10 Best Things to Do in Balneário Camboriú, Santa Catarina (Brazil)

balneário camboriú

Are you planning a trip to Brazil and looking for an offbeat destination to explore?  

Balneário Camboriú is a beautiful city located in the state of Santa Catarina, known for its picturesque beaches, lush green hills, and vibrant nightlife. 

Whether you are a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, Balneário Camboriú has something to offer to everyone. 

In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in  Balneário Camboriú that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Praia Central

Praia Central is the main beach of Balneário Camboriú and one of the most important tourist attractions of Santa Catarina. It stretches for 6 km along the Atlantic Ocean and attracts visitors year-round. 

The beach is known for its soft golden sand, crystal clear water, and excellent facilities for water sports. 

The beach season usually lasts from November to April, although there can still be some good days to go to the beach during the winter months from June to September.

Praia Central offers a number of options to choose from, including to rent a chair and umbrella, go for a swim or take a stroll along the promenade. 

Praia Central is also lined with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops, making it a popular destination for tourists.

2. Cable Car to Parque Unipraias

parque unipraias camboriú
Parque Unipraias Camboriú by Derecke Sanches/Flickr

Parque Unipraias is a theme park located on a hill between Praia Central and Laranjeiras beach. 

The park can be accessed by a cable car that offers a breathtaking view of the coastline. 

Once you reach the park, you can enjoy various activities such as zip-lining, trekking, and visiting the wildlife sanctuary. The park also has restaurants and cafes where you can relax and enjoy the view.

Parque Unipraias is definitely one of the places that make Balneário Camboriú such a pleasant and attractive place to live or spend your vacation.

3. Cristo Luz Monument

cristo luz monument
Cristo Luz Monument by Prefeitura Balneário/Flickr

The Cristo Luz monument is a symbol of faith and hope in Balneário Camboriú. 

The iconic monument stands at a height of 33 metres and weighs 528 tons. It offers a stunning view of the city and the ocean. 

The monument is illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. You can visit the giant sculpture by taking a cable car or by walking up the hill. 

The Cristo Luz sculpture was inaugurated on September 6, 1997. It was constructed over a period of two years, from 1995 to 1997, under the direction of Brazilian architect André Constantini and sculptor Genésio Gomes Moura. 

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4. Experience the Nightlife in Avenida Atlantica

confete show
Confete Show by ktphotography/Pixabay

Avenida Atlantica is the main avenue of Balneário Camboriú, known for its lively nightlife. 

The avenue is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants that offer a wide variety of food and drinks. You can enjoy live music, dance, and socialise with the locals and tourists alike.

The nightlife in Balneário Camboriú is typically more vibrant during the summer months of the year (between December and February) when the city is bustling with tourists. 

However, if you are planning to travel during the winter months, there are still plenty of options for entertainment and nightlife, particularly on weekends.

5. Discover the Marine Life at Oceanic Aquarium

whale shark - oceanic aquarium
Whale Shark – Oceanic Aquarium by Domingo Trejo/Pixabay

The Oceanic Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Brazil, home to over 300 species of marine animals, including sharks, turtles, stingrays, and a variety of fish. 

The aquarium has various exhibits such as the shark tunnel, touch tank, and penguin enclosure. 

You can also attend educational talks and workshops and learn about the importance of marine conservation. 

The Oceanic Aquarium is open year-round, and it offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors of all ages. 

It is a popular destination for families with children, as well as for tourists who are interested in learning more about marine life and ecosystems.

6. Day Trip to Some of the Nearby Beaches

praia de laranjeiras
Praia de Laranjeiras by Otávio Nogueira/Flickr

Santa Catarina is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil and many of them are in the area of Balneario Camboriu. 

The city itself offers 7 km of soft golden sand, but there are several very beautiful beaches north and south of the city as well. 

Some of the popular nearby beaches are Praia Brava to the north and Praia do Estaleirinho, and Praia do Estaleiro to the south. You can take a day trip and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.

