Just minutes after landing, Navegantes offers clean beaches, a boardwalk across protected dunes, and free flight at Morro da Pedra with sweeping coastal views.
Travelers arriving at Navegantes International Airport can step straight into nature and seaside downtime without long transfers. Set on Santa Catarina’s North Coast, Navegantes blends beaches, preserved coastal ecosystems and outdoor sports—ideal for an easy start to a summer trip.
The airport operates daily flights to São Paulo (Guarulhos, Congonhas and Viracopos) and Rio de Janeiro (Galeão). That network makes the terminal a practical gateway to experiences that begin almost immediately after touchdown.
Navegantes beaches, easy and close
Navegantes has roughly 11 kilometers of shoreline across Praia Central, Meia Praia, Praia do Pontal and Gravatá. The beaches are known for clean water suitable for swimming, plus room for sports and fishing, with an urban setup that makes access simple for visitors.
A key highlight is the preserved coastal “restinga,” classified as a Permanent Preservation Area (APA). Along the waterfront, a wooden elevated boardwalk, sand access walkways, lookout points, bike paths and parking areas create a welcoming route for walks by the sea.
Surf and outdoor sports year-round
Surf culture is part of daily life here. Throughout the year, local and regional surfers take advantage of the coastline’s natural conditions, reinforcing Navegantes as a go-to spot for getting in the water with minimal hassle.
Morro da Pedra: hikes and a panoramic viewpoint
For a deeper nature escape, Morro da Pedra in the Escalvados neighborhood (rural area) stands out. At over 300 meters high, it delivers wide-open views toward Itajaí, Penha, Balneário Piçarras, Barra Velha and Navegantes itself.
The site is also known for free flight, hang gliding and paragliding, with ramps and suitable areas for takeoff. Visitors can reach the top via trails through Atlantic Forest, by bike or by car, and the best experience depends on favorable weather conditions.
Nearby Penha: Blue Flag beaches and sea turtles
If you want to expand the itinerary without going far, neighboring Penha is an easy add-on. The city has about 31 kilometers of coastline and multiple beaches, including three recognized by the Blue Flag program for environmental quality and visitor infrastructure.
One highlight is Praia do Cascalho, home to a Projeto Tamar research base and part of the so-called “Turtle Route.” It is among the few spots in the region where sea turtles can be observed, and it’s also famous for sunset views and calm water—good for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Seafood traditions on the menu
The region’s fishing heritage shows up in local flavors. From events like Festa do Marisco to specialized restaurants, Navegantes and Penha highlight seafood dishes that let visitors taste coastal culture all year long.
An airport that doubles as a starting point
With quick access to Navegantes and nearby towns, Navegantes International Airport strengthens its role as a gateway to beaches, trails and open-air activities on Santa Catarina’s North Coast. More than an arrival point, it helps turn the first hours of a trip into part of the experience.
About Navegantes Airport
Founded in 1970, Navegantes International Airport is the main air access to Santa Catarina’s North Coast, home to destinations such as Balneário Camboriú and the Beto Carrero World theme park. The airport plays a key role for tourism and business in southern Brazil and has been operated by Motiva since March 2022.
About Motiva
Motiva is Brazil’s largest mobility infrastructure company, operating across highways, rail and airports. It manages 39 assets in 13 states and employs more than 16,000 people. The company oversees 4,475 kilometers of highways and handles about 3,600 service assists daily. In rail, through metro, train and light rail operations, it carries 750 million passengers annually. In airports, with 17 units in Brazil and three abroad, it serves around 45 million customers each year. Motiva is part of Brazil’s Novo Mercado and has been listed for 14 years in B3’s sustainability hall. Press contact: imprensa.nvt@motiva.com.br
Foto: Jaine Pereira
