Things To Do
in Tubarão
Tubarão is a mid-sized city in Santa Catarina set along the Tubarão River in the Itajaí Valley. It blends industrial heritage with green spaces, parks, and a growing cultural scene. The historic center features colorful façades and a riverside ambience that easily anchors day trips to nearby coast and mountains.
As a regional hub, Tubarão offers markets, eateries, and access to both inland nature and Atlantic beaches within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by strolling through Tubarão's historic center, where charming colonial architecture narrates the story of the city. Visit the Igreja Matriz de São João Batista, a beautiful church that is a centerpiece of the town, and admire its ornate interior. Don’t forget to indulge in a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pão de queijo and strong coffee.
After lunch, explore the vibrant streets lined with local shops and artisan boutiques, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the culture by visiting the Museu Histórico de Tubarão, where you can learn about the city’s rich history through various exhibits. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of the Tubarão River, taking in the serene views and perhaps spotting some local wildlife.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in the historic center to enjoy a traditional Brazilian meal, featuring local specialties like feijoada. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Cap off the night with a drink at a local bar, chatting with friendly locals and sampling regional cachaça.
Kick off your day with a trip to Praia do Sol, one of the most popular beaches near Tubarão. Spend the morning relaxing on the soft sands and enjoying the warm sun while sipping on coconut water. For those feeling adventurous, try out some early morning beach volleyball or a refreshing swim in the clear waters.
After lunch at a beachside restaurant, engage in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding. Explore the coastline by taking a scenic boat tour, where you can admire the stunning cliffs and hidden coves. Don’t miss the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters to discover the vibrant underwater life.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset picnic on the beach, basking in the golden hues of the sunset. Sample fresh seafood at one of the local eateries while listening to the gentle waves. Conclude your beach day with a bonfire, sharing stories and laughter under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚍Local transit ticket | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong regional culture and warm hospitality
- Good base for exploring Serra do Rio do Rastro and nearby beaches
- Affordability relative to major cities in the region
- Pleasant riverside scenery and accessible hikes
- Limited large-scale nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller number of high-end dining options
- Public transport options can be infrequent outside the city center
- Weather can be humid and unpredictable in summer
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o(s) ...?" - Where is the ...?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Tubarão
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise light over colonial façades and the Tubarão River promenade.
Wide views of the water, boats, and sunset reflections along the river.
Historic streets with colorful façades, ideal for street photography and architecture shots.
Iconic church with a striking façade and scenic surroundings for architectural photos.
Food in Tubarão
Tubarão Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic fish stew featuring white fish, potatoes, peppers, and herbs, commonly served in coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Seafood rice with shrimp and mussels cooked with garlic, saffron, and herbs.
A traditional cake from the region, available in sweet and savory varieties, often enjoyed with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and regional snacks.
Weekend street market with fruits, pastries, grilled corn, and local treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a cheek kiss among friends; use senhor/senhora in formal situations.
Polite conversation is valued; avoid loud behavior in quiet spaces; learning a few Portuguese pleasantries goes a long way.
Respect personal space; tipping is customary; modest attire is appropriate in most churches and traditional venues.
Safety
Tipping in Tubarão
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is commonly 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up in casual places is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and small vendors; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan beach or riverside outings for early morning or late afternoon.
Milder temperatures and clearer days; ideal for city strolls, parks, and hill viewpoints.
Cooler evenings with occasional rain; great for café-hopping and indoor cultural activities.
Lush landscapes and blooming trees; great for outdoor markets, walks, and photography.
Tubarão at Night
Hiking in Tubarão
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and multiple waterfalls within a short drive; popular for day hikes and picnic spots.
Gentle ridge walks with panoramic valley views, accessible from surrounding towns.
Airports
How to reach Tubarão by plane.
Regional airport serving the southern part of Santa Catarina; convenient for domestic flights and short trips to nearby towns.
Major international airport about 150-180 km from Tubarão; broad flight options and connections.
Airport near Itajaí/Itapema region; good for regional flights and access to the northern coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of generations with a strong sense of community and steady urban growth.
A growing segment drawn to regional universities and employment in commerce and industry.
Influences from Portuguese, Italian, and German heritage visible in culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and pitches throughout the city.
Common in schools and community centers; local teams and pick-up games available.
Popular near coastal towns along the region; casual games and tournaments occur in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tubarão.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Tubarão, vegetarian options exist in most restaurants; look for salads, feijão, rice dishes, or pasta. Ask for legumes or mushroom-based dishes; consider visiting markets for fresh vegetables.