The 7 Best Islands in Paraty to Visit by Boat: Crystal Waters and Secret Beaches

Paraty Bay is home to over 65 idyllic tropical islands scattered across calm, emerald waters sheltered by the dramatic peaks of the Serra da Bocaina rainforest. While mainland beaches can be reached by car or trails, the offshore islands boast the clearest waters, best snorkeling, and richest marine life on Brazil's Green Coast (Costa Verde).

Taking a boat tour — whether aboard a festive shared schooner or renting a private speedboat charter — is unanimously considered the top thing to do when visiting Paraty.

1. The 7 Must-Visit Islands in Paraty Bay

1. Ilha dos Cocos: The Tropical Caribbean of Paraty

Situated on the outer bay, Ilha dos Cocos features breathtaking turquoise waters reminiscent of the Caribbean. Because it is further out from the harbor, it is primarily reached by private speedboats and specialty tours. It is an extraordinary spot for floating with sea turtles, stingrays, and surgeonfish among the rocky seabed.

2. Ilha Comprida: The Natural Marine Aquarium

Ilha Comprida is the signature stop on nearly every Paraty schooner tour. As soon as boats drop anchor, schools of friendly sergeant-major fish gather around swimmers. With gentle currents and shallow depths (2 to 5 meters), it is completely safe and effortless for beginners and kids wearing life vests or noodle floats.

3. Ilha do Pelado: Sandy Beaches & Fresh Seafood Kiosks

Unlike rocky islets, Ilha do Pelado features gentle white-sand beaches with calm, warm shallows. Rustic beach shacks right on the sand serve grilled fresh fish, calamari, and cold caipirinhas made with Paraty's renowned artisanal cachaça. It can be accessed via short boat shuttles from São Gonçalo beach or via private boat charters.

4. Ilha da Pescaria: Snorkeling & Relaxation

Tucked between Ilha Comprida and Ilha da Cutia, this sheltered cove forms a natural emerald swimming pool surrounded by boulders covered with sea anemones and starfish. It offers a tranquil escape for travelers looking to swim away from crowds.

5. Ilha dos Meros: Scuba Diving Paradise

On the northern edge of the bay, Ilha dos Meros is the premier scuba diving hotspot. Underwater visibility often exceeds 15 meters on sunny days, allowing divers to explore deep rock walls, octopuses, and docile goliath groupers (Meros).

6. Ilha do Mantimento and 7. Ilha da Sapeca

These two scenic islets showcase pristine native flora. Ilha do Mantimento is covered by dense rainforest canopy and inhabited by small marmoset monkeys, while Ilha da Sapeca provides sweeping panoramic vistas of the surrounding bay and coastal mountains.

2. Schooner Cruise vs. Private Speedboat Charter

Choosing between a shared schooner and a private speedboat depends on your travel style and budget:

• Shared Schooner Cruise ($18 to $26 USD per person): Unbeatable value for solo travelers, couples, and families. Includes comfortable shaded seating, bathroom facilities, bar service, and 4 scheduled 40-minute stops.
• Private Speedboat Charter ($180 to $450 USD per boat/day): Ideal for groups of 4 to 10 guests. You dictate your schedule, escape the crowds, reach distant spots like Ilha dos Cocos earlier, and stay as long as you wish at each island.

3. Where to Stay Near Paraty Tourist Pier

Because island boat tours depart promptly between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM from the Paraty Pier (Cais de Turismo), staying in the car-free Historic Center or nearby Pontal allows you to walk to the docks in under 10 minutes without worrying about parking.

Here are 3 handpicked hotels and boutique inns (pousadas) for boat tour lovers:

4. Practical Tips for Your Day on the Water

• What to bring: Biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen, beach towel, sunglasses, hat, and a dry bag for cameras and smartphones.
• Snorkel gear: Most schooners offer mask and snorkel rentals for about R$ 20 (~$4 USD). If you have your own gear, bring it along!
• Onboard dining: Schooners feature lunch menus prepared on board (orders are placed during the first cruise leg). Options include fresh local fish, chicken, and vegetarian pasta.
• Book in advance: During weekends, holidays, and summer months (December to March), popular boats sell out early. Online booking ensures guaranteed boarding passes without waiting in ticket lines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paraty Islands

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