Things To Do
in Içara

Içara is a charming municipality located in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, known for its beautiful beaches and friendly atmosphere. It is situated near the Atlantic Ocean, providing residents and visitors with stunning coastal views and a variety of water activities. The town has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant community that celebrates local traditions through various festivals.

Içara is also a gateway to exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding region, making it a delightful destination for nature lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Içara
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Praia da Vila, where you can enjoy the morning sun and take a leisurely walk along the beach.

afternoon
:

Head to the local artisan market, Feira do Agricultor, to sample fresh produce and handmade crafts from local vendors.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurante Figueira, known for its delicious seafood dishes, and enjoy a relaxing evening by the beach.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Parque Natural Municipal de Içara for a morning hike, where you can explore nature trails and observe local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical Chapel of St. Joseph and the surrounding area, learning about the town's history and culture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Pizzaria La Bella, famous for its wood-fired pizzas and family-friendly atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$5
🏨Hotel night$50
🥖Loaf of bread$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and nature.
  • Friendly local community.
  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Fewer international dining choices.
  • Public transportation may be limited.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigada/o" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Içara

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia da Vila

A picturesque beach with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for capturing sunrise and sunset shots.

Parque Natural Municipal de Içara

Offers stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature photography.

Chapel of St. Joseph

An iconic historical site, great for capturing the cultural essence of Içara.

Culinary Guide

Food in Içara

Içara offers a delightful array of culinary experiences, from fresh seafood to traditional Brazilian dishes that showcase the region's flavors.

Içara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz e Feijão

A staple of Brazilian cuisine, this dish consists of rice and black beans, often served with grilled meat or fried eggs.

Must-Try!

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and palm oil, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira do Agricultor

A weekly farmer's market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and street food options like pastel (fried pastry).

Climate Guide

Weather

Içara has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Summers can see temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while winters are cooler, averaging around 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is a common greeting among locals.

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable clothing is acceptable, but dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is generally acceptable, but it's polite to inform if you will be significantly delayed.

Safety Guide

Safety

Içara is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious in less crowded areas at night. It is advisable to stay informed about local conditions and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Içara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is common to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, though it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures and bustling beaches, making it a peak time for tourists.

Autumn (March - May)

Mild weather with fewer crowds; ideal for outdoor activities and exploring local attractions.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures, with occasional rain; a quieter time to enjoy the natural scenery.

Spring (September - November)

Mild weather and blooming flowers; perfect for hiking and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Içara at Night

Içara has a relaxed nightlife scene, with several bars and casual venues offering live music and friendly atmospheres. Locals enjoy socializing over drinks at beachfront bars, especially on weekends. While the nightlife is not as vibrant as in larger cities, there are still opportunities to enjoy good music and company.

Hiking in Içara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro Pão de Açúcar

A scenic trail that leads to a viewpoint with panoramic views of Içara and the coastline, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Trilha da Serra do Faxinal

A more challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Içara by plane.

Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN)

Located approximately 180 km from Içara, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing easy access to and from the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Içara is quite walkable, particularly in the town center where most amenities are located. Sidewalks are available, and the compact size of the town makes it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas near the beaches may require a bit of walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Içara's population consists of local residents who are known for their hospitality and community spirit.

Tourists

Visitors from various regions of Brazil and abroad come to Içara to enjoy its beaches and natural beauty, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a beloved sport in Içara, with many local teams competing in regional leagues and community events.

Surfing

With its beautiful beaches, surfing is a popular activity among locals and visitors alike, especially at Praia da Vila.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Içara is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns but may have limited schedules. Cycling is also a popular way to get around, especially in the beach areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Içara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's advisable to check with restaurants beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Içara includes several clinics and a hospital that provides essential medical services. Emergency services are available, and while public healthcare is accessible, private healthcare options may be quicker for non-emergency situations.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide