Things To Do
in Bombinhas

Bombinhas is a charming coastal town in Santa Catarina known for its crystal-clear waters and preserved beaches. Located on a peninsula that carves out several protected coves, it offers calm bays and dramatic rocky headlands perfect for exploration. The town preserves a fishing-village feel with seafood-centric eateries, laid-back vibes, and family-friendly beaches.

It’s a premier spot for snorkeling, coastal walks, and scenic sunset moments along the Brunswick coast.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Praia de Bombinhas
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Praia de Bombinhas, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Spend your morning swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the sun on the sandy shoreline. Don't forget to grab a fresh coconut water from a beach vendor for a refreshing drink as you relax.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take a stroll around the charming town of Bombinhas and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local seafood restaurant, where you can taste the local specialties. Afterward, visit the nearby Playa do Morro for some breathtaking views and perhaps a bit more snorkeling. As the sun starts to lower, consider taking a short hike along the coastal trails for panoramic vistas.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a cozy beachside bar where you can unwind with a Caipirinha while watching the sunset over the horizon. Enjoy a delicious dinner of fresh seafood, complemented by locally sourced ingredients, at a restaurant with live music for the perfect ambiance. Conclude your day by taking a peaceful walk along the beach under the stars.

day 2
Visit Sepultura Beach
morning
:

Begin your exploration of Sepultura Beach with a delicious breakfast at a local cafe, fuel up for a day of adventure. Spend the morning snorkeling in the calm waters, where you’ll find a diverse range of marine life scattered among colorful corals. The clear waters and vibrant surroundings make it a perfect spot for capturing stunning photographs.

afternoon
:

After a morning of activity, enjoy a relaxing afternoon sunbathing or having a picnic on the beach. Check out some local shops nearby for unique souvenirs, and indulge in some regional snacks for lunch. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak to explore the area from a different perspective.

evening
:

For the evening, visit a traditional Brazilian steakhouse for a hearty meal with various cuts of meat served tableside. After dinner, experience Bombinhas' nightlife by visiting local bars featuring live music or samba, immersing yourself in the vibrant Brazilian culture. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you dance the night away with locals and travelers alike.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$25-50
Coffee in café$2-5
🎟️Movie ticket$5-10
🚕Taxi ride within town$4-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning, calm beaches with clear water
  • Great for snorkeling, family-friendly atmosphere, and seafood cuisine
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Can be crowded during peak season and some beaches require driving or short hikes
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Bombinhas

Visit one of these nice places.

Lagoinha Natural Pools

Rocky coves with turquoise tidal pools—best at low tide for reflective water and dramatic silhouettes.

Praia dos Quatro Ilhas

Wide golden sands backed by crystal-clear water and rugged headlands; a classic spot for wide-angle seascapes.

Praia de Bombinhas (Centro) Pier View

Coastal promenade and pier vantage points offering sunset backdrops and boats returning to harbor.

Mirante do Centro

Elevated overlook with sweeping views of the town, bays, and distant islands—ideal for panoramic shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bombinhas

Bombinhas cuisine centers on fresh seafood with influences from Italian and German heritage typical of Santa Catarina, delivered across simple beachside spots and refined eateries.

Bombinhas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca de peixe

A seafood stew featuring fish, tomatoes, onions, and coconut milk, often served with rice and farofa.

Must-Try!

Peixe grelhado com acompanhamentos

Grilled fish with citrus, potatoes, salad, and a light olive oil dressing; a staple at many chiringuitos.

Camarão na moranga

Shrimp cooked in a flavorful pumpkin shell, a popular coastal dish with festive presentation.

Pastel de Camarão

Shrimp-filled pastries sold hot from street stalls and markets along the beach promenade.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bombinhas Local Market

Small markets near the waterfront offering fresh fish, seafood, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks; look for fried fish, pastel, and churros.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bombinhas has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summers (Dec-Feb) are hot with frequent sunny days and refreshing sea breezes, while winters (Jun-Aug) are cooler with comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler evenings. Rain is possible year-round, with slightly higher chances in the shoulder seasons; sea conditions vary seasonally but are generally favorable for snorkeling and boating in the warmer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

GreetingNorms

A polite greeting in Portuguese (Olá) goes a long way; handshakes are common, and eye contact is valued.

