Things To Do
in Angra dos Reis
Angra dos Reis is a sun-kissed coastal municipality in Rio de Janeiro state, known for its stunning island-dotted seascape. It sits along a crescent of emerald waters that cradle hundreds of islands, including the famed Ilha Grande. The town serves as a gateway to island-hopping, pristine beaches, and lush Atlantic forest reserves.
Visitors come for sailing, snorkeling, seafood, and a relaxed Brazilian beach-town atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Angra dos Reis and check into your accommodation. Start your day with a fresh tropical breakfast overlooking the bay. Take a leisurely stroll along Praia Grande to soak in the serene ocean views.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Praia do Anil. Visit local markets to browse fresh fruits and handmade crafts. Have a light lunch at a beachfront restaurant specializing in regional seafood dishes.
Watch a stunning sunset from the pier as the sky turns vibrant hues. Dine at a nearby restaurant offering traditional Brazilian cuisine with live music. Take a gentle evening walk along the beach to unwind.
Embark early on a boat tour to explore the nearby islands such as Ilha da Gipoia. Snorkel in crystal clear waters to discover the rich marine life and coral reefs. Enjoy a picnic breakfast on board with fresh tropical juices.
Stop at a secluded beach on Ilha Cataguases for sunbathing and beach games. Have lunch at a local beach bar serving freshly grilled fish and caipirinhas. Continue island hopping to Ilha Grande, exploring hidden coves and trails.
Return to Angra dos Reis and freshen up before dinner. Experience the nightlife by visiting a beachfront bar with live samba music. Relax with a cocktail while enjoying views of the illuminated harbor.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-50 |
| 🏨1-night stay in mid-range hotel | $50-120 |
| 🚕1-way taxi ride | $5-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning island scenery and beaches
- Excellent base for Ilha Grande adventures
- Warm, welcoming Brazilian hospitality
- Travel can be time-consuming to access some islands
- Peak-season crowds and higher prices
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu não entendo" - I don't understand
- "Pode recomendar um restaurante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Angra dos Reis
Visit one of these nice places.
A clifftop vantage with sweeping views over the harbor and surrounding islands at sunset.
Long, pristine white-sand beach framed by dense green mountains—great for wide-angle ocean shots.
Iconic leaning palm tree on the sand with turquoise water—classic island postcard.
Colorful boats, fishing nets, and pedestrian docks—ideal for morning light and candid harbor scenes.
Food in Angra dos Reis
Angra dos Reis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish stew with coconut milk and dendê oil, typically served with rice and farofa.
Must-Try!
Creamy shrimp puree cooked with cassava, coconut milk, and palm oil, often accompanied by rice.
Lobster prepared with garlic and olive oil, a coastal favorite on many menus.
Simple fish broth enjoyed as a starter or light meal after a boat excursion.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market with fresh fish, prawns, tropical fruits, and juice stalls.
Tapioca pancakes, fresh coconut water, grilled corn, and street snacks right by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bom dia', 'Boa tarde' or 'Oi'; a handshake or kiss on the cheek is common among friends.
Portuguese is the primary language; learning a few phrases helps; English is more common in tourist spots.
Avoid littering on beaches; follow local park rules and respect wildlife and private property.
Safety
Tipping in Angra dos Reis
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 10-15% is common if service is not included. For tour guides and drivers, small tips are appreciated.
Cash is accepted widely, but credit/debit cards are common in towns; many places offer PIX and bank transfers as well.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent tropical showers; sea is warm and calm, ideal for beach days and snorkeling.
Still warm but less rain; sea remains clear; great for boat trips with fewer crowds.
Milder temperatures, cooler nights; water can be cooler but still pleasant for outdoor activities.
Pleasant weather with sunny days and blooming landscapes; good for hiking and island-hopping.
Angra dos Reis at Night
Hiking in Angra dos Reis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rewarding hike with forested trails and panoramic views over the island and sea.
Long-day trek from Abraão to Dois Rios, crossing rivers and forest with scenic viewpoints.
Cascading rainforest trail leading to the famous leaning palm at Aventureiro Beach.
Forest-to-sea viewpoint offering sweeping coastal views.
Airports
How to reach Angra dos Reis by plane.
Primary international gateway to the region; transfers to Angra by road or sea take several hours. Expect taxis, shuttles, or private transfers.
Downtown Rio airport; shorter flight times to regional destinations, but longer ground transfer to Angra.
Nearby smaller airport used for charter flights and regional connections to Ilha Grande and Angra; check current schedules.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local Brazilian families, fishing communities, and service workers; many speak Portuguese with varying English proficiency in tourist areas.
Brazilian and international visitors seeking beaches, nature, and island adventures.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A natural fit for the windy coastal waters and island-hopping routes around Angra dos Reis.
Calm bays provide easy paddling and exploration of lagoons.
Common on public beaches during sunny days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Angra dos Reis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seafood-focused menus but many places offer vegetarian options like salads, risottos, and tapioca; ask for queijo and legumes or moqueca de palmito.