Things To Do
in Lajes
Lajes is a windswept coastal town in southern Brazil known for its maritime charm, fresh seafood, and laid-back atmosphere. The shoreline and surrounding hills offer scenic viewpoints, fishing heritage, and approachable day trips from the town center. The town blends rural character with a strong seaside identity, making it an ideal base for relaxed exploration and easy access to nature.
Visitors are rewarded with welcoming locals, market flavors, and coastal scenery year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh fruits and traditional Brazilian pastries. After breakfast, wander through the charming streets of Lajes, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the town. Don't forget to stop by the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, a stunning church that stands as a testament to the town's rich history.
After a morning of exploration, grab a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties like feijoada or moqueca. Spend the afternoon visiting the Museu Histórico de Lajes, where you can delve into the region's cultural heritage through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Take a stroll through the quaint parks that dot the town, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps enjoying a refreshing coconut water.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant to enjoy dinner, where you can savor grilled seafood and regional delicacies. Engage with locals while enjoying live music that often accompanies meals in this vibrant town. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the town square, where you can reflect on the day's discoveries under the starry sky.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the nearby beaches of the Atlantic coast. Spend the morning enjoying the sun and surf at Praia do Sol, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. The warm sand under your feet and the sound of waves crashing create the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure.
After a morning by the beach, enjoy a beachside lunch featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits at one of the local beach kiosks. In the afternoon, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the colorful marine life and coral reefs just off the shore, providing an unforgettable underwater experience. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins that are often spotted in the waters around the beach.
As the sun sets, head back to the beach for a magical evening of beach bonfire fun, where you can roast marshmallows and swap stories with fellow travelers. Enjoy a beachfront dinner at a popular restaurant, savoring the catch of the day as you listen to the soothing sound of the ocean. This enchanting setting will leave you with lasting memories of a perfect beach day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (3-5 km) | $5-10 |
| 🏡1-bedroom apartment, city center (monthly) | $350-700 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and fresh seafood at accessible prices
- Relaxed pace, safe and walkable town center
- Limited large-city amenities and English fluency outside tourist spots
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with bigger cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Lajes
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy shoreline with blue water and dramatic sunsets; ideal for golden hour photos and wide ocean shots.
A lookout point above the coast offering expansive views of the coastline and the harbor; perfect for panoramic photos.
Picturesque harbor area with boats, rippling water, and masts; great for street photography and candid portraits.
Remnants of a coastal fortify-structure that adds character and a historical backdrop to images.
Food in Lajes
Lajes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish stew with coconut milk, dendê oil, peppers, and onions, best enjoyed with arroz and farofa.
Must-Try!
Shrimp casseroled in a creamy manioc (cassava) paste sauce with garlic, coconut milk, and palm oil.
Seafood rice featuring a mix of fish, shrimp, mussels, and squid stirred through saffron-tinted rice.
Southern-style grilled meats served with fresh sides; a hearty option for meat lovers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market offering fresh fish, seafood, fruits, cassava, and regional snacks; great for picking up ingredients or trying small bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as 'Bom dia' or 'Oi' are appreciated; handshake is common; among friends, cheek kissing is common in many parts of Brazil—confirm preference first.
Portuguese is the primary language; attempting a few basic phrases is well received. English is less common outside tourist spots.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate or family settings; modest dress is appreciated in religious or traditional spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Lajes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping is customary but not always mandatory. A 5-10% tip is common for good service in restaurants; many smaller places do not include a service charge. Round up the bill or leave a small tip for hotel staff and taxi drivers if you’re satisfied.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; PIX mobile payments are increasingly common for quick transfers and small purchases, especially in markets and cafes. Carry some local currency for small stalls and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity and sea breezes; expect more visitors and busier beaches; occasional tropical showers in the afternoon.
Milder temperatures with comfortable days and cooler evenings; sea can still be pleasant for swimming in early autumn.
Cooler and drier spells with occasional rain; excellent time for coastal hikes and fewer crowds, though water may be too cold for swimming for some.
Pleasant temperatures and moderate humidity; blooming coastal flora enhances hikes and scenic drives.
Lajes at Night
Hiking in Lajes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short to moderate hike along sea cliffs with ocean panoramas and opportunities to spot seabirds.
A scenic coastal route from the harbor area to a historic lighthouse with varied terrain and photo opportunities.
Shaded, easy trails through urban parkland with accessible entrances and gentle grades.
Airports
How to reach Lajes by plane.
Major gateway to the region with domestic and international flights; connected by road and bus to Lajes.
Convenient for domestic flights and a common alternative for southern Santa Catarina access; about a shorter drive to coastal towns.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; a bit farther but useful for accessing northern points of the state.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents across generations, largely centered around fishing, services, and small-scale commerce.
Longstanding presence along the harbor, contributing fresh seafood and local culture.
People drawn to the town for education, work opportunities, and coastal lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread at community fields and local clubs; weekend matches are common social events.
Popular along the southern coastline; suitable for beginners with local instruction available.
A common activity on public beaches, especially on sunny days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lajes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in markets and some restaurants; look for salads, bean dishes, cheese, and cassava-based plates. When unsure, ask for 'sem carne' or 'sem peixe' to avoid fish or meat; many places can adapt dishes with local vegetables.