TippingRespect

Show appreciation with a courteous “obrigado(a)” after good service; avoid loud behavior in quiet cafes or churches.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bombinhas is generally safe for travelers, but standard travel cautions apply: watch belongings on crowded beaches, be mindful of tides and currents when swimming, and follow local guidance for water activities. Use reputable operators for snorkeling or diving, and avoid isolated areas at night. Keep aware of vehicle and personal security in peak tourist seasons.

Tipping in Bombinhas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service at restaurants is common when service charge isn’t included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors; ATMs are common in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Peak season brings warm days, light breezes, and crowded beaches. Expect bright sunshine, full coastline access, and vibrant nightlife along the promenade.

Autumn

Pleasant shoulder season with milder weather, fewer crowds, and excellent visibility for boat trips and snorkeling.

Winter

Cooler sea temperatures with occasional rainy days; beach days are still possible, but plan for lighter crowds and lower hotel rates.

Spring

Warm-up period with rising water temperatures; ideal for hiking coastal trails and early-season snorkeling.

Nightlife Guide

Bombinhas at Night

Bombinhas has a relaxed nightlife scene centered on beach bars, casual live music, and sunset drinks. Expect laid-back venues, seafood-focused eateries with sea views, and occasional late-night dancing in peak season. For a broader options, head to nearby towns along the coast for more bars and clubs, but most evenings are family-friendly and oriented to enjoying the waterfront.

Hiking in Bombinhas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lagoinha–Mariscal Coastal Path

A scenic coastal hike linking Lagoinha and Mariscal beaches with multiple viewpoints along the way.

Quatro Ilhas Beach Trail

A seaside trail featuring rock outcrops, coves, and opportunities for photography at sea cliffs.

Bombinhas Center to Ponta do Estaleiro

Short-to-moderate hikes with sea panoramas, ideal for sunset photography and easy day trips.

Zimbros Reserve Loop

A forested loop near Zimbros with shaded paths and chances to spot local birds and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Bombinhas by plane.

Aeroporto Internacional de Navegantes (NVT)

Major regional gateway about 70–100 km away, with ground transfer options to Bombinhas; frequent flights from Brazilian hubs.

Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis-Hercílio Luz (FLN)

Main city airport roughly 80–120 km away; good connectivity to rest of Brazil and international destinations; rental cars and shuttles available.

Aeroporto de Joinville-Lauro Carneiro de Loyola (JOI)

Another regional option about 150–180 km away, with connections to major Brazilian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bombinhas offers a walkable town center with compact beaches and a scenic waterfront promenade. Some beaches are easily accessible on foot, while others require short drives or trails; parking can be challenging in peak season. A pleasant option for strolling is the central coast path and harbor area, but plan for longer trips if you want to reach remote coves on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Young families and multi-generational groups are common, attracted by calm waters and safe beaches.

Beachgoers

Local and regional visitors who come for sun, seafood, and coastal scenery.

Couples

Romantic trips with sunset dinners and scenic viewpoints are popular year-round.

Retirees

Year-round visitors who appreciate a relaxed pace, gentle activities, and seafood cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

Nearby beaches and coastal breaks attract surf lovers, especially in windier months.

Beach volleyball

A common activity on many beaches with casual games and nets set up during the day.

SCUBA diving

Diving excursions explore reefs, marine life, and underwater rock formations.

Stand-up paddleboarding

Calm bays are ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavier during peak season as visitors travel between beaches and town centers. Public transportation options are limited; renting a car or using taxis and ride-sharing services is common. Parking can be scarce near popular beaches on weekends, so plan ahead.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bombinhas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Options exist in many spots as salads, rice dishes, maioras (grilled vegetables), and pasta; ask for sem carne or sem peixe (without meat or fish) and look for vegetarian specials or sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available in Bombinhas via local clinics; for more complex or emergency care, larger hospitals can be found in adjacent cities such as Itajaí, Joinville, or Florianópolis. Private clinics and pharmacies are common in town, with international visitor services available in larger centers nearby.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide