Itapema

Itapema lies along the north-central coast of Santa Catarina, where six beaches with distinct personalities sit between rocky cliffs and forests. Meia Praia, stretching 3.5 kilometers, has gentle waves for swimming, and every August to October, the Ultralight Encounter fills the sky with small planes performing loops and offering passenger flights. Inland, trails take you to waterfalls like Salto do Macaco, where you can swim in natural pools surrounded by ferns and palms. The town mixes calm beach days with activities like paragliding and hiking, appealing to both families and those looking for adventure. Major highways connect it to cities like Florianópolis and Balneário Camboriú, making it easy to reach by car or bus.

Beaches for Swimming, Surfing, and Exploring

Meia Praia’s calm waters make swimming and paddleboarding easy, with rental stands along the shore. Praia Grossa draws surfers to its waves, which build steadily from mid-morning as winds pick up. At low tide, Canto da Praia reveals shallow pools where small fish and crabs hide among rocks—bring water shoes to explore safely. Ilhota Beach, smaller than the others, sits between two granite formations that create a sheltered area for floating on calm days. Central Beach becomes lively after sunset, with groups gathering at seafood stalls and bars serving cold beers. A paved path links all six beaches, popular for jogging or cycling early in the morning before the sun gets intense.

Annual Ultralight Encounter and Aviation Activities

The Ultralight Encounter turns the sky above Itapema into a playground each year, with pilots executing barrel rolls and sudden dives. Visitors can enter raffles for short flights over the coast, getting a bird’s-eye view of beaches and forested hills. Parachutists land on Central Beach during demonstrations, and model airplane enthusiasts display detailed replicas of historic aircraft. The Pilots Association hosts 90-minute workshops on navigation and aerodynamics, suitable for teens and adults. Most flights depart from a grass airstrip 4 kilometers west of town, accessible by taxi or rideshare.

Hiking to Waterfalls and Hilltop Views

A 40-minute hike from the town center leads to Salto do Macaco, a waterfall with a deep pool ideal for cooling off after the trek. Poço do Urso, another cascade further inland, requires a guided tour to navigate its narrower, root-covered trails. Morro do Cabeço, the tallest hill in the area, takes about an hour to climb via a dirt path that zigzags up the slope. From the top, you’ll see the entire coastline and patches of Atlantic forest stretching toward the horizon. Guides recommend starting these hikes before 9 a.m. to avoid midday heat, and carrying at least one liter of water per person.

Boat Trips Along the Coast

From Itapema’s marina, boats depart daily for trips past cliffs and hidden coves. Half-day tours often stop at two snorkeling spots, where guides point out angelfish and occasional octopuses. Sunset cruises include grilled fish or chicken served on deck, with options to upgrade to a private charter for groups. Dolphins frequently surface near Ilhota Beach around sunrise, so early morning tours increase your chances of spotting them. Check if your chosen tour provides snorkels and fins—some require you to bring your own gear.

Seafood, Markets, and Private Chefs

Restaurants along Central Beach serve moqueca in clay pots, simmered with coconut milk and dendê oil. The municipal market opens daily, selling just-caught sardines, mangoes, and queijo coalho cheese skewers for grilling. Some guesthouses partner with local cooks who prepare meals in your rental kitchen, like camarão na moranga or feijoada with crispy pork belly. For groups of six or more, chefs can organize a churrasco with picanha steak, chicken hearts, and farofa, paired with lime-heavy caipirinhas. Reserve these services at least two days in advance during peak seasons like Christmas and Carnival.

Getting Around and Weather Tips

Buses run every 30 minutes from Itapema to Balneário Camboriú, taking roughly 25 minutes via the coastal highway. Renting a car simplifies visits to waterfalls and hills, as taxis become expensive for multiple stops. December and January see temperatures around 30°C (86°F), with brief rain showers most afternoons—plan beach time for mornings. Stay in high-rise apartments near Central Beach for easy access to nightlife, or choose guesthouses in Ilhota for quieter evenings. Download a translation app if you’re unfamiliar with Portuguese, though many hotel staff and tour operators speak basic English.