LUIZ-- An interesting fact: the Brazilian law establishes that all islands and all land 150 m from the high tide line are public property. "Waterfront property" does not assure exclusive access rights --

JACQUES-We have the same law in France: the principe is "Sea belongs to everybody". Great.
Living in US, I am always upset when I see beach front access barred by big signs "Do not trespass -- Private property". Something wrong.

LUIZ
I am afraid the reality is less democratic then that.
This law was enforced in all Spanish and Portuguese colonies in order to give the army and navy legal access to islands and shores. This was necessary for protection against pirates/corsairs.

In Brazil two important invasions of this origin occurred and were repealed: a Dutch attempt (Nassau) in the Northeast and a French attempt (Villegagnon) in Rio.

Cheers,