beach · Penha, SC
Praia Vermelha
Surrounded by Atlantic Forest and rock formations, it is reached by a dirt road of about 2 km and has no shops. Visited mainly by locals and fishermen, it has a rough sea and a laid-back feel.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Praia Vermelha
Praia Vermelha (beach) is one of the wildest beaches in Penha, on the north coast of Santa Catarina. It is away from downtown, surrounded by tall hills covered in Atlantic Forest and by rocky shores.
The name comes from its reddish sand. The beach is wide and there are almost no buildings nearby, just a small group of vacation homes. The atmosphere is laid-back, very different from the town's urban beaches.
The sea usually has strong waves, which attract surfers but call for care when swimming. On the rocky shores, you can walk among the rocks and explore trails that link the beach to the viewpoint and other corners of the area. From Mirante da Praia Vermelha (viewpoint), the view reaches the coast of Itapema and Porto Belo.
It is an outing for people who love nature and don't mind limited facilities. Bring what you need, because shops on the sand are not guaranteed.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half a day is enough to enjoy the beach; set aside the whole day if you want to add the viewpoint and the trails.
Best time
In summer, on sunny days with a calmer sea, in the morning; for photos from the viewpoint, late afternoon gives softer light over the coast.
How to get there
It is in Penha (SC), away from downtown. Access is by dirt road; the last stretch calls for care on rainy days.
Tip
Bring water, snacks and sunscreen, and check the sea before going in: the waves are usually strong.
A look at the place
Praia Vermelha 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 Vermelha
How do you get to Praia Vermelha in Penha?
Access is by dirt road from downtown Penha. On rainy days, the dirt stretch calls for care.
Is Praia Vermelha in Penha good for swimming?
The sea usually has strong waves, more suited to surfers. Only go in on calm days, and with care.
Does Praia Vermelha have facilities?
Very few. There is only a small group of vacation homes; bring water and snacks.
Why is it called Praia Vermelha?
Because of its reddish sand.
What is there to do near Praia Vermelha?
Walk along the rocky shores, hike the trails in the area and go up to Mirante da Praia Vermelha (viewpoint), which looks out over the coast of Itapema and Porto Belo.