If you’re dreaming of the Brazilian Fernando, you’ll need to fly into Natal or Recife on the mainland. From there, a small plane takes you on a short hop over the ocean. The landing strip is so close to the water you’ll feel like you’re landing on a aircraft carrier. It’s thrilling, unless you’re afraid of heights—then just close your eyes and think of turtles.
Once you arrive, you’ll pay a conservation fee (around $50 USD) to help keep the island pristine. It’s worth it, because every dollar you spend helps protect those sea turtles. Think of it as a donation to your own future vacation photos.
What’s the Vibe Like?
Imagine a place where Wi-Fi is weak, but the stars are bright—like, really bright. The vibe is laid-back, with no nightclubs or malls. You wake up to the sound of waves, eat fresh seafood, and hike to viewpoints that make your jaw drop. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect from your phone and reconnect with your sense of wonder.
Locals call it a “natural paradise,” and they’re not exaggerating. You’ll see spinner dolphins doing acrobatics at sunrise. You’ll snorkel with moray eels and reef sharks, but don’t worry—they’re more scared of you than you are of them. Probably.