Ilha do Cardoso Island

Address: Ilha do Cardoso State Park, Cananéia, São Paulo, Brazil

Website: https://www.infraestruturameioambiente.sp.gov.br/

Hours: Park open year-round; visitor services and boat schedules vary seasonally

Admission: Parque Estadual fees may apply; check the São Paulo state parks website

Ilha do Cardoso is an island at the southern tip of São Paulo state, Brazil, that forms a protected area focusing on Atlantic Forest, mangrove and beach ecosystems.

The island is managed as a conservation unit and is visited for its beaches, trails and to see coastal Atlantic Forest and mangrove habitats; small traditional fishing communities are present on the island and services are basic.

It was designated as a state-protected area to conserve representative coastal ecosystems of São Paulo and to limit development that would damage those habitats.

The island lies off the southern São Paulo coast near the town of Cananéia and the coastal lagoon systems of that region; access is by boat from nearby mainland points.

• Access: Access is by boat from mainland towns; visitor services on the island are limited and subject to park regulations.

Ilha do Cardoso is reached from Cananéia, São Paulo. Regular boat services and licensed operators provide access to the state park; contact the park administration for permit requirements, schedules, and conservation rules.

• Access to Ilha do Cardoso is controlled-book transport from Cananéia and check entry requirements with the park authorities.
• Permits and an environmental fee are commonly required for overnight stays or camping-confirm in advance.
• Use local guides to explore mangroves safely and to learn about artisanal fishing communities.