Camping Garatucaia

Be sure to take a day trip (or several) across the bay to the spectacular Ilha Grande, where the big draw is the number of stunning beaches that line the coast. Go into adventurer mode to wander the forests, stumbling across waterfalls, pools and caves, then return to the sands for surfing, swims and eateries. It’s a five-minute drive from the site to the ferry pier, and crossings to the island are usually between 15 and 50 minutes long, depending on the boat. For afternoons of shopping, sightseeing and eating, Angra dos Reis is a good first step. The seaside town has shops and museums to explore and some photoworthy buildings to snap up, not to mention a pretty little beach for changes of scenery. The colonial streets of Paraty two hours away, are also well worth a visit: saunter among colourful houses, learn something at the museums or the houses of culture, or step into the past at the 18th-century Forte Defensor Perpétuo, originally designed to defend gold from passing pirates. In need of something a little more lively? Two hours away in Rio de Janeiro, the open arms of Christ the Redeemer are beckoning, the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema await, and the carnival vibes are in full swing... Climb the Escaderia Selaron, smell the roses in the botanical gardens, or do something daring by hang gliding or paragliding (or hitching a ride on the cable car) over the city.