Things To Do
in Araranguá

Brazilian barbecue is popular across southern Brazil; look for local churrascarias and open-fire grilled cuts — great for groups and widely available in town.

Must-Try!

Fresh-caught grilled fish (often tainha when in season) and shrimp dishes are common near the coast — try beachside restaurants and family seafood places.

Polenta reflects Italian immigrant influence — served soft or fried, often topped with meat sauces or cheese at local homes and eateries.

A traditional southern herbal tea (mate) sipped socially — offered in many homes and some cafés, especially among older residents.

Small municipal markets sell fresh fruit, fish, cheeses and snacks — good for tasting local salamis, cheeses and home-made sweets; vendors often sell quick snacks like pastel and salgados.

On nearby beaches you’ll find simple kiosks serving grilled fish, espetinhos (meat skewers), cold beer and fruit juices — ideal for a casual seaside meal.

People are warm and welcoming; business greetings are typically handshake, while friends may exchange cheek kisses. Use 'senhor/senhora' to address elders or in formal situations.

Casual dress is normal; on beaches, swimwear is fine, but change into cover-ups when leaving the sand to enter shops or restaurants. Respect private property and posted signs at dunes and protected areas.

Family and religious events are important; be respectful during festivals, processions and inside churches — ask before photographing people in private ceremonies.

Social events are often informal with relaxed timing; for business or tours, aim to be punctual but expect a flexible approach from locals.

Restaurants often add a 10% service charge (serviço); if it isn’t included, a 10% tip is appreciated but not mandatory. For casual cafés or street food, tipping is not expected; round up fares for taxi drivers or leave a small tip for good service.

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely accepted for markets and small vendors; credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in restaurants, shops and hotels. ATMs are available in town—notify your bank before travel—and mobile payments are increasingly used in larger establishments.

Warm and humid with beach season in full swing: expect crowds on weekends and holidays, lively kiosks and higher rates for accommodation. Bring sun protection, insect repellent and a swimsuit; book beachside restaurants in advance during high season.

Milder temperatures and fewer tourists make this a pleasant time for exploration, photography and outdoor walks; sea temperatures remain comfortable early in the season.

Cooler, occasionally chilly nights (relative to coastal Brazil) with more unpredictable rain; beaches are quiet and some coastal kiosks close, but inland landscapes are green and good for hiking.

Warming weather and blooming vegetation; shoulder-season benefits include fewer crowds, improving sea temperatures and active wildlife for birdwatching.

People living in the city center and surrounding neighborhoods work in commerce, services, industry and local administration.

Smaller towns and rural districts around Araranguá focus on agriculture, livestock and small-scale production.

Fishermen and families in seaside districts maintain traditional livelihoods tied to the sea and local seafood markets.

Cultural influence from Portuguese, Italian and German immigrants is reflected in local cuisine, festivals and family traditions.

The most popular sport — local amateur leagues, school matches and community fields are common, with passionate local support.

On nearby beaches, casual football and volleyball are popular recreational activities, especially in summer.

Surfing is practiced at breakable beach spots when swell conditions are good; local surfers and small shops supply boards seasonally.

Both recreational shore and boat fishing are common pastimes due to the coastal and riverine environment.