From Paraty to Angra dos Reis & Ilha Grande: Transport, Top Islands & Boat Tours
Quick Answer: The distance between Paraty and Angra dos Reis is approximately 95 km (59 miles) along the paved coastal BR-101 highway, taking about 1h15 to 1h30 by car or tourist transfer. You can easily do a 1-day trip to tour Angra's famous 365 islands (such as Botinas Islands and Dentista Beach) or use Angra / Conceição de Jacareí as your boat departure harbor to stay on car-free Ilha Grande (Vila do Abraão).
The stretch connecting Paraty to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande forms Brazil's legendary Green Coast (**Costa Verde**). Combining cobblestone colonial culture in Paraty with world-class island hopping in Angra and the untamed jungle trails of Ilha Grande is widely considered Brazil's premier coastal itinerary.
1. Getting from Paraty to Angra dos Reis
- By Rental Car (1h15 - 1h30): Direct drive north along the BR-101 highway with gorgeous bay views. Secure paid parking is available right near Santa Luzia Pier.
- By Public Bus (Colitur Line): Regular daily buses depart Paraty’s main terminal to Angra dos Reis bus terminal. The fare is roughly $4 USD (R$ 20) and takes about 2 hours.
- By Shared Tourist Van & Boat Combo: Popular direct shuttle services pick you up at your Paraty pousada and take you straight to the boat docks connecting with Ilha Grande.
2. Must-See Islands in the Bay of Angra
Angra's true magic lies in its archipelago. The best speedboats (*lanchas*) and catamarans depart from Santa Luzia dock to explore:
- Botinas Islands (Twin Islands): The iconic postcard of Angra. Two steep rocky islets surrounded by neon-clear turquoise water with up to 10 meters of visibility. Perfect for snorkeling with marine life.
- Cataguases Island: Powder-white sand and calm shallow swimming waters bordered by native pitanga trees.
- Dentista Beach (Gipoia Island): The playground of luxury yachts and sailing catamarans, featuring floating bars that deliver chilled oysters and caipirinhas directly to your boat.
Angra dos Reis & Blue Lagoon Speedboat Tours
Experience Botinas Islands, Blue Lagoon, and secluded beaches with verified operators and 24h free cancellation via Viator.
3. Extending Your Journey to Ilha Grande
If you plan to stay on magical Ilha Grande after Paraty:
- Take a shuttle or drive to Conceição de Jacareí (the fastest boat crossing, only 20 minutes by fast flexboat).
- Arrive at Vila do Abraão, the charming pedestrian-only village filled with beachfront bistros, live samba bars, and eco-lodges.
- Join boat excursions to the Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul) and hike to the world-famous Lopes Mendes Beach.
4. Day Trip vs Split Stay Recommendation
- 1-Day Trip: Great if you just want to do the Angra Islands Speedboat Cruise. Leave Paraty around 07:30 AM, enjoy the boat tour from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and return in the evening.
- Combined Stay: For a 6 to 8-day vacation, the ideal split is 3–4 nights in Paraty + 2–3 nights in Ilha Grande. It is the ultimate Costa Verde experience!