Angra do Reis, King’s Bay in English, is one of Brazil’s most dazzling and breathtaking destinations. Composed of 365 islands and 2,000 beaches, Angra dos Reis is the tropical vacation destination of travelers' fantasies. The city’s center is reminiscent of smaller colonial cities and boasts amazing historical monuments, churches and architecture. Many exclusive resorts are located in the area, including the charming and intimate Pestana Angra with its bungallows on top of the hills. Ilha Grande, the largest island of the 365, serves as the main attraction and was used as the colonial center for pirates who originally settled there. Ocean tours and activities are widely available and provide the opportunity to visit the different islands and beaches as well as enjoy the exclusivity of their sandy shores.
This lovely little road on the mainland travels through panoramic forest to various beaches on the coastline. Only 18 km long, the road starts at the Naval School and then winds its way through Blue Tree Park. First stop is Praia do Bonfim quite popular for beach volleyball and football. Next is Praia das Gordas fondly called “beach of moms” as the plentiful shade protects little ones from sunburn. Continue on along Estrada do Contorno to Praia Grande. This is a very crowded and very popular beach with a lot of amenities including restaurants, bars, and paved parking.
Surrounded by large fig trees, Praia da Figueira is known for its clear waters. Praia Lagarto is usually deserted and is the perfect place to go for solitude. Praia da Gruta is accessed via a small trail and has lovely rock formations that form caves. Next on the circuit is Praia Tanguazinho that is often deserted as the trail to its shores can be rather difficult to navigate. Praia da Ribeira is a popular beach with many amenities including a natural pool and several bars and snack shacks. Finally, Beach Cove is known for its sunsets and is the perfect ending to the Estrada do Contorno.
Ponta Leste, part of the mainland is riddled with historical sites and stories. It is here The Aquidaba was shipwrecked. Evidence of the old train tracks that ran to Rio and Sao Paulo can still be seen and old cannons used to protect the area are still visible. A drive around the point will take the visitor to several beautiful beaches in the area. Praia do Coqueiro has a wonderful view of Ilha Grande as well as an old railway overpass. Praia Macieis is the most popular beach in the area. Praia Biscaia is the largest beach with several bars.
Praia Baleia is popular with families, as the waters are shallow and calm; a small path in the hillside leads down to this beach. Praia Tartaruga is only accessible through a condominium complex but is quite beautiful sitting at the foot of the mountains. For some solitude visit Praia Eguas located behind The Petrobras workers village. Located inside the Verolme Workers Village is Praia Jacuecanga with snack bars. Make this your last stop, as the views at sunset are stunning.
One of the larger islands off the coast there are beautiful beaches accessible only by boat. Seek privacy on Praia Pequena with room for only 1 boat to moor. Praia Jurubaiba is on of the favorite beaches in the area. The waters are calm and it is safe to moor in this bay. There are floating bars and snack boats. This area is popular for jet skiing. Expect to see the rich and famous on this beach. Another beach frequented by the rich and famous is Flechas Beach thanks to its well-known seafood restaurant. Praia Fazenda is a small quite beach with a bar and snack shack.
Praia Piedade is a popular beach for families with a small trail over to Praia das Flechas. One of the most picturesque beaches, Praia Morcego has some of the calmest and clearest waters. With a pier for motorboats, Praia Vitorino has plenty of shade, a bar and Asian restaurant as well as a lovely inn. Another beach with a popular seafood restaurant is Praia Armacao. Finally, the very isolated and quiet Praia Amaral is quite beautiful and home to a shellfish breeding zone.
For those who want to swim with the fishes in a live aquarium visit Lagoa Azul. Throw some bread in the water to attract the Sergeant fish and then dive on in. The sensation of all those fish swimming around you is quite unique. Part of a small fishing village, Praia Japaris has some delicious sea food restaurants. Visit this beach at night as the alga light up the water when agitated. Saco do Ceu or Sky Sack is a cove that is so calm visitors can see the stars reflected in the water at night. It is considered on of the most beautiful places on the island. The most popular beach on the island is Praia Lopes Mendes. It is frequented by surfers and divers. Praia Parnaioca is a perfect place for families to visit, as the water is clear and deep turquoise.
Praia Sul and Leste are very large beaches that are constantly pounded by heavy surf. A small rather treacherous path connects the two beaches. Praia Aventureiro is one of the loveliest beaches on the island. Look for the horizontal coconut tree. This is a good family beach with calm waters and a spectacular view. Praia Beach is part of Proveta Village, an evangelical community. Do not be surprised to see people swimming in their clothes. Praia Aracatiba is the most famous beach on the island and has plenty of amenities such as bars and seafood restaurants. Ask for fresh mussels and the waiter will dive in the water to get your dinner. Praia Longa is part of a tiny village. Its claim to fame is a waterfall on the beach.
Angra dos Reis is an amazing resort region for vacationers. With plenty of inns, hotels, 5 star resorts and homes for rent there is plenty of room of everyone. For the Eco-tourist there are also areas to camp near the beaches and in the mountains. Schooner trips take visitors on tours along the coast and around the islands. And, plenty of restaurants serve up the freshest seafood to be found anywhere. Angra do Reis is a perfect paradise for travelers seeking beauty, adventure and fun.
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