THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Escape Rio for a full-day on Ilha do Bernardo: a protected private island reachable by a 30–45 minute boat ride from Itacuruçá. Enjoy short hikes, turquoise beaches, a chef-led barbecue and a sunset sail back across the bay.
Escape Rio for a full-day on Ilha do Bernardo: a protected private island reachable by a 30–45 minute boat ride from Itacuruçá. Enjoy short hikes, turquoise beaches, a chef-led barbecue and a sunset sail back across the bay.
You push off from Itacuruçá at dawn and the bay opens like a sheet of glass. Salt spray and sunlight tease the rails as the city shrinks behind you; dolphins often thread the wake, curious and fast. After a 30–45 minute crossing you drop anchor at Ilha do Bernardo, a five-hectare ecological sanctuary defined by pale sand, turquoise shallows and shady native scrub.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Ilha do Bernardo, Soul Adventures · Itacuruçá, Rio de Janeiro
You push off from Itacuruçá at dawn and the bay opens like a sheet of glass. Salt spray and sunlight tease the rails as the city shrinks behind you; dolphins often thread the wake, curious and fast. After a 30–45 minute crossing you drop anchor at Ilha do Bernardo, a five-hectare ecological sanctuary defined by pale sand, turquoise shallows and shady native scrub.
The island sits inside a dolphin protection area and reflects the coastal geology of Rio’s southern shore—granite outcrops meeting coral-sand beaches, with low ridgelines cut by seasonal streams. Culturally the site blends small-scale conservation with local hospitality: the eco-resort operates limited day-use access, supports guided short hikes (two primary trails), and serves grilled regional fare—an open-fire barbecue that emphasizes fresh, simple ingredients.
Expect two short trail options: an easy coastal loop through low forest and a slightly steeper ridge trail that delivers panoramic views of the bay and neighboring islands. Terrain is mostly sandy beach, compact dirt, and rocky steps; elevation gains are modest but can be uneven underfoot. Wildlife is active—besides dolphins you may see frigatebirds and small crabs along the shore.
Practical notes: plan for an all-day outing (roughly 11 hours total), bring reef-safe sunscreen, a small dry bag for belongings, and motion-sickness prevention if you’re sensitive on open water. Pickup is typically in Ipanema with an air-conditioned transfer to the yacht club; wear sturdy sandals or light trail shoes for hikes and allow time to enjoy the chef-prepared barbecue and a relaxed sunset sail back to Rio.
The maritime crossing from Itacuruçá typically takes 30–45 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions.
Yes — the tour includes a chef-prepared lunch featuring an open-fire Brazilian barbecue and local side dishes.
No — there are two primary hikes: an easy coastal loop and a slightly steeper ridge trail; both are short with modest elevation and uneven footing.
Bring government-issued ID or passport details as required by booking—passenger information is collected prior to travel and should be carried on the trip.
Ilha do Bernardo, Soul Adventures operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You push off from Itacuruçá at dawn and the bay opens like a sheet of glass. Salt spray and sunlight tease the rails as the city shrinks behind you; dolphins often thread the wake, curious and fast. After a 30–45 minute crossing you drop anchor at Ilha do Bernardo, a five-hectare ecological sanctuary defined by pale sand, turquoise shallows and shady native scrub.
You push off from Itacuruçá at dawn and the bay opens like a sheet of glass. Salt spray and sunlight tease the rails as the city shrinks behind you; dolphins often thread the wake, curious and fast. After a 30–45 minute crossing you drop anchor at Ilha do Bernardo, a five-hectare ecological sanctuary defined by pale sand, turquoise shallows and shady native scrub.
The island sits inside a dolphin protection area and reflects the coastal geology of Rio’s southern shore—granite outcrops meeting coral-sand beaches, with low ridgelines cut by seasonal streams. Culturally the site blends small-scale conservation with local hospitality: the eco-resort operates limited day-use access, supports guided short hikes (two primary trails), and serves grilled regional fare—an open-fire barbecue that emphasizes fresh, simple ingredients.
Expect two short trail options: an easy coastal loop through low forest and a slightly steeper ridge trail that delivers panoramic views of the bay and neighboring islands. Terrain is mostly sandy beach, compact dirt, and rocky steps; elevation gains are modest but can be uneven underfoot. Wildlife is active—besides dolphins you may see frigatebirds and small crabs along the shore.
Practical notes: plan for an all-day outing (roughly 11 hours total), bring reef-safe sunscreen, a small dry bag for belongings, and motion-sickness prevention if you’re sensitive on open water. Pickup is typically in Ipanema with an air-conditioned transfer to the yacht club; wear sturdy sandals or light trail shoes for hikes and allow time to enjoy the chef-prepared barbecue and a relaxed sunset sail back to Rio.