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This Remote Brazilian Island Is About to Become the Next Big Travel Destination--Here's Why

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 5:51 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Fernando de Noronha: Brazil’s Secluded Oceanic Jewel

Fernando de Noronha, a chain of 21 small islands in the Atlantic Ocean about 350 km (217 mi) off the coast of Recife, has long been a whispered secret of the Brazilian coast. Today it is a magnet for travelers who crave pristine beaches, crystal‑clear waters, and an atmosphere that feels untouched by mass tourism. A recent feature in Travel + Leisure offers an in‑depth look at what makes the archipelago an irresistible destination, and how to make the most of a visit while respecting the fragile ecosystem that surrounds it.

The Island’s History and Cultural Roots

The island’s name honors Fernando de Noronha, a 16th‑century Portuguese navigator who charted the region in 1503. For centuries it was a strategic military outpost, a penal colony, and later a haven for smuggler‑pirates. The 19th‑century Portuguese government officially closed the colony, and the island became a remote, sparsely inhabited refuge for fishermen. The small population of around 4,000 residents today blends Portuguese, African, and Indigenous influences, and their traditions are woven into the fabric of everyday life, from the local bacalhau to the rhythmic drumming of the batuques that echo across the streets of Vila dos Remédios, the main settlement.

The article details how this heritage is reflected in the island’s architecture—a mix of colonial white‑washed houses, red‑tiled roofs, and the iconic red‑brick watchtower that crowns the main beach. Visitors are encouraged to explore the village markets, where handcrafted ceramics and fresh tropical fruit are sold beside stories of the island’s past.

Nature’s Masterpiece: Beaches, Reefs, and Wildlife

Fernando de Noronha is a natural wonderland. According to the piece, the archipelago is home to more than 350 species of marine life, making it one of the world’s richest marine ecosystems. The islands’ coral reefs are a diver’s paradise; in the waters surrounding the main island, you’ll see everything from majestic sea turtles to schools of barracuda and even the elusive manta ray. The article highlights that the best diving spots—Morro Branco, Lagos and Maracajá—are protected marine parks, with strict regulations that require a diving pass issued by the local Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade.

The beaches themselves are almost too beautiful to be real. Praia do Sancho, often ranked as the world’s best beach, is a secluded cove accessed by a steep staircase. Here, the turquoise water is so clear that you can see the seagrass beds and the tiny fish that glide between them. Other top spots include Praia do Meio, with its black volcanic sand, and Praia do Atalaia, where a dramatic cliff offers a dramatic backdrop to sunsets over the horizon.

The island also boasts a rich terrestrial ecosystem. The interior of the main island hosts dry forest patches, home to the endemic red‑toe frog and various reptiles that are a treat for wildlife photographers. The article urges travelers to respect the fragile vegetation by staying on marked trails.

Activities: From Water Sports to Cultural Immersion

The piece outlines the full spectrum of activities available to visitors:

• Snorkeling & Diving – The island’s clear waters and abundant marine life make snorkeling a must. For more experienced divers, the dive sites are well‑mapped, with dive centers offering guided trips and courses.
• Kayaking & Stand‑Up Paddleboarding – The calm bays are ideal for paddlers who want to explore mangroves and the lagoon.
• Hiking & Birdwatching – The main island’s interior trails, such as the Caminho das Gáveas, reward hikers with panoramic ocean views and sightings of endemic bird species.
• Surfing – While not the island’s main draw, the southern waves of Cais do Porto are a niche spot for advanced surfers.
• Cultural Tours – Guided walks through Vila dos Remédios allow visitors to learn about local traditions, visit the Museu de Arqueologia, and taste the island’s signature cuscuz.

The article notes that many of these activities are guided by local tour operators, which is strongly recommended because of the strict environmental regulations. Independent exploration is discouraged, especially outside of designated trails.

Conservation, Regulations & Responsible Travel

Fernando de Noronha is part of the Parque Nacional Marinho (Marine National Park), and as such, there are stringent rules governing tourism. The article explains that:

• Only 50,000 tourists are allowed on the main island per year; this limit has been gradually increased from an initial cap of 15,000 to protect the fragile environment.
• Visitors must purchase a visita pass at the port, which funds conservation efforts.
• Each tourist is limited to a single boat tour per day to reduce marine traffic.
• Food and waste management is tightly controlled; all trash must be packed out or disposed of in designated facilities.

These measures have resulted in a dramatic improvement in coral health and a noticeable decline in beach erosion. Travelers are urged to bring reusable water bottles, avoid single‑use plastics, and follow the island’s “Leave No Trace” policy.

Getting There & Getting Around

Travelers typically fly from Recife to the island’s airport on the main island. The article suggests that booking in advance is essential because the limited number of flights can fill up quickly, especially during the peak season (June to September). There are also charter services from Natal, but they are less frequent.

Once on the island, the main form of transportation is a 1.5‑hour boat ride between islands, available for both day trips and longer excursions. The article recommends booking these trips through reputable operators who follow the island’s environmental guidelines.

Accommodation: Luxury, Mid‑Range, and Budget Options

Fernando de Noronha offers a range of lodging that caters to different budgets:

• Luxury – The Noronha Hotel and Pousada Lages offer beachfront suites, private pools, and gourmet dining.
• Mid‑Range – Pousada Vitoria and Hotel Cais de Porto provide comfortable rooms with easy access to the main beach.
• Budget – For travelers on a tight budget, Casa Pousada and Hotel Vila dos Remédios offer modest rooms in the village, often with a complimentary local meal.

The article emphasizes that all accommodations must adhere to the same environmental standards, meaning many hotels have implemented solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and waste‑reduction programs.

Best Time to Visit and Packing Tips

The archipelago’s climate is tropical, with dry season from May to November and a wetter season from December to April. The best time for diving and snorkeling is during the dry season when water visibility is at its peak. However, the summer months (January–March) see a surge in tourist activity, so visitors seeking quieter experiences should consider early spring or late autumn.

Packing recommendations include:

• Reef‑safe sunscreen (non‑ozone‑depleting)
• A wide‑brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses
• Comfortable hiking shoes for island trails
• A reusable water bottle and a small backpack for day trips
• A waterproof phone case or camera bag

The article also notes that many visitors find it worthwhile to bring a small notebook for sketching or writing, as the island’s landscapes inspire artists across the globe.

Final Thoughts

Fernando de Noronha is more than a picturesque beach destination; it is a living laboratory for marine conservation, a testament to sustainable tourism, and a vibrant community that preserves centuries of culture while welcoming curious travelers. The Travel + Leisure piece does an admirable job of weaving together natural beauty, human stories, and practical travel advice, offering a comprehensive guide that encourages visitors to explore responsibly and with reverence. For anyone who has ever dreamed of walking on a world‑class beach, discovering hidden reefs, and experiencing a community that values its heritage as much as its environment, Fernando de Noronha is the destination that should be at the top of your list.