Things To Do
in Balneário de Camboriú
Balneário de Camboriú sits on the sunny Atlantic coast of Santa Catarina and is famous for its gleaming skyline of high-rise towers along a bustling beachfront. The Praia Central spans a long promenade lined with hotels, bars, and restaurants, drawing sun-seekers and party-goers alike. The city blends modern resort amenities with natural beauty, offering easy access to viewpoints, cliffs, and forest trails.
With a cosmopolitan vibe and a gateway to nearby Penha and Itajaí, it’s a microcosm of southern Brazilian coastal life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the quaint streets of Balneário de Camboriú’s historic center, where the vibrant colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Visit the Igreja de Santa Inês, a charming church that adds to the area’s historical significance. Don’t forget to grab a fresh breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Brazilian pastries and coffee.
After lunch, explore the lively Avenida Brasil, known for its shops and boutiques, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. As you stroll, take in the local culture and perhaps enjoy a refreshing açaí bowl from a nearby vendor. Visit the nearby Parque Unipraias for stunning views of the coastline and lush surroundings.
As night falls, enjoy a dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach promenade, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere filled with street performers and fellow travelers. Conclude your day with a cocktail at a beach bar, listening to the sound of waves lapping against the shore.
Kick off your day with a sun-soaked morning at Praia Central, one of the most popular beaches in Balneário de Camboriú. Rent a sunbed and umbrella, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters that invite you for an invigorating start to the day. Don't miss out on trying your hand at beach volleyball or paddleboarding for some fun in the sun.
After a morning of aquatic activities, grab lunch at a beachside kiosk that serves delicious grilled seafood and tropical drinks. Spend your afternoon indulging in water sports such as jet skiing or banana boat rides, experiencing the thrill of the ocean's waves. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a diving lesson to explore the stunning underwater world nearby.
As the sun sets, head back to the beach to witness the breathtaking view as the sky transforms into a palette of colors. Treat yourself to dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can enjoy local specialties such as moqueca or a hearty feijoada. Finish off your evening with a relaxing stroll along the shore, savoring the gentle ocean breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $60-120 |
| 🚎Local transport (2-3 trips) | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and skyline of high-rise buildings
- Vibrant nightlife and waterfront dining
- Crowded during peak season
- Rising real estate development changing the character of some areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Balneário de Camboriú
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, palm-lined beach with iconic high-rise backdrops and golden sunsets.
Elevated vantage with sweeping views over the coastline and city skyline.
Scenic spots along the hillside with forest and ocean vistas.
Less crowded stretch with dramatic dunes and watercraft silhouettes.
Food in Balneário de Camboriú
Balneário de Camboriú Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shrimp cooked in a savory pumpkin sauce, a popular seafood dish in coastal kitchens.
Must-Try!
Creamy seafood rice loaded with shrimp, mussels, and fish, a staple at many coastal restaurants.
Grilled fish served with polenta, a classic pairing on the coast.
A regional fish stew with coconut milk, peppers, and coriander.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A port-side market where you can buy fresh seafood and sample grilled catches.
Nearby stalls offer pastel, churros, tapioca, and fresh fruit smoothies along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect swim zones, avoid loud music in residential areas, and dress modestly when away from beaches.
A simple 'Olá' or 'Oi' and a smile are common; handshake is typical in formal settings.
Being on time is appreciated for tours but casual in social events.
Safety
Tipping in Balneário de Camboriú
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; 5-10% is appreciated if service is good, or round up in casual settings. Some restaurants include a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent showers or thunderstorms, especially in the afternoons; great beach conditions and vibrant nightlife.
Milder days with less rainfall; perfect for outdoor hikes and little crowds.
Cooler and breezy; daytime temperatures comfortable for sightseeing, evenings can feel cooler.
Warm with increasing humidity and sporadic rain; the sea remains pleasant for swimming.
Balneário de Camboriú at Night
Hiking in Balneário de Camboriú
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular short hike to a vantage point overlooking the coast and city.
Forest trails around the hillside connected by cable car routes, with scenic lookouts.
Coastal trail offering sea views and access to multiple beaches.
Airports
How to reach Balneário de Camboriú by plane.
Closest airport, about 20-30 minutes by car on good days; international connections via hubs in São Paulo and Porto Alegre.
Florianópolis airport, about 1.5-2 hours by road; many domestic and some international connections; convenient for dual-city trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large influx of domestic and international visitors year-round, especially in summer.
Families and retirees; a mix of urban professionals and service workers.
Seasonal visitors for events and nightlife.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; games and local clubs attract community support.
Common on the beaches with surf schools and courts along the waterfront.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balneário de Camboriú.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on rice and beans, salads, grilled vegetables, and fruit; many places offer veggie options or can adapt dishes. Look for legumes like feijão, farofa, and pão de queijo fillings without meat.