beach · Balneário Camboriú, SC
Praia Central
At about 5.8 km, it is the strip of sand in front of the waterfront skyscrapers. In 2021 it received 2.2 million cubic meters of sand, and its average width went from 25 to about 70 meters, to bring back sunlight to the beach.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Praia Central
The Praia Central (central beach) is the signature sight of Balneário Camboriú. The strip of sand runs almost the full length of the city, from Barra Sul, by the hill with the cable car, to Barra Norte, against a backdrop of the continuous line of skyscrapers that made the city famous.
Because it sits in a cove, the sea is usually calm, without strong waves. Offshore is the small Ilha das Cabras (island), and from either end you see the whole curve of the waterfront, with the buildings on one side and the green hills on the other.
Along the sand runs Avenida Atlântica, the city's main avenue, with a promenade and bike path from end to end. It is the place to walk, cycle and people-watch, day and night, with kiosks, showers and chair and umbrella rentals.
Barra Sul is where you board the Parque Unipraias cable car and the boat trips on the Rio Camboriú. It is an urban beach, flat and easy to get around, good if you want full facilities and everything within walking distance.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A morning or an afternoon is enough to enjoy the beach; walking the whole promenade from end to end takes a few hours with stops.
Best time
In summer, for the beach and the sea; outside the season, the waterfront is quieter for walking and cycling. Late afternoon is good for a stroll on the promenade, and morning for emptier sand.
How to get there
The beach is right in downtown Balneário Camboriú, along Avenida Atlântica. If you are staying in the city, you can walk there. By car, the city is reached via the BR-101.
Tip
Rent a bike and ride the Avenida Atlântica bike path from Barra Sul to Barra Norte: it is flat and shows the whole waterfront at an easy pace.
A look at the place
Praia Central in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Praia Central
Does Praia Central in Balneário Camboriú have waves?
The sea is usually calm, because the beach sits in a cove. Even so, follow the flags and the lifeguards.
Do you have to pay to use the beach?
No. The beach is public and free. You only pay for chairs, umbrellas and food and drinks, if you want them.
Can you walk or bike along the waterfront?
Yes. Avenida Atlântica has a promenade and a bike path along the entire beach, from Barra Sul to Barra Norte.
What is there at Barra Sul?
It is the southern end of the beach, where you board the Parque Unipraias cable car and where boat tours on the Rio Camboriú depart.
What is that island in front of the beach?
It is Ilha das Cabras, a small island you can see from the Praia Central waterfront.