Angra dos Reis: Paradise Islands Speedboat Tour & Beaches

Summary

Ilha Grande speedboat day trip with secret beaches, snorkeling and local stories

You’ll cruise Angra dos Reis by speedboat with a local guide, swim and snorkel at Botinas Islands’ clear waters, stroll quiet beaches on Ilha da Gipóia like Dentista Beach, and maybe share fresh grilled fish with new friends at Praia das Flechas. Expect salt on your skin and moments that linger long after you’re dry.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to float above sand so white you can’t tell where the sea ends? That’s how our speedboat ride around Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande started — with a quick hop from the pier, sun already warming my shoulders, and our guide Paulo grinning as he handed out snorkels. The engine buzzed (louder than I expected), but after a few minutes, all I could hear was water slapping the hull and someone laughing behind me — I think it was that couple from São Paulo trying to take a selfie. First stop: Botinas Islands. Honestly, the water here is so clear it almost looks fake. Paulo warned us not to be fooled by the shallows — it drops off fast. I dipped my head under and suddenly there were fish everywhere, flickering like confetti. Didn’t expect that rush of coolness either; it woke me right up.

Dentista Beach came next, tucked into Gipóia Island. We stepped onto sand so fine it squeaked underfoot (I’m still finding bits in my bag). No kiosks midweek, just us and a few locals fishing quietly by the trees. The green of the forest kind of melts into the white of the beach — I tried to capture it on my phone but gave up after a while. There’s something about standing there with salty skin, listening to distant chatter from another boat, that makes you forget you even have a schedule. Paulo pointed out Praia da Piedade across the way — apparently celebrities used to hang out there, but today it was just a sleepy church perched above empty sand.

Lunch was optional at Praia das Flechas (we went for grilled fish; simple but perfect after swimming), and then we drifted over to Pitangueira Beach for one last swim. Not many tourists here — mostly locals waving as they paddled past or napped in the shade. The trees actually give decent cover if you forgot sunscreen (like me). On the way back, Paulo told us stories about growing up around these islands; his accent made some words hard for me to catch, but his laugh was contagious anyway. I still think about that view from the boat as we sped home — sunlight bouncing off water, everyone quiet for once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore beaches around Ilha Grande

• Visit Botinas Islands for snorkeling
• Relax at Dentista Beach
• Enjoy Praia da Piedade beach
• Stop for optional lunch at Praia das Flechas
• Unwind at Pitangueira Beach

Top questions

How long is the Paradise Islands speedboat tour?

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours in total.

Which beaches are included on this Angra dos Reis tour?

The tour visits Botinas Islands, Dentista Beach, Praia da Piedade, Praia das Flechas (with optional lunch), and Pitangueira Beach.

Is snorkeling equipment provided during the tour?

Yes, snorkels are available for use during stops like Botinas Islands.

Are food and drinks included on this speedboat day trip?

No, food and beverages are available for purchase but not included in the price.

Is this Paradise Islands tour suitable for children?

Yes, infants and small children can join with adult supervision; strollers are allowed.

Does this Angra dos Reis boat tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at the departure point near public transport options.

Is this speedboat trip accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can pregnant travelers join this Paradise Islands boat trip?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes shared speedboat transport between islands around Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande with a local guide leading each stop; all taxes and handling fees are covered; food and drinks can be purchased along the way if you want them; gratuities are optional but appreciated if you feel like it.