Things To Do
in Araquari

Araquari is a small industrial municipality in Santa Catarina, Brazil, located near Joinville and the Atlantic coast. It blends agricultural roots with growing manufacturing and logistics, giving a laid-back yet evolving vibe. The town is surrounded by rivers and green Atlantic forest pockets that offer easy outdoor escapes.

Visitors will find friendly neighborhoods, local markets, and a gateway to the northern coast and Serra do Mar region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh tropical fruits and traditional Brazilian pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through the cobbled streets of Araquari, admiring the charming colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't forget to visit the Igreja Matriz, a historic church showcasing beautiful stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can indulge in local dishes such as feijoada or fresh seafood. Afterward, visit the Museu Histórico de Araquari to delve into the region's rich history and culture through engaging exhibits. Spend the late afternoon relaxing in the nearby Praça da Matriz, where you can people-watch and enjoy the lush greenery.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local churrascaria for an authentic Brazilian barbecue experience. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and watching the stars twinkle above. End your night with a refreshing caipirinha at a nearby bar, mingling with friendly locals.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Wake up early and drive to the stunning Praia Brava for a morning filled with sun and surf. After soaking in the sun, rent a surfboard or a kayak and ride the waves, experiencing the thrill of the ocean. For those looking for relaxation, find a quiet spot on the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves lapping the shore.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a beachside restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh fish tacos and tropical smoothies. Spend the afternoon trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or beach volleyball with friendly locals and fellow tourists. If you prefer to unwind, simply lounge on the warm sand with a good book.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset picnic on the beach, complete with local cheeses and fresh fruits. After the sun sets, join a beach bonfire, where you can share stories and roast marshmallows with new friends. Conclude your day by taking a moonlit stroll along the shoreline, feeling the cool ocean breeze.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee in a cafe$1-3
🥖Bakery item$0.50-1.50
🚌Local transport (bus fare)$0.60-1.20
🏨One-night budget hotel$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, family-friendly town with easy access to nature
  • Proximity to Joinville and the coast for day trips
  • Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
  • Smaller selection of high-end dining and shopping
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o Restaurante?" - Where is the restaurant?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Araquari

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça da Matriz

Historic main square framed by colonial-style buildings and swaying palm trees, ideal for architectural and street photography.

Ribeirão Itapocu Riverbank

Golden-hour views along the river with boats, reeds, and soft reflections on calm water.

Igreja Matriz de Araquari

Anecdotally photogenic church façade with a simple, serene backdrop for portraits and architecture shots.

Rua de Comércio na Rua 7 de Setembro

Colorful street market lane offering candid moments of daily life and vibrant storefronts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Araquari

Araquari sits in a region where seafood, hearty comfort foods, and Italian/German-influenced cuisine blend. Expect fresh produce, street snacks, and family-style meals that celebrate coastal ingredients and countryside flavors.

Araquari Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca de peixe

A fragrant fish stew with coconut milk and peppers, commonly found in coastal areas and coastal-influenced restaurants.

Must-Try!

Arroz de marisco

A rice dish loaded with seafood, herbs, and a savory broth, reflecting the region's access to fresh fish and shellfish.

Peixe assado com acompanhamentos

Grilled or baked fish served with mandioca (cassava), salad, and sometimes polenta or rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Araquari

A small-town market offering fresh produce, regional snacks, pão, and locally grown ingredients; ideal for sampling everyday Brazilian street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Araquari is humid subtropical, with warm summers and mild winters. Summers bring heat and humidity with regular rain showers, while winters are cooler but rarely very cold. Rain is fairly common year-round, with a wetter pattern in the warmer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Etiquette Rule

Greet with a handshake or a friendly kiss on the cheek among friends. Use Senhor/Senhora to show respect. Be patient in conversations, avoid loud public displays, and always ask before taking photos of people.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and tourist areas. Keep valuables secure, use registered taxis, and avoid isolated spots after dark. Mosquito protection is advised in the evenings, and drink bottled water when possible. Follow local guidance during any storms or flooding events.

Tipping in Araquari

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Brazil, tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. A 5-10% service charge may be included in larger restaurants; if not, leaving around 10% is customary. Rounding up taxi fares is common. Credit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Bring sunscreen, light clothing, and an umbrella or rain jacket for sudden downpours.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with occasional rain. Great for outdoor walks and photography with softer light.

Winter

Cooler but typically mild; evenings can be chilly. Layered clothing is useful for early mornings and night walks.

Spring

Pleasant and sunny with blooming flora. A comfortable time for long outdoor trips and riverfront activities.

Nightlife Guide

Araquari at Night

Araquari offers a modest nightlife scene centered on family-run bars, casual eateries, and riverside cafes. Expect friendly, low-key evenings rather than large club scenes, with occasional live music on weekends and community gatherings along the riverfront.

Hiking in Araquari

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Itapocu River

Scenic riverside trail with birdlife and gentle elevation changes.

Forest pockets near Araquari

Short loops through Atlantic Forest fragments with interpretive signs and easy terrain.

Airports

How to reach Araquari by plane.

Joinville–Lauro Carneiro de Loyola Airport (JOI)

Regional airport serving Joinville and nearby towns; roughly 40-70 km from Araquari with connections to major Brazilian cities.

Ministro Victor Konder International Airport (NVT)

Navegantes International Airport near Itajaí and Balneário Camboriú; about 70-100 km from Araquari.

Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN)

Florianópolis International Airport; about 100-140 km from Araquari, offering broader flight options.

Getting Around

Walkability

Araquari is fairly walkable in the town center, with compact streets and a pleasant pedestrian scale. Sidewalks can be uneven in some areas; most attractions are reachable on foot, but a car or bike helps to explore beyond the core. For longer trips, consider local buses or taxis to reach nearby beaches and forests.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families and commuters

A mix of longtime residents and people who commute to Joinville and coastal towns for work.

Agricultural and rural communities

Surrounding areas feature farming families and small-scale industries contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (futebol)

The most popular sport, with local leagues and informal games in parks.

Futsal

Indoor soccer common in community centers and schools.

Fishing and water sports

Residents enjoy fishing, boating, and other water activities on local rivers and lagoons.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate, with most travel concentrated around Joinville and along the BR-101 corridor. Public transit in Araquari is available but limited; many visitors rely on cars or taxis for convenience. Weekends and holidays can bring heavier traffic toward coastal areas and beaches nearby.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Araquari.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for dishes centered on beans, rice, salads, and vegetables. At meat-focused places, ask for vegetable sides, arroz e feijão, or a simple pasta with olive oil. Brazilian markets often have fresh produce to build a vegetarian-friendly meal.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in Araquari, including clinics and a small hospital. For major emergencies or specialized care, residents typically travel to Joinville or other larger centers. It’s wise to carry travel insurance and know the routes to the nearest hospital.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide