Fernando de Noronha: More History

On 14 October 1988, following a campaign led by environmentalist José Truda Palazzo Júnior, the majority of the archipelago (70% of the total area) was designated a Marine National Park, covering around 11,270 hectares. This includes two-thirds of the main island and all of the secondary islands. The designation aims to protect the area’s endemic species, particularly the population of spinner dolphins that gather daily in Dolphin Bay, the most consistent site for observing the species anywhere in the world.

The National Park is currently managed by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). To understand its significance, it is important to remember that Fernando de Noronha serves as a major feeding and breeding ground for marine wildlife across the Brazilian Northeast, as well as a crucial resting and feeding area for migratory species. It is home to the last remnants of insular Atlantic Forest and the only oceanic mangrove swamp in the South Atlantic.

In addition to dolphins and turtles, the main island hosts a population of approximately three thousand inhabitants. Tourism is developed sustainably — meaning a maximum number of visitors per day is set. This ensures that even during New Year’s Eve, when accommodation is fully booked, the beaches remain quiet and pristine. All products consumed on the island are brought from the mainland, and all waste produced is sent back. This high level of environmental care and concern has earned Fernando de Noronha the title of Best Island in South America, as voted in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.

In 2001, UNESCO declared Fernando de Noronha a Natural World Heritage Site.

Fernando de Noronha has 17 beaches, divided between the Mar de Dentro (“inner sea”) and the Mar de Fora (“outer sea”). The Mar de Dentro faces the Brazilian mainland and includes ten beaches and two bays. The sea on this side is calm for most of the year and sheltered from the wind. One highlight is Baía do Sancho, voted the world’s most beautiful beach by the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.

The Mar de Fora faces Africa. It includes four beaches, a harbour, two lookout areas, and a cluster of rock-lined beaches. The sea on this side is rougher, though in certain areas the reefs help to calm the waters. With strong waves and an abundance of colourful fish, it resembles a giant aquarium — ideal for scuba diving.

During summer, especially between January and February, the tides are strong and perfect for surfing, making Noronha a key location for Surfing Championship events.