Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park

Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park is a protected marine and coastal area around the Fernando de Noronha archipelago off Brazil’s northeast coast and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The reserve safeguards coral reefs, marine fauna and important nesting beaches for sea turtles.

The park offers world-class snorkeling and scuba diving with clear water and extensive reef systems, plus several high-quality beaches such as Baía do Sancho and sheltered coves where dolphins are frequently seen. Day tours and boat trips focus on marine wildlife - especially dolphins, sea turtles and reef fish - and most popular beaches are reached by short hikes or by boat.

The archipelago has long been recognized for its ecological importance and was placed under federal protection as a marine park to conserve terrestrial and marine habitats and regulate tourism. It is managed to balance visitor access with strict conservation measures and research activities.

The islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean off Brazil’s northeastern coast and are reached by air from the mainland; the visitor settlement is on the main island and most activities radiate from there.

• Access and fees: Entry to the protected area is regulated and visitors pay a conservation fee on arrival; access to many beaches is controlled to limit environmental impact.
• Diving and wildlife: Water visibility for diving commonly exceeds 20 meters and the marine park protects reefs, coral formations and important turtle nesting beaches, making it a top site for scuba diving in Brazil.

What to See #

• Baía do Sancho: A steep-walled bay on the island often ranked among the world's best beaches for swimming and snorkeling, reached by a steep stairway and boat routes from the main village.
• Baía dos Golfinhos (Dolphin Bay): A sheltered bay where a resident population of spinner dolphins is regularly seen at dawn and dusk; a common departure point for dive trips.
• Vila dos Remédios: The main settlement and visitor hub on the island; contains visitor services, dive operators and access points for protected trails and lookouts.