Ilhabela, São Paulo, Brazil

Porto São Pedro

Porto São Pedro, locally called 'Porto Secreto', is a small natural cove on the southern coast of Ilhabela, São Paulo, reached by a 150-meter trail through Atlantic Forest from Praia do Veloso. Sheltered by rocky outcrops, the cove forms a calm, clear-water pool ideal for snorkeling and entry-level shore dives. Entry is via a small wooden ramp between the rocks. Marine life typical of southeast Brazil — sergeant majors, parrotfish, surgeonfish, wrasses, blennies, octopus and occasional small rays — can be seen on shallow descents. Currents are weak and swell minimal with offshore winds; best visited from December to March. The site lies within the APA Marinha do Litoral Norte.