Camping Acorde

Beaches, beaches, beaches… like any self-respecting tropical island Ilha Grande is well served with stretches of sand, most only accessible on foot or by boat. The most famed of all is Praia Lopes Mendes, which frequently crops up on lists of the world's finest beaches. Trek for an hour from the site and you'll be rewarded with three kilometres of soft sand, swishing palm trees and surfboard rentals to hit the waves. For local pottering, the little coves around Vila do Abraão are fab spots for those looking to hone their kayaking or paddleboarding techniques. Dedicated beach enthusiasts may instead choose to take in as many as possible on an island-hopping boat trip, which will take you off to more far-flung corners including gorgeous Lagoa Azul lagoon and the deserted beaches of the south-west marine reserve. Inland hikes are most fab here, too – the rainforests are pretty pristine, partly thanks to the island's past as a leper colony. Trail maps will lead you to swimming holes, a ruined prison and waterfalls, with company from parrots, monkeys and possibly even a shy capybara.