Ilhabela waterfalls: plan a responsible visit

💧 Waterfalls to visit in Ilhabela

Waterfalls are a great way to experience the Atlantic Forest and explore the island’s natural side. Access and trail conditions can change with the rain and local rules.

1. Cachoeira dos Três Tombos

South · Near Praia da Feiticeira

Images: courtesy

A set of three falls in the forest, also known as Pancada d’Água. A good choice for a relatively short trail and time in nature.

• Scalea tip: the city council stated in 2026 that visits require a monitor; check before you go. Wear suitable shoes, as steps, roots and rocks can be slippery.

2. Cachoeira da Toca

Centre · Estrada da Toca

Images: courtesy and Arquipélago Ilhabela

A well-known waterfall on the Fazenda da Toca estate, with falls, natural pools, natural water slides and rock formations. Visits are organised and an entry fee applies.

• Reference address: Estrada da Toca, 1,000, Toca, Ilhabela, SP.
• Phone: (12) 99793-3354.
• Scalea tip: check prices, opening hours and swimming rules before you visit.

3. Cachoeira do Paquetá

Ribeirão · South

Images: courtesy

Known for its natural pools, one with an “infinity edge” effect and sea views, and for its scenic spots. The trail to the first pool takes about 20 minutes. Popular with nature photographers.

• Trailhead: Rua Nagib Pombo, Ribeirão neighbourhood (GPS reference).
• Scalea tip: take care on wet rocks and near drops. Stay back from the edges when taking photos and respect the residents’ water pipes that cross the trail.

4. Cachoeira da Água Branca

Água Branca neighbourhood

Images: courtesy and Fernanda Lupo

A waterfall in the Atlantic Forest, linked to the history of hydroelectric use on the island. The area has viewpoints and trail sections.

• Scalea tip: respect the signposted areas. Swimming is not allowed everywhere, including at the large fall seen from the viewpoint.

5. Cachoeira do Veloso

Veloso neighbourhood · South

Images: courtesy and Arquipélago Ilhabela

A waterfall in protected forest, reached by a trail that is more demanding in places.

• Scalea tip: check trail conditions and whether a guide or monitor is required before you set out.

6. Cachoeira da Laje

On the way to Praia do Bonete · Far south

Images: courtesy, Fernanda Lupo and Arquipélago Ilhabela

Known for rock formations that make a natural slide and freshwater pools. Part of an outing that needs planning.

• Scalea tip: access is via the Bonete trail. Avoid heavy rain and do not slide down the rocks without checking depth and conditions.

🧭 Guide and tour contacts

Contacts recommended by Scalea for tours and guided trail walks.

• Trilhabela Turismo: (12) 99122-6986 · trilhabela.com.br
• Bruna Ilhabela: (12) 99159-7139
• Pedro — Guide: (12) 99135-2776
• Juninho — Guide: (12) 99159-5056

Scalea tourRent a boat just for your groupChoose the boat and the route at your own pace.See boats →

Água Branca: different access points

At the municipal waterfall park, the main Água Branca waterfall is viewed from a lookout; entry into the waterfall is not permitted. There is also an adapted route to a bathing area in the region, which is a different visit.

The state park’s Água Branca Trail starts near the entrance to the Castelhanos road and passes a series of pools. Confirm exactly which location and how much of the route your outing includes.

Três Tombos, near Feiticeira

Also called Pancada d’Água, it is reached by a short trail in southern Ilhabela. The municipality’s February 2026 guidance lists a guide as mandatory. Check the requirement before visiting.

Being close to parking does not make wet rocks or pools automatically safe. Children and visitors with reduced mobility need a specific assessment of the path and available facilities.

Scalea tourBeach tour by boatNorth or South route, full day. R$ 290 per person.See routes →

Laje Waterfall, on the way to Bonete

Laje lies along the overland route towards Bonete. It needs different planning from a quick roadside stop.

Do not treat natural rock slides as a water park. Do not jump into pools or slide without a local assessment of depth, current and rocks. Plan the return and check any entry conditions.

Building your day

Decide whether you want a waterfall view, a forest walk or a permitted bathing area. Then check total distance, guide arrangements, facilities and everyone’s needs. Avoid trying to collect as many waterfalls as possible.

Bring water, grippy footwear, insect repellent and a bag for all your litter. Do not use soap or shampoo in the water or feed wildlife.

Rain changes the plan

Rain upstream can quickly change river levels even when it is dry at the pool. Stay out of discoloured water, rising currents and closed areas; follow local guidance.

Choose another activity when conditions are unsuitable. The food guide can help you plan an alternative.