🏝️ Hostels in Ilha Grande for Backpackers & Solo Travellers: Car-Free Island, Jungle Trails & Beaches
Planning Ilha Grande in 2026? This green island off the Costa Verde, between Rio de Janeiro and Paraty, has no cars, so you get around on foot or by boat. Expect rainforest trails, quiet coves and a laid-back village where backpackers usually end up staying longer than planned.
🏠 Where to Stay in Ilha Grande
Most hostels on Ilha Grande are in or near Vila do Abraão, the main village where the boats arrive. Hostelworld.com lists over 13 Hostels in Ilha Grande, all rated by travellers like you, with more than 8130 reviews. In Ilha Grande hostels you can usually find:
- Dorms and private rooms a short walk from the beach
- Hammocks, gardens and relaxed common areas
- Shared kitchens for cheap meals
- Help with boat trips and trail tips
💡 Pro tip: Cash machines on the island may be limited or out of order, so it is worth bringing some cash with you.
🏆 Top Hostels to Stay in Ilha Grande in 2026
Looking for top-rated Hostels in Ilha Grande? According to Hostelworld.com travellers, these are two crowd favourites:
🗺️ Neighbourhoods to Explore
- Vila do Abraão – The main village, with the pier, beach bars, shops and most hostels
- Lopes Mendes – A long white-sand beach often listed among Brazil's finest, reached by trail or boat
- Lagoa Azul – A clear, sheltered bay usually visited on boat trips for snorkelling
- Dois Rios – A quiet beach on the far side, near the ruins of an old prison
- Aventureiro – A remote fishing village and beach on the south side, inside a protected area
⛴️ Getting Around Ilha Grande
- From the airport: Fly into Rio de Janeiro, then take a transfer or bus to the mainland ports
- Boats: Ferries and speedboats usually run from Angra dos Reis and Conceição de Jacareí
- Walking: Marked trails connect Abraão with beaches across the island
- Water taxis: Small boats can drop you at beaches if you don't want to hike back
🥾 Hiking on Ilha Grande
Much of the island is protected Atlantic Forest, and hiking is a well-loved way to see it. Popular trails lead to Lopes Mendes, the Feiticeira waterfall and Dois Rios. Pico do Papagaio, the island's parrot-shaped peak, is a steep climb usually done with a guide, often to catch the sunrise.
💡 Pro tip: Start hikes early, carry plenty of water and insect repellent, and check how long the trail takes before you set off.
🌍 Want More Hostel Adventures?
Check out other top-rated hostels across Brazil → Brazil Hostels
