Join the excited tourists that congregate at Cais Turístico de Santa Luzia (Santa Luzia Tourist Pier) ready to set sail to an island paradise. Cais Turístico de Santa Luzia is an extension of Angra dos Reis Port and caters to tourists. Enjoy the views, board a boat and dine at a waterfront restaurant.
Daytrips and one-way journeys on schooners operate regularly from the pier to some of the 300-plus islands. One of the most popular islands is Ilha Grande, where many choose to disembark and spend a few days discovering the postcard-perfect beaches, snorkeling sites and waterfalls. Other destinations are the tiny Ilhas Botinas and Ilha de Cataguás. Ilha da Gipoia is famous for its superb scuba diving. All boast stretches of pristine white sand and crystalline waters.
Walk west from the pier and along the promenade to the fishing wharf. Spend a moment watching the local fishermen sort their catch by the side of colorful trawlers. Look toward the town to see forest-clad hills rise above a blend of colonial landmarks and modern buildings. Seafood restaurants line the promenade.
Further along the promenade is the palm-shaded park Praça do Porto where cultural events, such as concerts, dance performances and handicraft markets, take place.
The pier is just a short walk from the city center and 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from the city’s main bus station. Parking is possible, for a fee, in a large parking lot adjacent to the pier.
If you have time before or after catching a boat at Cais Turístico de Santa Luzia then be sure to visit other sites of interest. Across the street is the beautiful 16th-century Carmo Convent. Less than 10 minutes’ walk is Anil Beach, where you’ll find the imposing statues of the Three Wise Men. The Culture House of Brazil Poets and Matriz Church are also worth visiting.