Things To Do
in Santa Cecília
Santa Cecília is a small coastal town in Santa Catarina, Brazil, where emerald bays meet pine-clad hills. It blends a laid-back, friendly vibe with a working fishing culture and a growing arts scene. Colorful streets, local markets, and seafood-focused dining give visitors an authentic regional flavor.
Surrounded by nature reserves and scenic viewpoints, it serves as a gateway to easy day trips along the southern coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting the vibrant local market where you can immerse yourself in the culture and taste fresh tropical fruits. Interact with local vendors and discover unique handicrafts that reflect the rich heritage of Santa Cecília. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional Brazilian pastries.
After lunch, head over to the town's historical museum to learn about the history and traditions of the region. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets, capturing the colorful architecture and engaging with friendly locals. Don’t miss the chance to visit a nearby artisan workshop to see traditional crafts being made.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to savor authentic Brazilian cuisine, perhaps trying the famous feijoada. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as local musicians bring the night to life with traditional tunes. Wrap up the day by taking a scenic walk along the river, enjoying the stars and cool breeze.
Begin with a guided hike in the nearby national park, where the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife will leave you in awe. Bask in the beauty of cascading waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints that offer perfect photo opportunities. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of native birds.
After the hike, have a picnic lunch in one of the park’s designated areas, savoring the tranquil surroundings. Spend the afternoon exploring various trails and discovering hidden gems, like serene lakes and lush greenery. Partake in birdwatching or simply relax and soak in the beauty of nature.
Return to town for a casual dinner at a local churrascaria, where you can indulge in succulent grilled meats. As night falls, mingle with locals at a nearby bar for some live music and vibrant conversation. End your evening with a leisurely walk to see the beautifully lit up town square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥖Grocery staple (bread, milk, etc.) | $2-6 |
| 🏖️Beach chair rental | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi or rideshare (short ride) | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and fresh seafood
- Relaxed, friendly vibe and easy access to nature
- Affordability compared to larger Brazilian cities
- Good base for day trips along the southern coast
- Limited public transportation in some outskirts
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Language barrier outside tourist-focused spots
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Você pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Santa Cecília
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal cliff overlooking the bay, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour coastal shots.
A tranquil lagoon with mirror-like water and surrounding greenery—great for reflection photos.
Hilltop vantage point offering sweeping views of the coastline and nearby islands.
Food in Santa Cecília
Santa Cecília Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful fish stew cooked with coconut milk, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs; best enjoyed with fresh cassava or rice.
Must-Try!
A fragrant seafood rice dish featuring shrimp, mussels, and squid, often finished with a squeeze of lime.
Creamy polenta topped with a savory meat or vegetable ragu, a comforting regional staple.
Brazilian grilled meats served with farofa, salad, and warm pão de queijo on the side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, snacks, and small eateries; great place to sample local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake is common; among closer acquaintances, a light kiss on the cheek may occur in social settings. Use the person's title when appropriate.
Portuguese is the primary language; learning a few basic phrases goes a long way; avoid sensitive political debates with strangers.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cecília
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; a 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service in restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit/debit cards are common in most establishments; mobile payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a lightweight rain layer.
Pleasant, with cooler evenings and fewer crowds; ideal for hiking and outdoor dining.
Milder temperatures with occasional rain; coastal winds can feel cooler, bring a light jacket.
Warm days with blooming flora and lively street markets; great for photography and strolls.
Santa Cecília at Night
Hiking in Santa Cecília
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic ridge trail with coastal and hillside views; moderate effort and good photo opportunities.
Easy loop around a crystal-clear lagoon, ideal for birdwatching and family hikes.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cecília by plane.
Nearest major airport serving the region; typically 20-40 km from Santa Cecília depending on route.
Regional hub in Florianópolis; longer drive but has broader international connections.
Alternative in Joinville with domestic flights; roughly 90-110 km away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly family-oriented with a mix of long-term residents and seasonal visitors.
Tourism-driven population, especially in summer months, brings a more dynamic local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and beach pickup games are common on weekends.
Nearby beaches attract surfers during favorable conditions.
Casual courts line some beaches; occasional tournaments occur seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cecília.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants; look for salads, moquecas without seafood, polenta, beans, and roasted vegetables. Ask to replace meat with extra vegetables or cheese, and request pode farofa sem carne when possible.