Things To Do
in Matinhos

Matinhos is a charming coastal town located in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Known for its beautiful beaches and lush natural surroundings, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The town is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, especially during the summer months.

With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community, Matinhos provides visitors with a unique Brazilian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to Praia Brava, known for its stunning views and surf-friendly waves.

afternoon
:

Head to Praia Mansa for a relaxing afternoon, enjoying the calm waters and perhaps indulging in a beachside lunch of fresh seafood.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a sunset stroll along the beach, followed by dinner at a beachfront restaurant featuring local cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Parque Nacional de Superagüi, where you can enjoy hiking through trails lined with diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Explore the local artisan shops and markets in the town center, where you can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy an evening of local music and dance at a cultural venue, experiencing the vibrant nightlife Matinhos has to offer.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍦Ice cream cone$3
🏖️Beach chair rental$5
🚌Local bus fare$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica a praia?" - Where is the beach?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Matinhos

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia Brava

Capture breathtaking sunrise views and the raw beauty of the ocean waves crashing against the rocks.

Parque Nacional de Superagüi

A natural paradise providing stunning landscapes of lush forests and serene beaches, ideal for nature photography.

Mirante do Morro do Cristo

An overlook point offering panoramic views of Matinhos and the coastline, perfect for sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Matinhos

Matinhos is a culinary delight, offering a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Brazil’s southern coast.

Matinhos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barreado

A traditional meat stew slow-cooked in a clay pot, served with rice and bananas.

Must-Try!

Pastel

Fried pastry filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or vegetables, often sold at street stalls.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira do Produtor

A bustling market where local farmers sell fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering local snacks like tapioca pancakes and grilled seafood along the beach promenade.

Climate Guide

Weather

Matinhos has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Summers can be hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). Winters are mild, with temperatures typically between 12°C and 22°C (54°F to 72°F). Rainfall is more common during the summer months, while winters tend to be drier.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Brazilians are warm and friendly, often greeting with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.

Dress Code

Casual beachwear is acceptable, but dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local homes.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal, and it's polite to say 'Bom Apetite!' before meals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Matinhos is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take precautions such as not displaying valuables openly and avoiding isolated areas at night. Always use registered taxis or rideshare services, especially after dark.

Tipping in Matinhos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's common to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but cash is often preferred for smaller purchases and street food.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and bustling beaches, making this the peak tourist season.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder weather with fewer crowds, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures; while it's less crowded, some attractions may have limited hours.

Spring (September to November)

A great time for blooming flowers and pleasant weather, perfect for hiking and exploring.

Nightlife Guide

Matinhos at Night

Matinhos boasts a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars and clubs offering music, dancing, and entertainment. Local bars often feature live music, ranging from samba to electronic, creating an energetic atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy beach parties during the summer months, where DJs play popular music until the early hours of the morning.

Hiking in Matinhos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Cardoso

A scenic trail in Parque Nacional de Superagüi that leads to stunning viewpoints and diverse wildlife.

Trilha da Praia de Fora

This coastal trail offers breathtaking views of the ocean and rock formations, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Matinhos by plane.

Aeroporto Internacional de Curitiba

Located approximately 80 km from Matinhos, this international airport connects the region to various destinations in Brazil and abroad.

Getting Around

Walkability

Matinhos is quite walkable, especially along the beachfront where pedestrian paths are well-maintained. The town center is compact, making it easy to explore shops, restaurants, and attractions on foot. However, some attractions may require local transportation if they are farther from the main area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Brazilian, with a mix of families and retirees who enjoy the coastal lifestyle.

Tourists

Matinhos attracts a diverse range of tourists, particularly from other parts of Brazil, drawn by its beaches and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Beach Soccer

A favorite pastime among locals, beach soccer is often played in teams along the sandy shores.

Surfing

Surfing is a popular sport in Matinhos, with many schools offering lessons for beginners and advanced surfers alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Matinhos is generally light, especially outside the peak tourist season. Public transportation is available via local buses, which are an affordable way to navigate the town and nearby areas. During the summer, traffic can increase due to tourists, so it's advisable to plan travel times accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Matinhos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to inquire about meat broth in soups.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; however, fresh salads and grilled meats are often safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Matinhos is limited, with a few clinics and a hospital available for basic medical services. For more serious health issues, residents typically travel to larger cities like Curitiba for treatment. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facilities.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide