Fernando de Noronha is located in the Atlantic Ocean about 350 kilometers off the north coast of Brazil. It’s one of the most stunning tropical islands in the world. I had the pleasure of visiting this unique archipelago recently on a five day adventure. Let me tell you all about this beautiful destination.
I was born and raised in Florianópolis. My passion for photography began at 11 when I started taking photos of the natural world around me. Later on, I worked with fashion photography and travel/lifestyle videography. I’ve always had this dream to combine them both – as in fashion trips.
Getting the chance to travel the world for work was a dream come true for me. Places like Greece and Fernando de Noronha were high on my bucket list! Many of my friends had traveled to Fernando de Noronha and told me that it was one of the most amazing places in the world.
They described it as a place more beautiful than photos and videos could ever show. It’s like a piece of lush greenery in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. As soon as I arrived, I felt the unique energy of this tropical island. Everything was so calm and wonderful – a true paradise!
Five Special Days in Fernando de Noronha
I was invited to visit Fernando de Noronha by a digital influencer friend of mine. The plan was to work with her on new material, shoot some photos and videos, and explore the island. We spent five days in Fernando de Noronha. I must admit that I could have easily spent a whole month here.
On this trip we stayed at the Mar de Dentro part of the island. This spot is known for its calm and beautiful waters. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to explore the Mar de Fora beaches which seem amazing too. But this gives me a great excuse to come back one day in the future!
My Favourite Place: Morro Dois Irmãos
My favourite place on the island was the region of Praia do Bode and Praia da Cacimba do Padre up until Baía do Sancho – which is right in front of Morro Dois Irmãos. These hills are some of the most iconic natural landscapes on the island. Definitely one of the best spots!
This amazing strip of beach has crystal-clear waters just like the Greek Islands at places such as Mykonos. The best part was just how warm the Atlantic Ocean was – with small waves and an incredible marine life.
10 Best Things To Do in Fernando de Noronha
Fernando de Noronha can only be described as heaven. The beaches, landscapes and marine life of this island are nothing short of spectacular. You feel totally immersed in nature and the troubles of the world seem far, far away. Below are my top 10 recommendations for your visit:
1. Enjoy the Stunning Cacimba do Padre Beach
Cacimba do Padre is one of the most famous beaches in Fernando de Noronha. The beach is nestled between the emblematic Morro Dois Irmãos hills which rise out of the water in identical fashion. Sunbathe, swim, surf, snorkel and admire the overwhelming beauty of this beach.
2. Take a Boat Trip to the Beautiful Sancho Beach
Take a boat trip to Sancho Beach which leaves from the main port of the island. Along the way, you will get the chance to see majestic dolphins swimming and playing alongside the boat. Fernando de Noronha is known for having the largest concentration of resident dolphins in the world.
Once you arrive at Sancho Beach you will realise that you’ve been transported to paradise. The beach is consistently voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here you will find an incredible mix of fine sands, emerald-green waters and untouched fauna and flora.
3. Go Scuba Diving at a Shipwreck by the Port
There is a famous diving spot near the port of Fernando de Noronha where you can explore an underwater shipwreck and go swimming with many beautiful turtles. The shipwreck not only can be seen by divers but also by snorkelers as it’s not too far under water. Definitely a bucket-list experience.
4. Watch a Glorious Sunset from Praia do Bode
Sunsets in Fernando de Noronha are dazzling and there’s no better to place to watch the sun sink into the ocean than at Praia do Bode. You can climb up a large rock/stone nearby which offers the best views of the beach and its surroundings. Having the beach to yourself at dusk is awesome.
5. Spend the Day/Afternoon at Bar do Meio Noronha
Bar do Meio Noronha is one of the best bars on the island. Enjoy a couple of cold beers at the bar and check out the local beach club. Outside the bar, there are Buddhist statues and loungers which create a zen-like atmosphere. Make sure you try the caipirinhas and fresh seafood.
6. Relax at the Natural Pools of Buraco do Galego
Buraco do Galego natural pools are located on the north eastern side of the island at Praia do Cachorro. These pools get filled with water when the tide rises creating an amazing 5-meter deep tidal pool. Relax in these rugged volcanic rock pools with stunning views over Praia do Cachorro.
7. Discover the Churches of Fernando de Noronha
Fernando de Noronha is home to many beautiful little churches which are scattered throughout the island. The most famous church is Church of Our Lady of Good Remedy. Another fantastic church to check out is Capela de São Pedro dos pescadores which is the perfect place for sunset.
8. Rent a Buggy and Explore Fernando de Noronha
Depending on where your accommodation is based, most of the places you will want to visit can be reached on foot. However, hiring a buggy is a great way to explore all corners of the island. These buggies can sell out quickly so make sure you book in advance to reserve your vehicle.
9. Meet some of the 5000 Permanent Residents
Fernando de Noronha is home to around 5000 residents. We had a great experience with the locals who were all welcoming and helpful. Tourist numbers are also limited on the island at each given time which helps preserve the ecosystem and keeps Fernando de Noronha a quiet place.
10. Try the Local Food and Seafood of the Island
We didn’t eat out a lot but the restaurants we did go to were amazing. Fernando de Noronha is known for its fresh seafood. A few of the best places we visited were: Restaurante Cacimba Bistrô, Bar do Meio Noronha, Restaurante Varanda, O Pico and Restaurante Xica da Silva.
Where to Stay on your Visit to Fernando de Noronha
Fernando de Noronha offers amazing places to stay for accommodation. We stayed for five days at Pousada Zé Maria. The lodges here, which are the best rooms available at the hotel, were superb! A friend of ours also stayed at Pousada Morena. These are two spots I would highly recommend.
If you would like to stay at the best hotel on the island, then Pousada Maravilha is the place to check out. Many people told us that it was the best hotel in Fernando de Noronha but we never got the chance to visit there. I might be tempted to stay at Pousada Maravilha on my next visit!
What you Need to Know Before you Go
For people wanting to travel to Fernando de Noronha, I recommend paying attention to the weather forecast so you can enjoy perfect conditions on your visit. Make sure you bring along all the necessary sunscreen, hats, insect repellents, etc. that protect you from the sun and mosquitos.
Besides that, rent a buggy and have fun. I had a wonderful time in Fernando de Noronha. My experiences were unforgettable. It was truly one of the best trips of my life. What’s better than enjoying beaches, scuba diving, connecting with nature and cruising around on a buggy?!
If you would like to know more information about my trip or would like some more travel tips for Fernando de Noronha feel free to message me on Instagram. Thanks for reading and happy travels everyone!
