Ilhabela: Jeep Tour to Castelhanos Beach & Waterfalls

Summary

Castelhanos Beach day by jeep with waterfalls and mountain lookout

You’ll ride through Ilhabela State Park by jeep with a local guide, stopping to swim in waterfalls and catch sweeping views from a mountain lookout before relaxing at Castelhanos Beach. Expect real rainforest air, lively stories from your driver, time for lunch by the sea—and maybe a few muddy shoes as souvenirs.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is how our driver, Paulo, grinned when we hit the first bump leaving Ilhabela’s main road. “Now you’ll feel the island,” he said. I was wedged between two new friends in the back of an open jeep, wind full of that green smell you only get in Atlantic rainforest. We’d barely started and my shoes were already dusty — not complaining though, it felt right for a day heading deep into Ilhabela State Park.

The trail to Castelhanos Beach isn’t short — about 22 km of twisting up and down through thick forest. Paulo stopped now and then so we could stretch our legs or dunk our faces in cold water at a couple of waterfalls (I still think about that first shock of cold on my neck). He pointed out some birds I’d never have noticed, all color flashes and weird calls. At one point he tried teaching us the name for a tree in Portuguese — I probably butchered it but he laughed anyway.

Climbing up to the lookout at 700 meters, everything went quiet for a second except for some cicadas buzzing like crazy. The view just sort of opened up below us: Castelhanos Beach curving way off into the distance, not crowded at all even though it’s supposed to be Ilhabela’s biggest. Sun was hot but not too much wind — perfect for photos if you’re into that (I am, but mostly just wanted to sit there and stare).

Lunch was on our own once we finally rolled down to Castelhanos — plenty of little places right by the sand where you can grab something fresh and salty. Some people napped or swam; I just walked along the edge of the water until my feet went numb. On the way back Paulo let us ride up front for a bit, which made me realize how much work goes into steering those old jeeps over roots and rocks. So yeah, if you want a day trip from Ilhabela that’s more than just lying on a beach, this jeep tour really sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jeep tour and beach visit in Ilhabela

• Guide explains stops inside park
• Jeep tour through Ilhabela State Park
• Stop for photos and bath at waterfalls
• Climb to 700 meters lookout
• View Castelhanos beach from lookout
• Arrive at Castelhanos beach
• Rest, eat, and relax at beach

Top questions

How long does the jeep tour to Castelhanos Beach take?

The tour departs at 10:00 and returns around 18:00—about 8 hours total.

Are waterfall swims included on this Ilhabela jeep tour?

Yes, there are stops for photos and swimming at two waterfalls inside Ilhabela State Park.

Is lunch included during the day trip to Castelhanos?

No, lunch is not included but there are good eating options at Castelhanos Beach where you can buy your meal.

What’s the highest point reached during this tour?

The route climbs up to 700 meters altitude at a lookout with views over Castelhanos Beach.

Is hotel pickup included in this Ilhabela jeep tour?

The tour includes round-trip transportation but does not specify hotel pickup; check with your provider.

Is this jeep tour suitable for everyone?

The tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health—but it suits most fitness levels otherwise.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport through Ilhabela State Park in an open jeep with a local guide who explains each stop along the way; plenty of time for photos and swimming at two waterfalls; plus free hours to eat or rest right on Castelhanos Beach before heading back in the evening.