Quiet beaches, popular surfing spots, breathtaking bike trails and a boisterous annual Oktoberfest are some of the features of this small state in Brazil’s South Region.
Enjoy typical Brazilian tourist attractions, such as beaches, mountain scenery and water sports, in Santa Catarina. Visit colonial towns and be part of time-honored celebrations introduced by the state’s European settlers. Santa Catarina sits in the middle of Brazil’s South Region, sandwiched between Paraná and Río Grande del Sur. The state stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the country’s border with northeast Argentina.
Join beach-loving visitors that flock to FlorianópolisOpens in a new window, the state capital split between the mainland and a picturesque Santa Catarina Island. Discover a sophisticated city center with a sprinkling of colonial landmarks and then explore a collection of over 100 beaches. Ride big waves at Joaquina BeachOpens in a new window, mingle with a backpacker crowd at Mole BeachOpens in a new window and sample the nightlife in the neighborhood of Jureré Internacional. Relax in the Portuguese fishing village of Ribeirão da Ilha and experience the culinary scene at Lagoa da Conceição, a district beside a lagoon.
Idyllic beaches, secluded bays and built-up coastal resorts run up and down the coastline from Florianópolis. Travel north to Bombinhas, home to postcard-perfect coves set around a forest-clad peninsula. Itapema and Balneario Camboriú have long sweeps of golden sand backed by urban centers. Go to Joinville, the gateway to the 13 beaches that grace the island ofIlha de São Francisco do Sul.
A short drive south from Florianópolis is Garopaba, a family-friendly resort with calm water. Further south, Imbituba and Laguna offer the chance to escape crowds.
Away from the coast, Santa Catarina astounds with its mountainous terrain, hilltop villages and spa resorts. Spend a day in colonial Blumenau, established by Germans and the host of a 3-week-long Oktoberfest beer festival. Bike along the zigzagging road that weaves around the Serra do Rio do Rastro hills. Rejuvenate the body in the hot springs at Piratuba and Treze Tilias.
Santa Catarina’s transport hub is Florianópolis where an international airport receives direct flights from major nationwide cities in addition to Buenos AiresOpens in a new window and Santiago, Chile's capital. Come and see for yourself why Brazilians and South Americans return year after year to this beautiful state.