Ilhabela: Bonete & Indaiaúba Superboat Beach Day Tour

Summary

Superboat adventure to Bonete beach with secret cave stop and caiçara village life

You’ll speed along Ilhabela’s southern coast by superboat, stopping first at Indaiaúba’s crystal-clear beach before reaching Bonete’s lively caiçara village. Listen to pirate legends from your local guide, peek into sea caves, and finish off swimming beneath a cool waterfall. It’s less about rushing around—and more about letting each moment sink in.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the boat to bounce that much—felt like we were skipping over the water south from Ilhabela, salt spray in my face and hair already wild. Our guide, Tiago, started pointing out little coves as we passed, telling stories about pirates hiding here (he swears it’s true), and honestly I believed him for a second. The island just has that kind of mood—dense green pressing right down to the sea, waterfalls just appearing out of nowhere on the cliffs. I caught a whiff of wet earth mixed with sunscreen and engine oil. Not exactly poetic but real.

We stopped at this cave everyone calls “dog hole”—I still don’t know why. It’s just there in the middle of the sea, half-hidden by rocks. Tiago laughed when I tried to say its name in Portuguese—definitely butchered it. Then suddenly we were at Indaiaúba beach. The water was so clear you could see every pebble under your feet, and there was this hush except for a couple locals hauling nets further down. I remember standing there thinking how far away city noise felt; even my phone had no signal (kind of a relief).

Bonete came next—bigger waves, more people around but still not crowded. There’s a caiçara village right behind the sand where kids waved at us as we walked by. Lunch was simple fish and rice from one of the homes (not fancy but tasted like someone actually cared). We cooled off at a waterfall nearby—the kind where you stand under it and forget what time it is. I still think about that view sometimes, sunlight flickering through leaves while you drip dry on warm rocks.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Superboat ride to Bonete and Indaiaúba

• 09:30 Check-in
• Boat ride south of island
• Panoramic view with island stories
• See sea cave called dog hole
• Stop at Indaiaúba beach
• Arrive at Bonete village
• Visit Bonete beach
• Walk to waterfall of the well
• 17:00 Return

Top questions

How long does the Bonete & Indaiaúba superboat tour last?

The tour starts at 09:30 and returns around 17:00.

Is hotel pickup included for this Ilhabela beach day trip?

No hotel pickup is included; free parking is available near departure.

Can cruise ship passengers join this Bonete beach tour?

No, this route is not allowed for cruise customers.

Are there any physical restrictions for joining?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant women or those with serious medical issues.

What beaches are visited during this superboat ride?

The main stops are Indaiaúba beach and Bonete beach on Ilhabela's southern coast.

Is lunch included on the Bonete & Indaiaúba day trip?

No lunch is included but food options are available in the caiçara village at Bonete beach.

What is the “dog hole” cave mentioned on the tour?

It’s a small sea cave along the route that guests can see up close during the boat ride.

What’s included

Your day covers passenger insurance for peace of mind and free parking near departure. You’ll travel with a local guide who shares stories along the way; meals aren’t included but you can buy fresh fish or snacks in Bonete village before returning late afternoon.