Best things to do in Fernando de Noronha

Unwind at Baia do Sancho, a secluded beach and bay on UNESCO-protected Fernando de Noronha Island. Repeatedly voted the world's best beach, this stretch of sand lies nestled in a sheltered cove with crystal-clear emerald waters. Rocky slabs in the central part of the water support a diversity of marine life and provide excellent snorkeling opportunities. Observe sea turtles and corals, and enjoy swimming without damaging the wildlife. Accessible by boat or via a narrow staircase down the cliffs, the beach is home to native plants and birds. From February to June, rainwater forms two waterfalls spouting from the clifftop.

Part of a national marine park, Atalaia Beach invites travelers to explore its aquarium-like shallow natural pool, the largest one on the island. Nestled in a cove protected by a reef, the beach features a narrow strip of land covered with soft golden sand and round black stones, evidence of the island's volcanic history. Though snorkeling in the 40 cm (16 in) deep pool at low tide is ideal for beginners, experienced snorkelers may find it not stimulating enough.

Behold the magnificent Dois Irmãos, two striking “brother” islands of rock protruding from the ocean. Should they look familiar to you it is because they grace the front of many a Fernando de Noronha postcard, but these images pale in comparison to seeing them for real. Enjoy a delicious portion of fish in banana leaves--cooked and sold on the beach--while you marvel at the sight. Praia do Cacimba do Padre is also a surfer’s paradise, with waves considered some of the best in the country, and home to an annual surfing competition. The beach is a known spawning ground of sea turtles, too, so you must follow strict guidelines to not to disturb any nests. You might even get the opportunity to watch eggs hatch.

Enjoy the calm sea and gentle waves at Praia do Sueste, the southeast bay on Fernando do Noronha Island. Rich marine life provides plenty of snorkeling opportunities and three nearby islands await exploration. As one of the main feeding grounds for sea turtles, the area enjoys protection; expect a good deal of seaweed, and designated diving sites. The bay's mangrove forest represents a true rarity, seen nowhere else on an island. Explore the nearby fort, guarding the entrance to the bay where a Dutch squadron landed in 1629.

Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park is home to clear waters, rich marine life, and picture-perfect tropical scenery. The area shelters the highest concentration of dolphins in the world and offers arguably some of the best beaches in all of Brazil.

Diving and snorkeling with experienced guides may be the best way to explore the waters of Fernando de Noronha, a World Heritage-listed archipelago of over 20 stunning islands. These adventures allow you to dive or snorkel in unspoiled waters of a marine national park guided by a PADI diving instructor, who'll not only keep you safe, but also point out local marine life, like dolphins, humpback whales, sea turtles, and other species. Most tours last a few hours, but longer full-day options often include other family-friendly activities, like cruises and hikes.

Experience a tropical paradise atFernado de Noronha Island. Pearly white beaches and turquoise waters infested with dolphins, turtles, and friendly sharks draw naturalists and marine biologists to this fiercely protected eco-destination, 350 km (271 mi) off the northeast coast of Brazil. After exploring the colorful underwater world, rent a dune buggy and embark on an off-road adventure around the island. To get a glimpse of the life on the island before the modern tourist era, see the remains of an old prison. A limited number of tourists are permitted on the island, so plan ahead.

Frequently listed in “Top 10” lists, this is the wildest of all Fernando de Noronha’s beaches, and the least busy. More often than not, when you visit it will be just you and a lonesome lifeguard at his post. Located on the southeast side of the island, when you look out at the “outside sea” you can’t help but notice the beach’s namesake, a large rock formation resembling a sea lion in repose. Praia do Leão has the highest rate of sea turtle spawning in the area, and while there are heavy regulations in place to protect the animals, it is possible for you to witness the hatchlings make their way over the reddish sands to the ocean. The raw beauty of Praia do Leão makes this awesome event all the more special.

The closest thing to a private beach without actually being one, Conceicao Beach provides serenity and solitude under an expansive Brazilian sky. The tidal pools are full of life, and it’s not uncommon to see a local fisherman throwing nets over the top of them in hopes of snagging a catch before the birds do. While the fishermen are hard at work, you'll be discovering the meaning of paradise as you walk amongst the coconut trees that line the sand and sip on a cocktail from one of the cabanas where you'll watch the sun sink behind the blue waters.

Unwind in a South Atlantic paradise at Baia dos Porcos, ranked the among best beaches in Brazil. This 100 m (330 ft) long rock-studded stretch of white sand features turquoise waters, including many pools with colorful fish sheltered by high walls of black stone. Snorkel out by two spectacular rugged boulders just off the shore. Expect to navigate some rocky terrain, which makes the beach rather difficult to access.

A rock formation sticking out of the Atlantic Ocean, Morro dois Irmaos sits next to one of Brazil's prettiest beaches. The two rocks jutting out of the water provide a striking backdrop to the sandy coastline.

Climb the ruins of an 18th-century fortress at Forte Sao Pedro do Boldro, a hilltop observation deck. Exploration of this archeological site will give you plenty of panoramic views of the bay and twin limestone islands just off the coast. A clifftop bar serves drinks and snacks in the later part of the day; try munguza, a local white corn delicacy with milk, sugar, cloves, and cinnamon. Many people gather to watch the sunset here--if coming for this, arrive early for a good spot.

The calm waters of Praia do Cachorro are translucent emerald green and the beach is soft sand or pebbles depending on the season. Breathtakingly beautiful, it sits below the ruins of Vila dos Remédios. The name comes from a bronze fountain in the shape of a dog’s head that no longer exists, but the fresh water spring still flows. A naturally formed plunge pool called “The Hole in the Galacian” can be found in the rocks surrounding the cove. A snorkel lets you admire the colorful sponges covering its walls. Overlooking the beach, you will find the lively Bar do Cachorro, serving delicious food and cold beer.

Walk around the fort and its defensive system of walls built by the Portuguese in the 18th century at Fortaleza N S dos Remedios. The walls are 2.9 m (9.5 ft) high, and 3.5 m (11.5 ft) wide at the base and 3 m (10 ft) at the top, and at its peak the fort had 27 cannons, some of which you can still see. Climb to the top of the 11 m (36 ft) tower in the centre of the fort and see all the way to the neighboring islands. You'll enjoy particularly beautiful views of sea around sunset.