Joaquina Beach (Praia da Joaquina) is an ocean beach on the east side of Santa Catarina Island, in Florianópolis, Brazil. About 3 km of pale sand is backed by tall dunes and green hills. It is known for its surf, and the beach has hosted national and international championships. Behind the sand, the dunes are used for sandboarding. Kiosks, shops and restaurants stand close by, with showers just outside the beach. Rocks at the left end are worth a look, though footing there needs care.
Where the beach is and how to reach it
Joaquina lies on the east coast of Santa Catarina Island, facing open ocean. The usual route runs through Lagoa da Conceição, and traffic in that area is often heavy, so an early start saves time. Locals call the beach Joaca. The name is fairly recent, as it first appears on maps from 1975.
The sand stretches for roughly 3 km. Green hills rise behind it, and the dunes sit directly across from the beach. Praia Mole, Galheta and Barra da Lagoa are nearby if you want to see more of the eastern coast. Galheta can only be reached on foot by a trail.
The wave and the surf scene
Joaquina is one of the best-known surf beaches in Brazil. The wave is a left-hand break over a sand bottom, formed by shifting sandbars off a rocky headland. On its best days it holds a large swell and can run long and hollow. The north end of the beach has several spots that work in most swell directions and tides.
The beach has been a stop on the world championship surf tour and hosts national and international contests. March to May is named as the time to test the wave. Surf schools in the area give lessons for beginners, and rental shops are nearby. If you do not surf, watching from the sand is a common way to spend an hour.
The beach is popular, especially in spring and summer, so the main stretch can be busy. Walking further along the sand usually leads to less crowded peaks.
Dunes and sandboarding
The Dunas da Joaca run from the south shore of Lagoa da Conceição to the beach. The dunes facing the sea are free to enter, and cars can be left along the nearby road. A separate set of dunes lies across from the lagoon.
Sandboarding is the main activity here. At weekends and on holidays, boards can be hired on the dunes themselves. Standing on the board takes practice, and beginners can lie on it and slide down instead. Climbing to the top is also worthwhile without a board, since it gives a clear view of the whole beach.
At the left end of the beach, a rocky area is worth a short visit. The rocks are uneven and the waves reach them, so go slowly.
Facilities near the sand
Joaquina is among the island's best-equipped beaches. Kiosks sell snacks and cold drinks, and gift shops and restaurants stand close by, enough for a long day without leaving the area. Showers just outside the beach are kept clean.
The water is clear, but the waves can be strong, and the beach is not the first choice for young children. A calmer swimming area lies at one end. Parking is available on the street and in a paid car park nearby.
FAQ
Where is Joaquina Beach?
It is on the east side of Santa Catarina Island, in Florianópolis, Brazil. The usual road to it passes through Lagoa da Conceição.
Is Joaquina Beach good for surfing?
Yes. The left-hand wave off a rocky headland suits all levels, and surf schools offer lessons for beginners. March to May is named as a good time for the wave.
Can you sandboard at Joaquina?
Yes. The dunes across from the beach are used for sandboarding, and boards can be hired there at weekends and on holidays. Beginners can lie on the board and slide down.
Is there parking at Joaquina Beach?
Yes. You can park along the road near the dunes and the beach. A paid car park nearby has charged 50 reais a day and stays open until 19:00.
Is Joaquina Beach good for children?
The waves are strong and the beach is busy, so it is not ideal for small children. A calmer swimming area lies at one end.
