Built in 1872 on orders from Dom Pedro II, this lighthouse stands picturesquely atop a hill at the island’s most easterly point. From here you have panoramic views of the island, the bay and the Serra do Mar. It’s a popular spot to watch the sun drop below the horizon – don't miss it.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
2.75 MILES
Legend has it that these small caves at the island’s southern tip are inhabited by beautiful mermaids who enchant all who come near. Signs clearly mark…
2.35 MILES
This picturesque fort, which dates to the 1760s, is a 3km hike from Nova Brasília via Praia da Fortaleza. Inspect the deserted fortress before climbing up…
Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia
13.56 MILES
Housed in an 18th-century Jesuit college, this surprisingly great museum displays indigenous artifacts, primitive and folk art, and old tools and machines.
13.68 MILES
The oldest of the city’s colonial churches is Igreja de NS do Rosário, parts of which date to 1578.
13.78 MILES
The 18th-century Igreja de São Benedito was built specifically for the town’s slaves in honor of Benedict the Moor, the patron saint of slaves.
Igreja São Francisco das Chagas
13.43 MILES
The 18th-century Igreja São Francisco das Chagas was built in the baroque style specifically for the town’s slaves.
Nearby attractions
1. Fortaleza de NS dos Prazeres
2.35 MILES
This picturesque fort, which dates to the 1760s, is a 3km hike from Nova Brasília via Praia da Fortaleza. Inspect the deserted fortress before climbing up…
2.75 MILES
Legend has it that these small caves at the island’s southern tip are inhabited by beautiful mermaids who enchant all who come near. Signs clearly mark…
3. Igreja São Francisco das Chagas
13.43 MILES
The 18th-century Igreja São Francisco das Chagas was built in the baroque style specifically for the town’s slaves.
4. Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia
13.56 MILES
Housed in an 18th-century Jesuit college, this surprisingly great museum displays indigenous artifacts, primitive and folk art, and old tools and machines.
13.68 MILES
The oldest of the city’s colonial churches is Igreja de NS do Rosário, parts of which date to 1578.
13.78 MILES
The 18th-century Igreja de São Benedito was built specifically for the town’s slaves in honor of Benedict the Moor, the patron saint of slaves.