreen to preserve the corals. Bring cash for lunch (not all restaurants on the islands accept cards). Wear comfortable swimwear and shoes that can get wet. And the most important tip: if you can, do this tour on a sunny day — the color of the water changes completely when the sun is at its peak.
Book your Paradise Islands Tour
The Paradise Islands are the most photogenic destination on the Costa Verde. White sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenery that rivals any Caribbean destination—all just a few hours from Rio de Janeiro. Spaces on the speedboat are limited, especially during peak season.
👉 CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR PARADISE ISLANDS TOUR
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