Things To Do
in Itajaí
Itajaí is a port city in Santa Catarina on the Itajaí-Açu River, facing the Atlantic and connected to a vibrant fishing community. The waterfront blends industry with seafood markets, historic streets, and a growing café culture. Its proximity to Balneário Camboriú and other coastal spots makes Itajaí a convenient base for day trips along the southern Brazilian coast.
The city offers easy access to nature, tasty seafood, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere typical of Brazil’s southern coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh Brazilian coffee and pão de queijo. Afterward, embark on a walking tour of Itajaí's Historic Center, where you can admire colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't forget to visit the Igreja Matriz do Santíssimo Sacramento, a stunning church that showcases the city's rich history.
Post-lunch, explore the bustling Mercado Público, where local vendors sell fresh seafood, artisan crafts, and tropical fruits. Spend some time chatting with the locals and sampling delicious regional dishes like 'seco com feijão' and 'pastel de camarão'. Afterward, stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade to enjoy the views of the Itajaí River.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along the river to indulge in a delightful seafood dinner, accompanied by a glass of local wine. Experience the lively atmosphere as the city transitions into night, with music and laughter filling the air. End your evening by taking a moonlit walk along the waterfront, soaking in the serene ambiance.
Spend your morning at Praia Brava, one of Itajaí's most beautiful beaches, known for its golden sands and crashing waves. Rent a sun lounger and sip on a refreshing coconut water while soaking up the sun. For the adventurous spirit, take a surfing lesson with a local instructor and ride the morning waves.
After a morning of sun and surf, grab lunch at a beachside kiosk offering delicious seafood dishes like grilled fish and shrimp skewers. Spend the afternoon jet skiing or paddleboarding along the coastline, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding hills. If you're feeling more relaxed, simply enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach, collecting seashells and taking in the vibrant beach culture.
As the day winds down, find a beachfront bar to enjoy a delicious caipirinha, Brazil's national cocktail, while watching the sunset over the Atlantic. Dine at a local restaurant known for its grilled seafood, where you can sample the catch of the day. The lively beach atmosphere continues into the night, with music and dancing at nearby beach clubs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚌One-way local transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🧭Souvenirs and local crafts | $5-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Relaxed, friendly vibe with reasonable prices
- Public transport can be limited outside the city center
- Summer rainfall can disrupt outdoor plans and seas can be rough
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Itajaí
Visit one of these nice places.
Industrial harbor with cranes, boats, and dynamic light during sunrise or sunset.
Long sandy stretch with rocky outcrops; perfect for long-exposure seascapes at golden hour.
Colorful market facade and bustling stalls ideal for street and portrait photography.
Food in Itajaí
Itajaí Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional fish stew with tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, and onions; best enjoyed with fresh fish at pescarias along the harbor.
Must-Try!
Shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil, served with rice and salad.
Crispy fried freshwater catfish, a regional staple often found at markets and taverns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Busy fish market by the harbor offering ultra-fresh seafood and ready-to-eat options.
Historic public market with stalls selling produce, baked goods, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and say bom dia/boa tarde; use senhor/senhora when addressing strangers or elders.
Polite conversation and respect for personal space; avoid loud talking in public places.
Eat with utensils; learning a few phrases like por favor and obrigado is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Itajaí
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a 10% service charge is common in many restaurants; if not included, leave around 5–10% in cash or add to the card payment.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller shops; mobile wallets and contactless payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid, and with frequent rain showers; great for beach days but expect crowds and occasional tropical storms.
Milder temperatures and fewer crowds; pleasant for outdoor exploring and boat trips.
Cooler and drier, with mild evenings; sea can be cooler for swimming and water activities.
Comfortable temperatures with coastal greenery; ideal for hiking and market visits.
Itajaí at Night
Hiking in Itajaí
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy trails along the river and coastline with sea views and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Itajaí by plane.
Located in Navegantes, about 10-15 km from Itajaí; affordable taxis and buses connect to the city.
In Florianópolis, about 150-190 km away; a longer but common option for international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A blend of Brazilian residents with descendants from Portuguese, Italian, and German heritage; a port city with multicultural influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular; local clubs and beach games are common on weekends.
Strong wave action at several beaches; surf schools and rentals are available.
Casual games along the shore during summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Itajaí.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seek vegetable-based dishes such as salads, beans, rice dishes, grilled vegetables, and fruit. Ask for dishes without fish sauce or shellfish, and request vegetarian substitutes when possible.