Category: Living in BC

Balneário Camboriú is not the only place worth a look in Santa Catarina. The island capital Florianópolis, the surf town of Garopaba, and mountain villages like Urubici and Águas Mornas deserve attention too.

Why Santa Catarina?

Santa Catarina is known for a high quality of life, good schools and public services. It is one of the safer states in Brazil.

Florianópolis, the state capital, is often praised for its quality of life. It combines city life with dozens of beaches. It also has a growing tech scene.

The state’s economy is varied: technology, tourism, farming, industry and services.

The culture has strong German and Italian roots, with festivals and traditions throughout the year.

The climate is subtropical, with mild winters and warm summers. Good for surfing, hiking and beach life. Beaches, mountains and islands are never far apart.

How about the surf town of Garopaba?

Garopaba is a coastal town on Santa Catarina’s south coast. It is surrounded by beaches and Atlantic forest.

It draws surfers, nature lovers and remote workers with its relaxed feel. Beaches like Praia do Rosa, Ferrugem and Silveira are known for surfing and kitesurfing. In season, you can watch whales from the coast.

It is a calm town, well suited to families and remote workers. Florianópolis and its international airport are within driving distance.

The feel is relaxed and welcoming: yoga retreats, craft markets and a strong interest in nature.

How about a mountain village?

Urubici and Águas Mornas are in the hills, away from the coast. We will write more about them soon.

Balneário Camboriú has a lot to offer.

There are many beaches, all different, with yachts and marinas along the coast. There are hundreds of restaurants with fresh food and cocktails, good shops for fashion and interior design, and a lively nightlife.

Away from the beach, children have plenty to do: the cable car, karting, water parks, surfing. You can hike up the hills to viewpoints and waterfalls.

It is no surprise that the city attracts well-known Brazilians and visitors from many countries. Sports cars cruise the beachfront as if this were South Beach.

Locals call it the Dubai of Brazil. We would rather compare it to Miami, with a gentler feel.

We will add the restaurants, shops and places we like over time.

Balneário Camboriú is a coastal city in Santa Catarina, in the south of Brazil. People often call it “Brazil’s Dubai”. It is known for its tall oceanfront towers, clean beaches and a good quality of life.

Are you thinking about moving here? This guide explains what daily life is really like. Some things that seem obvious to Brazilians can surprise newcomers. Think of the summer crowds, or how much you need Portuguese.

The pros

Beaches and outdoor life

The coast is the main draw. Praia Central is urban and lively, lined with towers. Quieter, more natural beaches are a short drive or bus ride away, along the Interpraias road or north at Praia dos Amores.

Summers are warm, good for swimming, surfing and paddleboarding. Winters are mild, though it can be windy and rainy. A bike path runs along the beach, and there are forest trails in the hills.

Safety and cleanliness

Santa Catarina is known as one of the safer states in Brazil. In BC you see police on the street, cleaning crews and well-kept public spaces. Many newcomers say it feels very secure compared with the large cities.

Modern services

The city has modern towers, good shopping, restaurants and nightlife. The centre is walkable, along Avenida Atlântica and Avenida Brasil. There are hospitals, pharmacies and supermarkets. Good internet and co-working spaces are easy to find.

Getting around the region

Navegantes airport is close by, with flights to São Paulo and other hubs. Florianópolis, with its international airport, is further south. Weekend trips are easy.

The cons

Summer crowds

From December to February, the city fills up with visitors. Beaches get packed, traffic is heavy and prices go up. If you prefer quiet, avoid New Year and Carnival. The towers also shade parts of Praia Central in the afternoon.

Language

Portuguese matters. Some restaurants and younger people speak English. For doctors, landlords or paperwork, you need at least some Portuguese. The English-speaking community is small, so you will need to make an effort to fit in.

Prices in the best areas

Beachfront homes are expensive by Brazilian standards, and central rents are high. If you earn in Brazilian reais, BC can feel pricey compared with other cities.

Traffic and density

Tall buildings mean a dense city and traffic jams at rush hour and in season. There is public transport, but many people use a car, ride-hailing apps, or walk in the centre.

Other practical notes

• Visas, residency and buying property can mean slow paperwork. Many newcomers work with a lawyer.
• Winters are mild, but wind and rain can make them feel chilly.
• The city is built around tourism. It can feel more polished and commercial than smaller towns.

In short

Balneário Camboriú offers a safe, modern and beautiful beach life. It is not for everyone. You may not like it if you dislike crowds, want a large English-speaking community, or prefer rustic charm to towers.

Thinking about a visit? Try April to June or September to November, when the city is calmer.