Joaquina Beach: Surfing, Dunes, and Natural Beauty
Experience world-class surfing, thrilling sandboarding, and breathtaking scenery at Joaquina Beach, Florianópolis' iconic coastal paradise.
Joaquina Beach, located on the eastern coast of Santa Catarina Island, is one of Brazil's most famous beaches. Known locally as "Joaca," it's a 3.5-kilometer stretch of shoreline that attracts surfers with its strong waves and sandboarders with its impressive dunes. The beach's history is intertwined with surfing culture, gaining prominence in the 1970s when its waves were discovered by surfers. Since then, it has hosted numerous national and international surfing championships, solidifying its reputation as a surfing mecca. The name "Joaquina" is said to come from a lacemaker who tragically drowned at sea. Beyond surfing, Joaquina's dunes are a major attraction, considered some of the best in southern Brazil. Visitors can rent sandboards and surf down the dunes, enjoying panoramic ocean views from the top. The beach also offers a vibrant atmosphere with restaurants, bars, and shops. Floodlights allow for nighttime sports like volleyball and soccer. While the strong currents make swimming challenging, the beach is perfect for long walks and enjoying the scenery.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season.
- Rent a sandboard and experience the thrill of surfing down the famous dunes.
- Witness the sunrise over the ocean for a memorable experience.
- Check out local surf shops for board rentals and lessons.
- Enjoy the lively beach atmosphere with beachfront bars and restaurants.
A brief summary to Joaquina Beach
- State of Santa Catarina, BR
Getting There
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Bus
From Florianópolis city center or Lagoa da Conceição, take a local bus towards Joaquina Beach. Several bus lines serve the area. Check the latest schedules and routes with the local transit authority. A single bus fare costs approximately 4.50 BRL.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Florianópolis. A taxi or ride-share from the city center to Joaquina Beach typically costs between 30-50 BRL, depending on traffic and time of day.
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Car
If driving, follow the signs for Joaquina Beach from Florianópolis or Lagoa da Conceição. Metered parking is available near the beach entrance, with rates varying depending on the season and demand. Expect to pay around 5-10 BRL per hour or 20-30 BRL for the day.
