Wishful Steps

Intro

In the southeastern region of Brazil, there is an island called Abaitaí. It is located exactly twenty-two kilometers southeast of Gruta das Encantadas on Ilha do Mel and is part of Baía de Paranaguá.

The crossing to Abaitaí is done by boats departing from Praia Grande or Encantadas. The journey takes approximately one hour and forty-five minutes and costs fifty-five Brazilian reais. There are regular lines daily at 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, but chartering boats at other times is also possible. During the summer, there are boats that depart directly from Paranaguá, and the journey takes about three hours and thirty minutes.

Abaitaí is about 86 kilometers long from north to south. It is famous for its rocky cliffs, dark sand beaches, marshes, sea-carved caves in diabase and migmatite cliffs, underground lakes, and water tunnels. Its dense submontane rainforest is internationally recognized as the birthplace of a varied and rich fauna, including endangered animals such as jaguars, otters, sea turtles, yellow-breasted caimans, stingrays, and dolphins.

The island has few inhabitants. Most of them work in the local hotel industry or provide transportation between the islands and the mainland. The place has only a few inns. Among the largest are Pousada Canto das Gaivotas, Pousada dos Golfinhos, and Recanto das Trilhas, which have even served as settings for brazilian soap operas. They are considered three to four-star accommodations, and the most expensive one's daily rate does not exceed five thousand reais during high season. They are all cozy and equipped with adult and children's leisure areas, including solariums, hammock areas, pools, whirlpool hot tubs, saunas, and restaurants.

There is plenty to do in Abaitaí besides enjoying the beautiful beaches. Visitors can go on underwater tours where marine animals can be observed. Operators provide floaters and snorkels. For adventurers, there are 15 diving spots that can be explored with scuba gear. Some of these spots require certifications. For hikers, there are several trails to be explored and specific camping areas. The Mirantes Trail is the longest and most beautiful, as it is well-signaled and features suspended walkways and various lookout points.

Whether after a short or long stay, visitors always leave the island in love, refreshed, and eager to return. It is a welcoming refuge where elegance is found in simplicity and the friendliness of the people, a cozy and intimate place where everyone feels as if they were in their own beach house.

In summary, the Island of Abaitaí is a paradisiacal location. Ideal for creating stories and fulfilling wishes.