Sao Paolo & Brazil's Green Coast

The Green Coast is a resort area just hours from Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Here, amid the many unspoiled beaches, mountains and waterfalls, you can find lush island hideaways once used by pirates. The region takes its name from the striking color of the Ilha Grande Bay, considered one of the most beautiful coastlines in Brazil. The main destinations are Paraty and the mostly uninhabited island of Ilha Grande. There are in fact 365 islands, one for every day of the year, as the locals like to say. To make the most of your trip you should visit them, at least on a day cruise. Angra dos Reis is mainly a jumping-off point, but if you're short of time, there are some good resorts with diving and boat trips. This is also the main point of departure to the islands. The most famous destination is Ilha Grande, a National Park with rustic settlements where you can also go hiking, sailing or diving. Paraty is a charming and quaint historic city, with cobbled streets and first-rate hospitality. The beaches of the region are nicer the farther you go from the cities. The Green Coast tends to get crowded during the Brazilian summer and holidays. If you explore a bit, you can find amazing destinations amid the seemingly endless bays, mangrove stands, palm-lined beaches, and rocky coasts around each bend in the coastline.