Things To Do
in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, Brazil, is a charming city located in the state of Santa Catarina, known for its rich culture and beautiful landscapes. The city is surrounded by lush green hills and features a vibrant atmosphere filled with local traditions. Its proximity to the coast offers visitors stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
Santa Cruz is also known for its friendly locals and a strong sense of community.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market, Mercado Municipal, where you can enjoy fresh fruits and pastries.
Take a stroll through Parque Natural Municipal, enjoying the scenic views and lush nature trails.
Dine at Restaurante do Lago, known for its fresh seafood dishes and local ambiance.
Head to Praia do Laranjal for a relaxing morning on the beach, swimming and sunbathing.
Try kite surfing lessons available at the beach or enjoy a beach volleyball game with locals.
Visit a beach bar for sunset cocktails and enjoy live music at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $5 |
| 🍺Local beer | $3 |
| 🍏Grocery (1kg of apples) | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and beaches
- Rich local culture and friendly locals
- Diverse outdoor activities available
- Limited English-speaking services
- Public transportation can be infrequent
- Higher tourist prices in peak season
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning beach known for its clear waters and picturesque sunsets, perfect for capturing breathtaking views.
A lush park with diverse flora and fauna, offering beautiful landscapes and trails ideal for nature photography.
The historical center of Santa Cruz features colonial architecture and vibrant street art, creating a vibrant backdrop for photos.
Food in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Brazilian stew made with black beans and a variety of salted pork or beef products.
Must-Try!
A deep-fried pastry stuffed with various fillings like cheese, meat, or vegetables, often enjoyed as a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find local produce, street food, and traditional Brazilian snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common, and Brazilians often greet with a kiss on the cheek among acquaintances.
While social events may have a more relaxed attitude towards time, it’s best to arrive on time for business meetings.
Casual and comfortable attire is generally accepted, but dress smartly for dining out or attending events.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz
Ensure a smooth experience
It’s customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants, although some places might include a service charge.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for street vendors and smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm weather ideal for beach activities, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F).
Temperatures start to cool down, averaging 15-25°C (59-77°F), making it a great time for outdoor activities.
Colder temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F) can be expected, with occasional rain. Ideal for enjoying indoor cultural events.
Mild temperatures and blooming nature make this season perfect for hiking and exploring the outdoors.
Santa Cruz at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderately challenging hiking trail that leads to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area and is about a 2-hour hike.
This trail offers a scenic hike through lush forests and is ideal for nature lovers, taking approximately 3 hours to complete.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cruz by plane.
The regional airport offering domestic flights, conveniently located about 10 km from the city center, providing easy access for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population consists of local Brazilians, known for their warm hospitality and vibrant culture.
Santa Cruz attracts both domestic and international tourists, especially during the summer months, contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is immensely popular in Brazil, with many local teams and matches that attract enthusiastic fans.
With its beautiful beaches, beach volleyball is a common sport enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes are meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially salads and pasta.
Some establishments provide gluten-free dishes; however, it's advisable to check with the restaurant.