Ilha dos Coqueiros

Gorgeous sunsets, mountain views and the chance to swim in a calm bay await at the beach of this quiet fishing village.

Descend the tall staircase to this sheltered bay, stay at an inn and take a kayak out on the water.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the impressive grounds of this colonial school, where officers are trained for the Brazilian Navy.

Study the whitewashed colonial architecture of this municipal building and then hang out beneath the shade of a tree in its adjoining square.

Note the simple exterior of this church before stepping inside to admire various artworks and artifacts, including a baptismal font that was a gift from the Portuguese crown.

Shop for a variety of fresh fish and seafood directly from local fishmongers at a market that stands in the heart of a city center square.