Destination Guide • Imbituba, Santa Catarina

Barra de Ibiraquera

The complete guide by those who live here: beach, lagoon, right whales, wind sports, and the most authentic coastal village in southern Santa Catarina.

About the destination

Between the open sea and the lagoon

Barra de Ibiraquera is a district of Imbituba, on the southern coast of Santa Catarina, where a lagoon with calm and shallow waters meets the Atlantic Ocean. This rare geography —lagoon and sea separated by a wide strip of sand— creates the ideal setting for both family tourism and athletes. On one side, the Ibiraquera Lagoon offers warm, shallow waters, perfect and safe for toddlers and young children; on the other, the open sea features consistent waves for surfing and bodyboarding, while remaining safe for swimmers. This unique combination attracts kitesurfing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) enthusiasts, establishing the region as one of the most complete and authentic beach destinations in Brazil, perfect for family vacations or adventure ecotourism.

The region is part of the Right Whale Route (Rota da Baleia Franca), one of the few places in Brazil where it is possible to observe southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) from the shore between July and November, when the animals migrate from Antarctica to breed in the warmer waters of Santa Catarina.

No high-rise buildings, no large hotel chains: Barra preserves its fisherman village rhythm, with family-run guesthouses, trails between dunes, and preserved beaches — a destination tailored for those seeking nature, sports, and tranquility, not nightlife.

Barra de Ibiraquera in numbers

2 destinations in one: lagoon and beach
Jul–Nov southern right whale season
Year-round wind for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and Wing Foil in the lagoon
~20 min from Praia do Rosa and Garopaba
Dec-Mar Beach and sun season
~95 km Florianópolis International Airport
Location

Where is Barra de Ibiraquera located

Barra de Ibiraquera is located in the northern region of Imbituba, on the southern coast of Santa Catarina (SC). Strategically situated about 80 km south of Florianópolis, it is easily accessible via the BR-101 highway. This destination is just a few minutes away from the famous Praia do Rosa and neighboring Garopaba, making it easy to travel around some of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Santa Catarina’s Lake Region.

Where to stay

Stay at Namoanauê

Fully equipped triplexes just steps from the beach and the lagoon, featuring a swimming pool, barbecue area, and hosts who live the Barra de Ibiraquera lifestyle every day.

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Barra de Ibiraquera located?

Barra de Ibiraquera is a district located in the northern region of the municipality of Imbituba, on the southern coast of Santa Catarina, Brazil. This travel destination is situated about 80 km south of Florianópolis, bordering Garopaba and the famous Praia do Rosa.

How to get to Barra de Ibiraquera?

By car, for those coming from the north heading south, the main access is via the BR-101 highway. Take the exit to Barra de Ibiraquera right after the exits for Garopaba and Praia do Rosa, following the local paved roads. For those coming from the south heading north, there are two options: the first is to enter through the north access of Imbituba and head towards Praia da Ribanceira; the second is to continue on the BR-101 until the Barra de Ibiraquera exit (next to the Simons gas station). For those arriving by plane, the closest airport is Florianópolis International Airport (FLN), located approximately 1 hour away from the destination.

When is the best time to visit Barra de Ibiraquera?

For beach tourism, lagoon swimming, and warm weather, the best time is from December to March (summer). For right whale watching and ecotourism, the ideal season runs from July to November (winter and spring). For kitesurfing and windsurfing, the wind conditions are favorable almost year-round, peaking in spring.

Is Barra de Ibiraquera good for families and kids?

Yes, it is one of the best destinations in Santa Catarina for families. The Ibiraquera Lagoon offers calm, shallow, and warm waters, perfect for toddlers and young children to play safely. The coastal village is residential and peaceful, free from loud nightlife, offering family-friendly lodges, vacation rentals, and direct contact with nature.