Santa Catarina is known throughout Brazil for its spectacular beaches. But what makes a beach “spectacular”? In this post, we will select the seven best beaches in Santa Catarina based on criteria such as natural beauty, water quality, and infrastructure. However, it is important to mention that Santa Catarina has over 150 beaches, so if other factors were considered, different beaches might make the ranking.
Remember that this blog is dedicated to tourists who are not Brazilian, so all tips and curiosities are tailored for them, and the prices are already in dollars.
7° Praia de Lagoinha do Leste
Average Travel Cost: $70 to $140 per day
Praia de Lagoinha do Leste is one of the most isolated and untouched beaches in Florianópolis, offering a truly unique experience. The beach is accessible only by hiking trails or by boat, adding to the sense of seclusion and adventure.
The journey to Lagoinha do Leste begins with a challenging hike through the forest. The walk typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and trail conditions. For those who prefer a less strenuous approach, reaching the beach by boat is also an option.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a peaceful environment. Lagoinha do Leste features a freshwater lagoon behind the beach. The beach itself is characterized by its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
For those planning a visit, it is important to come prepared. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear if you choose to take the trail.
6° Praia de Mariscal
Average Travel Cost: $60 to $120 per day
Mariscal is a long and tranquil beach located in Bombinhas, ideal for those seeking a refuge away from the hustle and bustle. Its clear waters and white sands are perfect for swimming and leisurely walks. The beach is surrounded by hills covered with Atlantic Forest, offering ecological trails that allow for direct contact with nature.
One of the main attractions of Mariscal is sport fishing. The beach is known for its fish-rich waters, making it a popular destination for amateur and professional fishermen. Additionally, Mariscal is a great spot for bird watching, with various native species inhabiting the area.
Mariscal also boasts quality infrastructure, with a variety of inns and restaurants. The beach maintains a peaceful and family-friendly environment, making it ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy nature in peace. During the summer, Mariscal attracts tourists from all over Brazil, but it still manages to maintain its serene and preserved atmosphere. The beach is an example of how tourism can be balanced with environmental conservation.
5° Praia da Guarda do Embaú
Average Travel Cost: $50 to $100 per day
Guarda do Embaú is one of the most preserved beaches in Santa Catarina. Located in the municipality of Palhoça, the beach is famous for the meeting of the Rio da Madre with the sea, creating a unique landscape.
Guarda do Embaú is surrounded by ecological trails that lead to viewpoints with views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. The Pedra do Urubu Trail is one of the most popular, offering an incredible view of the beach and the river.
The local community is welcoming and offers various accommodation options, from rustic inns to vacation homes. The region’s restaurants serve typical dishes of Santa Catarina cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and the famous roasted mullet.
In addition to its natural beauty, Guarda do Embaú is a popular destination for surfers, thanks to its constant and challenging waves.
4° Praia de Jurerê Internacional
Average Travel Cost: $100 to $160 per day
Jurerê Internacional, located in Florianópolis, is synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Known for its trendy parties and the constant presence of celebrities, Jurerê is one of the most exclusive destinations in Brazil. The beach is famous for its beach clubs, such as P12 and Café de la Musique, which offer high-end parties and first-class services.
The calm and crystal-clear waters of Jurerê are perfect for families. The beach also offers boat trips and luxury yacht rides, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors.
In addition to parties and water activities, Jurerê is known for its high-level gastronomy. The region’s restaurants serve a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to international cuisine, catering to the most demanding palates.
Jurerê Internacional also stands out for its impeccable infrastructure, with hotels and resorts that offer comfort and luxury. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with security services and lifeguards, ensuring a peaceful and safe experience for all visitors.
3° Praia da Joaquina
Average Travel Cost: $70 to $140 per day
Praia da Joaquina, located on the island of Florianópolis, is a dream for surfers. Internationally known for its perfect waves, Joaquina hosts surf competitions that attract athletes from all over the world.
But it’s not just surfing that makes Joaquina special. The white sand dunes surrounding the beach are perfect for sandboarding. Additionally, the dunes offer a great spot for hiking and photography.
The infrastructure at Joaquina is excellent, with a variety of kiosks, bars, and restaurants that cater to tourists year-round. At night, the beach transforms with live music and beach parties, making it a vibrant destination both day and night.
2° Praia de Bombinhas
Average Travel Cost: $60 to $120 per day
Bombinhas is a must-visit destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The waters are crystal clear and teeming with marine life, making it one of the best places in Brazil for these activities. Bombinhas is known for its coral formations and the diversity of colorful fish that inhabit its waters.
In addition to its underwater beauty, Bombinhas offers several ecological trails that lead to viewpoints with panoramic views of the coastline. The Trilha do Morro do Macaco is one of the most popular, providing a spectacular view of the Baía de Zimbros and the Reserva Biológica Marinha do Arvoredo, which is one of the best diving spots in Brazil.
The beach is also a great tourist spot, with various restaurants, bars, and craft shops. For those who want to explore the local cuisine, the restaurants in Bombinhas serve seafood dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the region.
During the summer, Bombinhas becomes a bustling place, attracting tourists from all over Brazil and the world. Despite this, the beach maintains its charm and offers several quieter areas for those seeking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty in peace.
1° Praia do Rosa
Average Travel Cost: $50 to $100 per day
Praia do Rosa is located in the municipality of Imbituba and is the perfect place for nature and surf lovers. Rosa stands out for its half-moon shape, surrounded by hills covered with Atlantic Forest, providing a unique landscape. The waters of this beach are crystal clear and warm.
During the winter and spring, from July to November, Praia do Rosa transforms into a prime spot for whale watching, as southern right whales migrate to the region to reproduce. This natural spectacle attracts numerous tourists.
For the more adventurous, the region offers trails that reveal incredible panoramic views. The Trilha da Praia Vermelha, for example, leads to a breathtaking viewpoint. Additionally, Rosa is known for its vibrant nightlife, with bars and restaurants serving typical dishes from Santa Catarina’s cuisine and fresh seafood.
The infrastructure of Praia do Rosa is robust, with various accommodation options ranging from inns to luxury resorts. This ensures that visitors have a comfortable stay and can fully enjoy everything the beach has to offer.