Paraty shares with Angra dos Reis the large
Bay of Ilha Grande, so you have a total of over
300 islands to choose from. The islands come in
all sizes, and they are covered in lush Mata
Atlantica rain forest. You don't have to go far
to reach wonderful spots for a dip or snorkeling.
The visibility ranges from 5 to 20 meters,
depending on sea currents and rain levels.
A couple of islands have restaurants and
kiosks if you get hungry. Keep in mind that some
of these islands are private-owned, and you are
not allowed to land on the beach. If your captain says no, don't insist. Do not touch starfish, sea
urchins, cucumbers and other cute sea creatures.
You may damage them, or even hurt yourself. And
don't you dare toss any garbage in the sea, or
we'll never invite you to Paraty again!
Ilha dos Ganchos
This island, right next to Paraty Bay, is often
used for scuba lessons. Sea cucumbers and sea
urchins in all colors, tropical fish, morays and
octopuses are easy to run into. The sandy bottom
has a depth of 11 meters.
Ilha Comprida
This is a favorite island with local operators.
With a maximum depth of 11 meters, this is where
many students take their diving tests. The rocks
near the island are home to groupers, bat fishes,
angel fishes, and striped sergeants. Ilha do
Catimbau, right next
door, has similar
features and a small bar with drinks and snacks.
Ilha dos Meros
This is considered the best diving area in
Paraty, with options for the novice and the more
experienced diver. The depth can reach 21 meters.
The large granite rocks with caves and tunnels
are a perfect shelter to marine life, including
corals.
Ilhote dos Meros, the
Meros Islet, is one of the prettiest islands.
Stingrays resting on the sandy bottom are easy to
find. Lobsters, crabs, parrot fishes, blue
surgeons, and sea horses are some among the many
other regulars.
Boia dos Meros is
for the more experienced diver. There may be
strong currents, and the depth reaches 27 meters.
The rocks are covered in coral, sponges and
assorted starfish. At the bottom there is a
wreckage of an old buoy.
