This coastal city in Santa Catarina state has a 7-kilometer beach and a cable car connecting its central area to Laranjeiras Beach. It's known for high-rise buildings and nightlife.
Balneário Camboriú, a coastal city in southern Brazil's Santa Catarina state, is known for its tall, thin buildings and beaches. You can ride a cable car between beaches, see the illuminated Cristo Luz monument, and enjoy electronic music at top clubs. During summer months, the population increases from around 145,000 to over a million, making Balneário Camboriú an active resort destination.
Beaches and Coastal Activities
The central beach of Balneário Camboriú runs along Avenida Atlântica, with a black-and-white tiled boardwalk. For a calmer experience, go south to Praia do Estaleiro, where you can explore natural pools at low tide. Praia dos Amores, 1 km north of the city, is a spot for paragliding, offering views of the coastline and skyscrapers.
Modern Architecture and Skyline
The city's skyline consists of numerous skyscrapers, creating a modern urban landscape. One of these buildings is the tallest in Brazil. This architectural style has led to Balneário Camboriú being called the "Brazilian Dubai."
Cable Car and Cristo Luz
A beach-to-beach cable car connects the central beach with Laranjeiras beach, providing panoramic views of the city and coastline. The Cristo Luz monument, a 33-meter-tall statue atop Morro da Cruz, is illuminated with changing colors at night and visible from much of the city.
Electronic Music Scene
Balneário Camboriú is considered the "capital of e-music" in Brazil by Forbes magazine. Two of the country's top clubs, Warung and Green Valley, are located here. These clubs attract international DJs and can generate up to $1.6 million in revenue per night during peak season.
Seasonal Changes and Climate
The city experiences significant seasonal changes. The permanent population of around 145,000 increases to over a million during the summer months (November to February). This influx changes the city's atmosphere, with beaches, restaurants, and bars becoming much busier. The climate is subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach 40°C, while winter averages around 15°C.
Transportation
The nearest airport is Ministro Victor Konder International Airport in Navegantes. By road, you can access Balneário Camboriú via the BR-101 highway from both north and south. Within the city, you can walk along the main beachfront area, but taxis and ride-sharing services are available for longer distances.
Natural Areas
At Parque Unipraias, you can explore the nearly extinct Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Woods) and enjoy ocean views. The park has cable cars, monorails, hiking trails, and zip lines. Parque Natural Municipal Raimundo Goncalez Malta has eco-trails and gardens where you can see local flora and fauna.
Shopping and Dining
San Miguel Boardwalk is a pedestrian street with local boutiques and restaurants. For a culinary experience, try L'Assiette Cozinha de Autor, which serves contemporary cuisine. Along Avenida Atlântica, you'll find numerous restaurants and bars catering to various tastes and budgets.
