part of the city of rio de janeiro, the island comprises of 16 districts, whilst a large proportion of the island is taken up by the antónio carlos jobim international airport.

the island is actually a major, and at the same time tranquil, residential neighborhood.  

it received its present name in 1568, at which time a large percentage of the island was owned by the governor of brazil mem de sá's family, using it as a sugar cane farm.

ilha do governador is rich of beaches that, even without the beauty of the atlantic waters, have lots of kiosks, bars, and sandy stretches where to enjoy some unique views.