Things To Do
in Barra Velha

Barra Velha is a charming coastal town located in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant local culture, it attracts both tourists and locals alike. The town is celebrated for its seafood cuisine and offers a range of outdoor activities such as surfing and hiking.

Visitors can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while exploring the scenic coastline and enjoying various water sports.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Barra Velha
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along Praia Central, taking in the beautiful views and fresh ocean air. Grab a breakfast of pão de queijo and coffee from a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Barra Velha Historical Museum to learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Afterward, enjoy a seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant.

evening
:

Head to the local market to sample street food and enjoy the sunset over the ocean. Conclude your day with a visit to a bar for live music and drinks.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a morning surfing lesson at Praia do Grant, known for its good waves. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café after your lesson.

afternoon
:

Take a hike at the nearby Morro do Cristo for panoramic views of the coastline. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top.

evening
:

End your day with a traditional Brazilian churrasco dinner at a popular local steakhouse, followed by a walk along the beach.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🏖️Beach chair rental$5
🚌Bus ticket$1
🍦Ice cream$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes.
  • Rich local culture and cuisine.
  • Wide range of outdoor activities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Obrigado" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica a praia?" - Where is the beach?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Barra Velha

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia da Barra

A stunning beach with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for capturing sunsets.

Morro do Cristo

Offers breathtaking views of the coastline, ideal for panoramic shots.

Historic Center

Featuring charming colonial buildings that reflect the town's history and culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Barra Velha

Barra Velha is a haven for food lovers, especially those who enjoy fresh seafood. The local cuisine features a variety of dishes that highlight the region's coastal bounty, making it a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

Barra Velha Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fried Fish

Locally caught fish, seasoned and fried to perfection, served with lime and salad.

Must-Try!

Moqueca

A traditional Brazilian fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and peppers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A vibrant market where you can sample local delicacies and buy fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal products.

Street Vendors

Various vendors along the beachfront offer snacks like pastéis (fried pastries) and acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters).

Climate Guide

Weather

Barra Velha has a tropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is common in the summer months, while winters are drier. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; people often greet with a smile and 'Oi!'

Dress Code

Casual beach attire is acceptable; however, dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you do; it's polite to say 'Bom Apetite' before meals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Barra Velha is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious in less populated areas at night. Make sure to use reputable transportation services and stay aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Barra Velha

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and street food.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures and busy beaches; ideal for water sports and festivals.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder weather, fewer tourists, perfect for hiking and exploring local culture.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures; it's less crowded and a good time for relaxing retreats.

Spring (September - November)

Warm weather returns, making it a great time for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Nightlife Guide

Barra Velha at Night

Barra Velha offers a vibrant nightlife scene with beach bars, live music venues, and clubs. Locals and tourists come together to enjoy samba and forró dancing, particularly on weekends. The beachfront bars are popular for sunset cocktails, while some clubs host themed parties and DJ nights.

Hiking in Barra Velha

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro do Cristo

A moderate hike leading to the top of Morro do Cristo, offering stunning views of the coastline and surrounding areas.

Trilha da Praia do Grant

A scenic trail that runs along the coastline, perfect for walking and enjoying the beach scenery.

Airports

How to reach Barra Velha by plane.

Navegantes International Airport (NVT)

Located about 30 km from Barra Velha, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Barra Velha is quite walkable, especially along the beachfront and in the town center. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some hilly areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

A mix of families, retirees, and young professionals who enjoy the coastal lifestyle and community events.

Tourists

Visitors from Brazil and abroad, particularly during the summer months when the beaches are most popular.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A beloved sport in Brazil, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Surfing

With its surf-friendly beaches, surfing is a popular sport and pastime among locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Barra Velha is generally light, especially outside of peak tourist season. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns. Most areas are accessible by foot or bicycle, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Barra Velha.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free

Many local dishes are naturally gluten-free, but always check with restaurants for specific options.

Vegetarian

While seafood is prominent, there are vegetarian options available, particularly in salads and rice dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Barra Velha are adequate for minor ailments, with a few clinics and pharmacies available. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals can be found in nearby cities like Balneário Camboriú. Travel insurance is recommended for tourists.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide