The 'Preta' in the name refers to the darker shade of the sand, which results from the presence of monazite and other heavy minerals.
The beach is the site of the former Lazareto, a quarantine facility established by the Brazilian government in the late 19th century to monitor immigrants and passengers arriving in Rio de Janeiro.
The ruins at Praia Preta are historically significant as they represent a period when Ilha Grande served as a gateway for international arrivals to Brazil.
The beach is a departure point for the trail connecting the village of Abraão to the Aqueduto (Aqueduct) and the Poço do Soldado natural swimming hole.
The beach is sheltered from the open ocean, resulting in significantly calmer waters compared to the Atlantic-facing beaches on the other side of the island.
Praia Preta is a secluded beach located on Ilha Grande, known for its distinct dark-colored sand caused by high concentrations of iron oxide and minerals. The beach is bordered by lush Atlantic Forest vegetation and is adjacent to the ruins of the Lazareto, an 1880s quarantine station. The water here is generally calm and sheltered, making it suitable for swimming. The area serves as a transition point between the main village of Abraão and the trail system leading to the Poço do Soldado waterfall. Visitors can observe the remaining stone walls and foundations of the Lazareto, which played a significant role in maritime history. The shoreline is relatively narrow and features significant tidal fluctuations. It is accessible via a short walking path from the northern end of Abraão village.
The contrast between the dark sand, turquoise water, and the moss-covered stone walls of the Lazareto ruins.
Bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet, as the dark mineral sand can get hot and contains coarse sediments.
Visit during low tide to maximize the amount of available beach space for sitting, as the high tide covers much of the sand.
Combine your visit with a short hike to the nearby 19th-century aqueduct ruins located just a few minutes inland.
Do not leave bags unattended on the sand, as monkeys and other wildlife are known to forage for food; avoid swimming near the old stone pier ruins where there may be submerged debris.
Carry out all trash as there are no public bins; respect the preserved archaeological ruins of the Lazareto by not climbing on the stone walls.
