Things To Do
in Içara
Içara is a friendly mid-sized city in southern Santa Catarina, Brazil, known for its strong community spirit and practical charm. It sits near Criciúma and offers easy access to both coastal beaches and rolling hills. The town blends industrial activity with agricultural roots, visible in its markets and bakeries.
Visitors can explore a compact historic center, sample regional cuisine, and use Içara as a relaxed base to explore the broader region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Içara and check into your hotel in the city center. Take a short walk to familiarize yourself with the local streets and architecture. Stop at a café to savor a fresh Brazilian coffee and pastel.
Visit the Municipal Museum to learn about Içara’s history and traditions. Stroll through the central plaza and admire the colonial-style buildings. Browse local shops for souvenirs and handicrafts.
Dine at a traditional churrascaria and taste authentic Brazilian barbecue. Enjoy a peaceful walk along Rua Sete de Setembro as streetlights illuminate the historic facades. Sample a caipirinha at a nearby lounge to cap off your first night.
Head to Morro dos Conventos Beach to feel the soft sand and gentle waves. Relax under a palm tree and read a book while listening to seagulls. Grab a fresh coconut from a beach vendor to stay refreshed.
Swim in the clear Atlantic waters or try bodyboarding on the small surf. Explore the tide pools near the rocky outcrops for marine life. Enjoy a beachside lunch of seafood snacks and cold juices.
Return to town and shower off before dinner. Find a beachfront restaurant for a meal of fried fish and rice while watching the sunset. Take a leisurely evening stroll along Avenida Catarina, enjoying the coastal breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🏨Hotel nightly rate (mid-range) | $50-120 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, walkable city with friendly locals
- Close access to beaches and hills for day trips
- Rich cultural influences from Italian and German heritage
- Affordable dining and lodging for travelers
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger Brazilian cities
- Smaller tourism infrastructure; some services require a short drive to larger towns
- Less English commonly spoken outside tourist areas
- Weather can be humid and rainy in shoulder seasons
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Eu não falo muito bem português" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
- "Você pode recomendar um prato típico?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
Places to Visit in Içara
Visit one of these nice places.
A central square with historic facades and everyday city life, ideal for portraits and street photography.
A scenic overlook along the town’s river area offering sunset shots and city panorama.
Industrial-chic waterfront area with reflections on the water and urban silhouettes, especially at blue hour.
Food in Içara
Içara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried polenta served with a savory ragú or mushroom sauce, a staple in regional cafés.
Must-Try!
Seasonal roasted or boiled pine nuts used as a snack or incorporated into dishes when pinhão is in season.
Savory corn bread with cheese and onions, commonly shared in family meals and street markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and regional snacks—perfect for a quick bite or picnic ingredients.
Weekend street markets with grilled corn, pastel, coxinha, and other popular Brazilian street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshakes are common; a light kiss on the cheek may occur with friends and family. Use formal address with older people if unsure.
Dressing modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; avoid loud behavior in quiet neighborhoods.
Ask permission when photographing people in private spaces; respect closures and signage.
Safety
Tipping in Içara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not always mandatory. Leave around 5-10% if the service charge is not included. Cash is always welcome, but cards and mobile payments (Pix, contactless) are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity and occasional sudden afternoon showers; bring sun protection and light rain gear.
Milder temperatures and turning foliage; pleasant for outdoor strolls and early-evening activities.
Cool but rarely cold; crisp mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures — layer up for mornings and nights.
Fresh air, blooming flora, and increasing humidity; great time for hikes and outdoor markets.
Içara at Night
Hiking in Içara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several short, scenic trails through Atlantic Forest remnants and coastal viewpoints within a short drive from Içara.
Gentle day hikes offering panoramic views over valleys and the coastline, suitable for most fitness levels.
Easy trails near urban centers that showcase local flora and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Içara by plane.
A smaller regional airport closer to Içara with domestic flights and easier access for quick trips.
The main international airport for the region, about a few hours' drive away; well-connected with international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically rooted families and commuters who work in industry, services, and agriculture.
A growing number of students and young workers drawn to the region’s affordable living and educational institutions.
Regional travelers seeking beaches, nature, and cultural experiences in southern Santa Catarina.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region with local leagues and community fields.
Common in schools and clubs, with coastal beaches offering sand volleyball during warmer months.
Indoor-size football games widely played in gyms and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Içara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options like polenta, salads, cheeses, and legumes; ask for sem carne and vegetais.