What not to miss in Santa Catarina? See our travel tips

If you're planning a trip to the south of Brazil, you can't fail to consider the charm and diversity that Santa Catarina has to offer. With its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, rich culture and a variety of outdoor activities, this state has something for every type of traveler. So get ready to explore what's on your itinerary when you visit Santa Catarina. 

What not to miss in Santa Catarina?

Bathed by the Atlantic Ocean and adorned by breathtaking landscapes that blend paradisiacal beaches, verdant mountain ranges and a rich cultural heritage, Santa Catarina is a destination that captivates the hearts of travelers. 

Located in the south of Brazil, this state enchants not only with its natural beauty, but also with the diversity of experiences it offers. Whether you're a beach lover in search of crystal-clear waters, an adventurer eager to explore challenging trails or an appreciator of Azorean culture, Santa Catarina has something special in store for every type of traveler.

1. Enjoy the paradisiacal beaches

Santa Catarina is blessed with some of the most stunning beaches in Brazil, each with its own charm and unique characteristics. From long stretches of white sand to quiet coves surrounded by cliffs, there's a beach to suit every taste and preference.

In Florianópolis, the state capital, visitors can enjoy a variety of incredible beaches. Joaquina Beach is famous for its imposing dunes, which provide spectacular scenery and attract sandboarders and surfers. The consistent waves make it perfect for surfers of all levels. Praia Mole, next to Joaquina, is a paradise for swimmers, with its crystal-clear waters and relaxed atmosphere.

Along the coast of Santa Catarina, there are other natural gems. Bombinhas, for example, is known as the "Capital of Ecological Diving" due to its rich marine biodiversity and excellent underwater visibility. Divers from all over the world come to explore the coral reefs, rock formations and shipwrecks that adorn the crystalline waters of this region.

Not far from there, Praia do Rosa enchants visitors with its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Surrounded by hills covered in Atlantic forest, this beach is a haven for those seeking peace and contact with nature. In addition, it is possible to spot right whales during the winter months, when these majestic mammals migrate to the warm waters off the coast of Santa Catarina to breed.

If you're looking for a livelier atmosphere, Balneário Camboriú is the place for you. Known as the "Brazilian Dubai" because of its modern skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife, this city also has beautiful beaches that attract tourists from all over the country. Praia Central is the main meeting point, where you can practice water sports, relax in the sun and enjoy a variety of bars and restaurants by the sea.

2. Visit Serra Catarinense

While many travelers associate Santa Catarina mainly with its stunning beaches, the Serra Catarinense offers a completely different and equally enchanting experience. Located in the interior of the state, this mountainous region is a haven for those looking to escape the coastal heat and explore breathtaking landscapes.

One of the most popular destinations in the Serra Catarinense is Urubici, a city known for its cold climate and impressive natural beauty. Here, visitors can enjoy scenic trails that lead to stunning waterfalls, such as the Cascata do Avencal, an imposing waterfall that impresses with its height and beauty. In addition, Urubici is an excellent starting point for exploring the São Joaquim National Park, home to a rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, high altitude fields and unique rock formations.

Another unmissable destination in the Serra Catarinense is São Joaquim, known as the "Land of Snow" due to its cold climate and the sporadic occurrence of snow during the winter. As well as being one of the best places in Brazil to enjoy the phenomenon of frost and snow, São Joaquim also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, horseback riding and cycling, which allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Another charming city in the Serra Catarinense is Lages, known as the "Capital of Rural Tourism". Here, visitors have the opportunity to experience life in the countryside, visiting traditional farms, taking part in harvests and tasting local products such as cheeses, wines and sausages.

3. Explore Azorean Culture

One of the most striking features of Santa Catarina is its strong Azorean cultural influence, which dates back to colonial times and is reflected in various aspects of life in the state. When exploring Azorean culture, travelers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in centuries-old traditions, appreciate colonial architecture and taste delicious typical cuisine.

In cities like Florianópolis, São Francisco do Sul and Laguna, you can find a variety of historic buildings that bear witness to the presence of the first Azorean settlers. Colourful houses, centuries-old churches and imposing fortresses are just some of the architectural relics that can still be admired in these locations, transporting visitors back in time to the beginnings of colonization.

As well as architecture, Azorean culture is also manifested in traditional festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year. The Festa do Divino Espírito Santo, for example, is one of the most important religious festivities in the region, marked by processions, masses and folkloric performances that honor devotion to the Divine Holy Spirit. Another notable event is the Fenaostra (National Oyster and Azorean Culture Festival), held in Florianópolis, which celebrates the region's rich fishing tradition and offers visitors the chance to taste a variety of seafood-based dishes.

4. Venture out into nature

Santa Catarina is a true paradise for lovers of nature and outdoor sports, offering a wide range of activities that allow visitors to explore its stunning and diverse landscapes.

For hiking enthusiasts, the state has a plethora of options, ranging from gentle strolls to more demanding challenges. The Serra do Itajaí National Park, for example, offers trails that wind through dense tropical forests, taking hikers to hidden waterfalls and viewpoints with breathtaking panoramic views. The Serra do Tabuleiro State Park, with its vast expanse of preserved Atlantic forest, offers a unique experience of immersion in wild nature, with trails leading to mountain peaks, crystal-clear rivers and even deserted beaches.

In addition to hiking, Santa Catarina is also a popular destination for extreme and adventure sports. The rivers that cut through the state offer excellent conditions for rafting, with thrilling rapids that challenge even the most experienced practitioners. The canyons in the Bom Jardim da Serra region are a paradise for abseiling enthusiasts, with vertical walls that provide thrilling descents and spectacular views. And for the bravest, the Urubici region offers the chance to try paragliding, flying over verdant valleys and imposing mountains in a truly unforgettable experience.

5. Taste the local cuisine

Exploring the local gastronomy is an essential part of any trip, and in Santa Catarina, visitors are graced with a rich variety of flavors and dishes that reflect the cultural diversity and abundance of local ingredients.

As a coastal state, Santa Catarina is especially known for its delicious and fresh seafood-based cuisine. Along the extensive coastline, local fishermen provide a variety of fresh fish and seafood, which is prepared in a variety of ways and served in seaside restaurants, offering visitors a truly authentic gastronomic experience.

One of Santa Catarina's most famous specialties is the oyster, and the Florianópolis region, especially the town of Santo Antônio de Lisboa, is known as one of the best places in Brazil to enjoy this delicious fresh seafood. Oysters are served in a variety of ways, from the traditional fresh oysters with lemon to more elaborate dishes such as oysters au gratin and breaded oysters.

In addition to seafood, Santa Catarina's cuisine is also influenced by a variety of other local ingredients, such as manioc, corn, meats and sausages. In cities like Joinville and Blumenau, for example, you can enjoy typical German dishes such as "Eisbein" (smoked pork knee) and "Chucrute" (fermented cabbage), accompanied by artisanal sausages and local beers.

Attractions in Joinville

Joinville, one of the largest cities in Santa Catarina, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture and many attractions that delight visitors. Here are some of the main attractions to explore in Joinville:

National Museum of Immigration and Colonization

Located in a former neoclassical palace, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of European immigration to southern Brazil. With exhibitions depicting the lives of the settlers and their influence on shaping the local culture, the museum is an unmissable stop for anyone wishing to learn more about the history of Joinville and the region.

Rua das Palmeiras

Known as the "Street of Palms", Rua XV de Novembro is one of Joinville's main shopping streets and a popular place for strolling and shopping. With its historic buildings, charming stores, cafés and restaurants, the street offers a lively atmosphere and opportunities to explore the architecture and local commerce.

Joinville Zoo and Botanical Park

This park is a great option for those traveling with the family. As well as housing a variety of plant and animal species native to the region, the Zoobotanical Park offers educational activities, hiking trails, picnic areas and a playground for children.

Joinville Art Museum (MAJ)

This museum, located in a beautiful historic building in the city center, houses an impressive collection of works of art, including paintings, sculptures and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the permanent and temporary exhibitions that highlight the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Joinville and the region.

City of Flowers

Joinville is known as the "City of Flowers" due to its tradition in the production of flowers and ornamental plants. Visitors can explore the various nurseries and flower shops in the region, take part in guided tours to learn about flower cultivation and even buy plants to take home as souvenirs.

Attractions in Blumenau

Blumenau, famous for its German tradition and the annual Oktoberfest festival, is a charming city in Santa Catarina, full of cultural and historical attractions. Here are some of the main attractions to explore in Blumenau:

Vila Germânica Park

This park is the heart of Blumenau's Oktoberfest and a landmark in the city. As well as hosting Brazil's most famous beer festival, Parque Vila Germânica is also home to a number of cultural events throughout the year, as well as stores, restaurants and bars that celebrate German culture.

Beer Museum

Located inside the Vila Germânica Park, the Beer Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of beer in Blumenau and the region. Visitors can learn about the brewing process, the influence of German immigration on beer production and even sample some of the local beers.

Historic Center

Blumenau's historic center is full of charm and German colonial architecture. Strolling along the cobbled streets, visitors can admire the beautiful old buildings, such as the São Paulo Apóstolo Cathedral, the Carlos Gomes Theater and the Havan Castle, a building that is reminiscent of European castles.

Water Museum

This museum, located in a former water treatment plant, offers a journey through the history of water supply in Blumenau. Visitors can learn about the importance of water for the city, the water distribution systems and even try out some interactive activities related to the theme.

Ramiro Ruediger Park

This urban park is a green haven in the heart of Blumenau. With walking trails, leisure areas, lakes and lush vegetation, Ramiro Ruediger Park is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll in the middle of nature.

Destination for all tastes

Santa Catarina is a destination that has something for everyone, from paradisiacal beaches to stunning mountains, as well as a rich cultural heritage and a variety of outdoor activities. So when you're planning your next trip, be sure to consider this beautiful southern Brazilian state. You certainly won't be disappointed with all that Santa Catarina has to offer.

See also: 10 cheap places to visit in Fortaleza 

March 30th, 2024