beach · Palhoça, SC
Praia da Pinheira
Divided into Praia de Baixo and Praia de Cima, it has clean, calm water, sheltered from the south wind. The longer stretch, about 7 km, keeps the feel of a fishing village of Azorean tradition, and trails to the south lead to natural pools among the rocks.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Praia da Pinheira
Praia da Pinheira is in Palhoça, on the southern coast of Greater Florianópolis, in Santa Catarina. It fills a wide shell-shaped cove, with broad sand and calm water, good for swimming and water sports.
The cove has two stretches. Praia de Baixo is the larger and busier part, with bars, restaurants, markets and pousadas. Separated from it by a small rocky point is Praia de Cima, shorter and better preserved, with even calmer water and native vegetation around it.
A short path over the rocks and lawn links the two beaches. From the end of Praia de Cima, the trail leaves for Praia do Maço, in Vale da Utopia, a short walk with a gentle climb that can be done without a guide and is popular with families.
The wide strip of sand and the small waves make Pinheira a favorite with families with children and with those who want to escape the crowds of Florianópolis's beaches. At Praia de Cima you'll often see kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A full day, combining a swim and the trail to Praia do Maço.
Best time
In summer, between December and March, when the water is warmest; mornings on windless days are best for swimming and hiking.
How to get there
Pinheira is in southern Palhoça, south of Florianópolis. By car, take the BR-101 south and the exit for Pinheira; there's parking on the streets near the beach, which fill up in high season.
Tip
For the Praia do Maço trail, park at the end of Praia de Cima and bring water and closed-toe shoes.
A look at the place
Praia da Pinheira 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 da Pinheira
Is Praia da Pinheira good for children?
Yes. The sea is calm, with small waves, and the strip of sand is wide, which makes Pinheira popular with families.
What's the difference between Praia de Baixo and Praia de Cima?
Praia de Baixo is the larger stretch, with bars, restaurants and pousadas. Praia de Cima, separated by a rocky point, is shorter, better preserved and quieter.
How do I hike to Praia do Maço from Pinheira?
The trail starts at the end of Praia de Cima. It's short, with a gentle climb, can be done without a guide and leads to Praia do Maço, in Vale da Utopia.
Can I do a day trip from Florianópolis to Pinheira?
Yes. Pinheira is in Palhoça, south of Florianópolis, reached via the BR-101.
Does Praia da Pinheira have facilities?
Yes. Praia de Baixo has bars, restaurants, markets and lodging; Praia de Cima has fewer shops and more nature.