Things To Do
in Pontal do Paraná
Pontal do Paraná is a coastal municipality in Paraná, Brazil, anchored by vibrant beaches and a gateway to Ilha do Mel. The region blends fishing heritage with easygoing beach life, offering long sandy shores, dunes, and lush mangroves. Visitors commonly reach Ilha do Mel via boat from Pontal do Sul, making day trips and overnight stays common.
The atmosphere is laid-back, with seafood restaurants, sunset vistas, and nature-filled activities shaping the coastal experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Brazilian pão de queijo and fresh fruit juice. Afterward, head to the stunning Praia de Leste, known for its golden sands and gentle waves. Spend the morning sunbathing and swimming in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, collecting seashells and admiring the scenic coastal views. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant, where you can try the local catch of the day. After lunch, engage in some water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking, getting a unique perspective of the coastline.
As the sun sets, take a moment to relax on the beach and watch the colorful sky transform. Head to a nearby beachfront bar for a taste of local caipirinhas while listening to live music. Finish your evening dining at a charming restaurant, where the aroma of grilled fish fills the air.
Embark on an early morning adventure to Parque Nacional de Superagüi, where the lush greenery and diverse wildlife await. Enjoy a guided nature walk, observing the unique flora and fauna of the park while learning about its ecological significance. Keep your camera ready to capture the stunning landscapes and perhaps spot some rare bird species.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of the forest. Continue your hike through scenic trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and tranquil lagoons along the way. Take the time to appreciate the serene beauty and peacefulness of this untouched paradise.
Return to Pontal do Paraná in the early evening, feeling refreshed and energized from your time in nature. Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant that serves traditional Brazilian dishes, ensuring to try the feijoada. Cap off your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the night sky filled with stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi start (short ride) | $2-5 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic items, per day) | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to Ilha do Mel and diverse coastal scenery
- Relaxed, seafood-focused coastal culture
- Smaller tourism scene compared to larger Brazilian cities
- Seasonal crowds can affect prices and availability
- "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?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu não falo português muito bem" - I don’t speak Portuguese very well
Places to Visit in Pontal do Paraná
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the calm sea, with palm trees framing the shoreline and a peaceful start to the day.
Colorful boats, fishing nets, and a rustic pier provide productive foregrounds for coastal life photography.
The crossing from Pontal do Sul yields shots of the water, boats, and distant island silhouettes—great for dramatic horizons.
Lighthouse-adjacent viewpoints and shaded trails offer coastal and seascape photography opportunities.
Food in Pontal do Paraná
Pontal do Paraná Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly fried fish served with white rice, salad, and a squeeze of lime—a staple for beachgoers.
Must-Try!
A light coastal fish stew with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, best enjoyed with crusty bread or rice.
Seafood arroz cooked with shrimp and mussels, a hearty dish popular at seaside restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and snacks, with casual stalls by the shoreline.
Casual lanes with vendors selling pastel, fried fish bites, and coconut water in a breezy beachfront setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple greeting like 'Bom dia' (good morning) or 'Oi/Olá' is appreciated. Use 'Senhor' or 'Senhora' with formal interactions.
Respect personal space and avoid loud behavior in public areas. Ask before photographing people, especially in small communities.
Dispose of trash properly, respect wildlife and protected areas, and support local businesses and fishermen.
Safety
Tipping in Pontal do Paraná
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving around 5-10% for good service is common; for exceptional service, 10-15% is acceptable.
Cash (BRL) is widely accepted, as are major credit/debit cards. Digital payments (PIX, QR code) are increasingly common, especially in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with abundant sunshine and busy beaches. Bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and expect higher prices and crowds near popular spots.
Milder temperatures and lighter crowds. Pleasant for outdoor activities and island visits, with comfortable sea conditions.
Cooler but generally mild coastal climate. Jacket may be needed at night; seas can be calmer, though weather can be windy.
Moderate temperatures with blooming vegetation. Great for hikes and photography with less heat and moderate crowds.
Pontal do Paraná at Night
Hiking in Pontal do Paraná
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy coastal hike with dune vistas, mangroves, and opportunity for birdwatching along the shoreline.
Moderate trails on Ilha do Mel offering forested paths, viewpoints, and access to beaches such as Praia do Farol.
Airports
How to reach Pontal do Paraná by plane.
Major international air gateway to the region; about a 100-140 km drive from Pontal do Paraná, with domestic connections and car rental options.
Smaller regional airport serving limited flights; often used for charter or domestic connections, typically requiring transfer via Curitiba.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding families and caiçara communities maintain fishing traditions and contribute to the authentic coastal culture.
Domestic and regional travelers seeking beaches, island trips, and relaxed coastal experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal beaches nearby provide opportunities for surfing, with gentle to moderate breaks suitable for beginners and experienced surfers during appropriate seasons.
Calm coastal waters and mangrove-lined channels are ideal for paddling and exploring the shoreline from the water.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pontal do Paraná.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy salads, plant-based sides, and dairy-free options in most beachside eateries. Ask for vegetarian plates or customize seafood dishes into lighter vegetable-forward options; many places can adjust recipes if you request less meat or no fish.