Before you go
Your trip to Palhoça.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Palhoça – SC Destination Florianópolis and Santa Catarina Island about 19 km from Florianópolis
How to get there
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Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis (FLN) Florianópolis · 25 km
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Terminal Rodoviário de Palhoça
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Terminal Rodoviário Rita Maria Florianópolis
Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.
Downtown Palhoça is 19 km from downtown Florianópolis, on the BR-101. The beaches are farther south: Guarda do Embaú is about 50 km from Florianópolis, an hour by car. There are metropolitan buses and lines to Guarda from Florianópolis. The nearest airport is Florianópolis.
How many days
Two days: one for Guarda do Embaú and Pinheira, another for the Cambirela trail, in the Serra do Tabuleiro, which takes the whole day. If you're not hiking, one day is enough.
When to go
December to March for beaches. From May to July surfing is banned at Guarda do Embaú, during mullet season. From July to November, southern right whales can be seen around Guarda. For Cambirela, the drier, cooler months, from April to September, are best.
Do you need a car?
Yes, in practice. Guarda, Pinheira, Enseada de Brito and the start of the Cambirela trail are spread along the BR-101. There are buses to Guarda, but to see more than one place in a day you'll want a car.
Suggested itinerary
An order that works
Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.
One day in Palhoça
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Morning
Enseada de Brito and Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário
The village founded in 1750, on the way south. The church is one of the three oldest parishes in the state.
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Afternoon
Guarda do Embaú
Cross the Rio da Madre in the locals' canoe. The current is strong: swimming across is risky if you're not experienced.
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Late afternoon
Praia da Pinheira
On the way back, the calm-water beach, sheltered from the south wind.
2 days in Palhoça
Day 1
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Morning
Guarda do Embaú
Arrive early for the river crossing and a less crowded beach.
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Afternoon
Praia da Pinheira
Calm water and trails along the rocky shore to natural pools among the rocks.
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Late afternoon
Enseada de Brito and Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário
The historic village, on the way back north.
Day 2
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Morning
Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro
The Morro do Cambirela trail takes the whole day: it's about eight kilometers round trip, with a steep climb. From the top, on a clear day, the view reaches Santa Catarina Island. Start early and let someone know your route.
Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.
Before you go
Frequently asked questions
How do I cross the river at Guarda do Embaú?
By canoe, with the village boatmen; on foot, at low tide; or by swimming. The current is strong, and if you're not experienced the canoe is the safe option.
Is Guarda do Embaú good for children?
With care. The sea is cold and has waves, and there's the river crossing. For small children, Praia da Pinheira, with calm water, is a better choice.
Is the Cambirela trail hard?
It's one of the hardest in the region: a steep climb and a full day of hiking. A guide isn't required, but don't go up alone without knowing the way, and let someone know beforehand. Dogs are not allowed.
Can I see whales in Palhoça?
From July to November, southern right whales pass along the southern coast of Santa Catarina, and the Guarda do Embaú area is among the sighting spots. There's no guarantee you'll see them.