evidence: A Local's Guide to Ilhabela: South-East Brazil's Most Popular Weekend Escape Ilhabela is one of the most sought-after getaway destinations for Brazilians in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, with its beautiful beaches, waterfalls and unspoiled Atlantic rainforest. This archipelago, situated on the western side of the gorgeous Litoral Norte coastline, is beautiful even in name (ilha bela is Portuguese for ‘beautiful island’) so here’s all you need to know to have an unforgettable visit. [...] Ilha das Cabras is one of the many tiny islands forming the archipelago of Ilhabela and is one of the best spots to see marine life around the island. Located just to the south of the ferry crossing, the tiny isle sits in front of the Pedras Miudas beach and is home to the Submarino Ecological Sanctuary, where divers and snorkelers can swim with turtles, starfish, seahorses and all kinds of beautiful fish.