Praia da Joaquina

Santa Catarina


Joaquina Beach, backed by massive dunes, has 3km of sun-toasted sand and several restaurants serving food on the beach. On the beach's northeast end is a series of rocks that's popular for photo shoots.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Santa Catarina attractions

1. Praia Mole

2.22 MILES

This is one of the East Island's best and most secluded beaches. It's hidden from SC-406 and accessed by a small trail. The northern end is very popular…

2. Praia do Campeche

2.59 MILES

The 3.5km Praia do Campeche is one of Floripa's five-star beaches, an absolute stunner of sun-kissed perfection with wind conditions lending themselves to…

3. Mirante da Lagoa da Conceição

2.8 MILES

The postcard view of Lagoa da Conceição awaits at this must-stop lookout, which frames both sides of the lagoon, the dunes of Joaquina and beyond.

4. Projeto TAMAR

4.23 MILES

Kids get a kick out of Brazil's non-profit sea turtle conservation organization, which features five tanks. Feedings (3:30pm) and baths (weekend mornings)…

5. Catedral Metropolitana

6.52 MILES

You’ll hear the hourly ringing of bells in the Catedral Metropolitana, which sits grandly at the high end of the square and is the only church we've ever…

6. Praça XV de Novembro

6.52 MILES

The center of town is the inviting Praça XV de Novembro, with its shady walks and 100-year-old fig tree.

7. Igreja de NS do Rosário

6.57 MILES

The best-preserved colonial church, Igreja de NS do Rosário, sits picturesquely atop the steps at Rua Trajano.

8. Museu Histórico de Santa Catarina

6.58 MILES

Formerly the colonial governor’s palace, this gorgeous must-see building has ornate parquet floors and extravagant 19th-century ceilings.