7. Parque Ecológico Raimundo Gonçalez Malta

cable railway
Cable railway by Héctor de Pereda/Flickr

Parque Ecológico Raimundo Gonçalez Malta is a beautiful park located on a hilltop, offering a panoramic view of Balneario Camboriu. On its territory of 250 000 sq.m, you can find plenty of things to do. 

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The park has various trails for hiking and cycling, and you can enjoy the lush greenery and natural beauty of the region. 

The park is also home to several species of birds and wildlife, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

8. Enjoy the Panoramic View from Molhe da Barra Sul

molhe da barra sul
Molhe da Barra Sul by bairrosfelipe/Flickr

Molhe da Barra Sul is a must-visit destination in Balneário Camboriú, Brazil. 

Located at the mouth of the Camboriú River, it offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. 

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the pier, enjoying the cool sea breeze and watching the waves crash against the rocks. 

The Molhe also serves as a popular spot for fishing and photography, making it a great place to capture memories. 

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-packed getaway, Molhe da Barra Sul has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this beautiful place while exploring Balneário Camboriú.

9. Go Surfing in Praia Buraco

Praia Buraco is a popular beach in Balneário Camboriú. It is well-known for its clear water, beautiful scenery, and good waves, which makes it a popular spot for surfers.

The waves at Praia Buraco are usually rather small to medium in size, but can sometimes get bigger during certain weather conditions. 

The best time to surf at this beach is during the winter months (June to September), when the waves are usually more consistent and the wind is offshore.

Praia Buraco is a good spot for surfing, especially for beginners and intermediate surfers. 

However, it’s always important to check the local surf conditions and consult with a local surf shop or instructor before heading out into the water.

10. Try a Traditional Brazilian Barbeque 

grilled meat
Grilled meat by Paul Hermann/Unsplash

Traditional Brazilian barbecue, also known as churrasco, is a must-try for any food lover. 

It’s a unique style of barbecue that involves slow-cooking various cuts of meat over an open flame, typically using skewers. The result is juicy, tender, and delicious meat that’s full of flavour.

What sets Brazilian barbecue apart is the use of chimichurri, a sauce made of parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, to add an extra layer of flavour to the meat. It’s a popular dish in Brazil, and many restaurants and food trucks specialise in it.

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If you’re looking to try something new and flavorful, Brazilian barbecue is definitely worth a taste. 

Its combination of slow-cooked meat and zesty chimichurri is a unique and delicious experience that will leave you wanting more.

Balneário Camboriú: What You Need to Know Before You Go 

Balneario Camboriu is a hidden gem of Brazil, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban lifestyle. 

From the stunning beaches to the lush green hills, the city has something to offer to everyone. 

By following this list of the top 10 things to do in Balneario Camboriu, you can make your trip unforgettable and create memories that will last a lifetime. But what do you need to know before you visit it?

Is Balneário Camboriú Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Balneário Camboriú is generally safe for tourists. However, it is recommended to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

What is the Best Time to Visit Balneario Camboriu?

The best time to visit Balneário Camboriú is during the summer months from December to March when the weather is warm and sunny. 

Is There a Real Winter in Balneário Camboriú?

In Balneário Camboriú there is no real winter as you can expect in Europe, Canada or the USA.  

During the winter months of June to August, temperatures are cooler, ranging from 13°C at night to 20 – 21°C during the day (55°F to 68°F), although some days bring winter temperatures of around 25°C. 

While this is considered mild compared to other regions with harsher winters and some people even visit the beach in winter, it is still important to bring warm clothing during this time. 

Can I Rent a Car in Balneário Camboriú?

Yes, you can rent a car in  Balneário Camboriú from various car rental companies. In fact, this is considered the most convenient way to travel. 

Are There Any Water Sports to Practise in Balneário Camboriú?

Yes,  Balneário Camboriú is known for its excellent facilities for water sports such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking.

What is the Currency used in Balneário Camboriú?

The currency used in Brazil, including Balneário Camboriú, is the Brazilian Real (BRL).