Pousada Manacá is a family story. It began when Gerard arrived on Ilha Grande in the 1980s and fell in love with the island — and with Kazuko, who was born here. Together they built Manacá from the ground up, opening its doors in 2001. Today the pousada is still run by the family, with a small team that has grown alongside it. We care about the details: a proper breakfast, a clean and comfortable room, and genuine recommendations for making the most of the island. Our team knows Ilha Grande intimately — the best trails, the hidden beaches, the right time of day to visit each spot. For us, hospitality isn't a transaction. It's welcoming people into a place we love and helping them leave with something they'll remember.

Pousada Manacá sits directly on Praia do Canto, one of Abraão's quietest stretches of beach — close enough to the village for everything you need, far enough to fall asleep to the sound of waves. The pousada has been in the family since 2001, and that history shows in every corner. The décor blends rustic, tropical, and handcrafted elements: each room is dedicated to a different artist, celebrating creativity and culture. Throughout the common areas, you'll find a curated collection of indigenous artifacts and photography honoring Brazil's original peoples — a thoughtful, distinctive backdrop that guests consistently remember. The six rooms range from garden-view doubles on the ground floor to sea-view suites on the upper floor, all with air conditioning, ceiling fan, minibar fridge, and Wi-Fi. The upper-floor suite includes a private annex — ideal for families who want a little separation between adults and children. Guests have direct beach access from the property. Start your morning on the sea-facing veranda with breakfast, or unwind in the garden deck at the end of the day. It's an unhurried place — designed for people who want to actually rest.

Praia do Canto is the best of both worlds on Ilha Grande. You're a short walk from the center of Abraão — the ferry pier, restaurants, tour operators, dive shops, and the trailheads leading to Lopes Mendes, Lagoa Azul, and Dois Rios — but the beach itself stays calm and residential. Just the sea. Ilha Grande is one of the most biodiverse coastal environments in Brazil, inside the APA Tamoios and surrounded by protected Atlantic Forest. Hiking, snorkeling, boat tours, and kayaking are all accessible directly from the village. The island has no cars — that alone changes the pace of everything. For guests who want structure: boat tours to Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde leave from the pier every morning. For guests who want to wander: the trail to Praia de Palmas starts less than 10 minutes from the pousada.