This small beach town on Brazil's southern coast has 39 beaches ideal for snorkeling and diving. Clear waters and protected marine life make it popular from December to March.
Bombinhas, the smallest municipality in Santa Catarina, occupies a peninsula dotted with 17 beaches. At Bombas Beach, you'll see wooden fishing boats bringing in fresh mullet each morning. Watch scuba divers descend to explore the coral gardens at Sepultura Beach, where parrotfish and sea turtles swim among the formations. Climb the Morro do Macaco trail to spot dolphins playing in the bay below, or join the locals collecting mussels along the rocky shores of Quatro Ilhas Beach.
Getting to Bombinhas
You can reach Bombinhas through two nearby airports: Navegantes (60 km away) or Florianópolis (75 km away). From either airport, take the BR-101 highway and then connect to SC-412. During peak season (December-February), expect heavy traffic on these routes.
Climate and Seasons
Summer temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C with frequent afternoon showers. Winter brings mild weather between 10°C and 20°C. Visit during April, May, September, or October to enjoy temperatures between 15°C and 25°C with fewer crowds.
Beaches and Swimming
Bombas and Bombinhas beaches form a 2-kilometer strip with calm waters perfect for families. Head to Quatro Ilhas Beach to catch waves reaching up to 2 meters high. At Sepultura Beach, swim in a natural pool formed by granite rocks. Surfers gather at Mariscal Beach's 4-kilometer stretch for its consistent waves.
Marine Life and Diving
Dive among brain coral colonies and sea fans in the Marinha do Arvoredo Biological Reserve. You'll spot groupers, angelfish, and rays year-round, with water visibility reaching 15 meters during winter months. Local diving schools provide PADI certification courses and guided dives to 12 marked sites around the peninsula.
Fishing Experience
Join local fishermen as they cast nets for mullet from their wooden canoas between May and July. Learn net-casting techniques during morning workshops, or watch the boats return with their catch at Bombas Beach pier. You can buy fresh fish directly from the boats or at the morning fish market.
Hiking and Viewpoints
The Morro do Macaco trail climbs 180 meters through banana trees and bromeliads. The 1.7-kilometer round trip takes 1-2 hours, leading to views of the entire peninsula. Walk the coastal path between Bombas and Quatro Ilhas beaches to spot seabirds and native Atlantic Forest plants.
Practical Information
A tourist fee applies between November and April. Streets follow a nature-themed naming system, making navigation straightforward. Several beaches hold Blue Flag certification, indicating they meet international safety and cleanliness standards.
