Ilha das Couves
A small island off the northern coast with white sand and crystal-clear water, nicknamed 'the Caribbean of Ubatuba'. Snorkelling here reveals sea turtles and shoals of fish.
Ilha das Couves lies offshore from Picinguaba in northern Ubatuba. The island has no residents and no facilities. Its two small beaches have water so clear you can see the bottom, and in the shallows you can snorkel among tropical fish and starfish. If you're lucky, you may spot sea turtles. On social media it is often called 'Brazil's Maldives'. To get there, take a local fishing boat or speedboat from the Picinguaba fishing village or from Praia da Almada. The crossing takes about 15 to 25 minutes, and the round-trip fare is about 60 to 100 reais per person. You can arrange a pickup time with the boatman. Notes: The island has no restaurants or toilets, so bring your own water and food and take your rubbish with you. In peak season visitor numbers are controlled, so book your boat in advance. Boats do not sail when the waves are rough.
Opening hours
Daytime (follows boat schedule, about 08:00–17:00)
Nearby sights
- Picinguaba
- Praia da Fazenda
- Praia da Almada
- Ilha do Prumirim & Praia do Prumirim
- Praia do Puruba
- Cachoeira do Prumirim
- Praia do Félix
- Praia de Itamambuca