
Dunas do Acaraí
Vast dunes, diverse restinga, and coastal beauty await at Dunas do Acaraí, a natural conservation area.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene nature

Dunas do Acaraí
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast dunes, diverse restinga, and coastal beauty await at Dunas do Acaraí, a natural conservation area.
"A piece of paradise with unique dune landscapes and rich biodiversity."

Pack Out Your Trash
Leave no trace! Bring bags for all your waste to keep the beaches clean. :recycle:
Stay on Marked Trails
Protect the fragile dune ecosystem and wildlife by sticking to designated paths. :hiking_boot:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Dune Landscapes
Between Praia do Ervino and Praia Grande
Vast sandy expanses meeting the ocean, offering a unique coastal desert feel.

Rich Biodiversity
Parque Estadual do Acaraí
Explore diverse restinga vegetation, home to numerous bird and reptile species.

Coastal and River Scenery
Parque Estadual do Acaraí
Experience the unique blend of seashore, river, and forest environments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Dunas do Acaraí
Respecting the Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Out Your Trash
Leave no trace! Bring bags for all your waste to keep the beaches clean. :recycle:
Stay on Marked Trails
Protect the fragile dune ecosystem and wildlife by sticking to designated paths. :hiking_boot:
Best for Nature Lovers
Ideal for birdwatching and appreciating untouched coastal landscapes. :bird:
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your experience with local insights into the park's ecology. :guide_dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Out Your Trash
Leave no trace! Bring bags for all your waste to keep the beaches clean. :recycle:
Stay on Marked Trails
Protect the fragile dune ecosystem and wildlife by sticking to designated paths. :hiking_boot:
Best for Nature Lovers
Ideal for birdwatching and appreciating untouched coastal landscapes. :bird:
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your experience with local insights into the park's ecology. :guide_dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
While Dunas do Acaraí offers stunning natural beauty with its expansive dunes and diverse ecosystems, some visitors have noted a lack of signage and maintenance, with reports of litter on the beaches. Despite these drawbacks, the unique landscapes and opportunities for nature observation remain a significant draw for many.
"No signs or stations, lots of garbage on the beaches, trails into the dunes that go nowhere. Save your time and go elsewhere"
Todd Wilchek
"ok"
Airton Ferrari
"Top"
Josias Lourenço
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Dunas do Acaraí from Florianópolis, you'll typically drive north on BR-101 towards São Francisco do Sul. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. From São Francisco do Sul, follow signs towards Praia do Ervino or Praia Grande, as the dunes are located between these beaches. Parking is available near the access points to the dunes and beaches.
Public transportation directly to Dunas do Acaraí can be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easier access. You might be able to take a bus to São Francisco do Sul and then arrange local transport or a taxi to the dune areas, but this can be less convenient.
The dunes are accessible from the beaches between Praia do Ervino and Praia Grande. You can park your vehicle near these beaches and walk onto the sand to explore the dune systems. Some visitors arrive with campervans or motorhomes, enjoying the proximity to nature.
The Parque Estadual do Acaraí encompasses the dune areas. While there might not be a single 'entrance' with a gate, access is generally gained via the beaches. Look for signs indicating the park's presence and be mindful of conservation efforts.
Driving on the dunes is generally discouraged and often prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem. It's best to park your vehicle in designated areas and explore the dunes on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there are no explicit mentions of entrance fees or ticket requirements for Dunas do Acaraí. Access to the beaches and dune areas is generally free, as it's part of a conservation unit. However, it's always wise to check for any local regulations or potential changes.
As a natural park and beach area, Dunas do Acaraí does not have set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, but it's advisable to go during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
Information regarding an official visitor center for Dunas do Acaraí is scarce. It's a natural conservation area, so facilities might be minimal. It's recommended to come prepared with your own supplies and information.
While specific restrictions aren't widely publicized, visitors are expected to respect the natural environment. This includes not littering, not disturbing wildlife, and staying on marked trails to preserve the restinga vegetation and dunes.
Camping directly within the dune areas or on the beaches might be restricted to protect the environment. It's best to check with local authorities or São Francisco do Sul tourism for designated camping sites nearby if you plan to stay overnight.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking along the extensive beaches, exploring the unique dune formations, birdwatching, and simply relaxing in nature. The area offers a peaceful escape for those who appreciate natural landscapes.
Yes, there are trails that lead into and through the dunes, offering opportunities for trekking and exploring the restinga vegetation. These trails allow you to experience the diverse ecosystems within the park.
Absolutely! The restinga vegetation and coastal environment make Dunas do Acaraí a prime spot for birdwatching, with various native bird species inhabiting the area.
Besides numerous bird species, the area is known to host various reptiles and other small wildlife that are adapted to the coastal and dune environments. Remember to observe from a distance and not disturb them.
Facilities at Dunas do Acaraí are generally minimal. It's advisable to come prepared with your own food, water, and any necessary amenities. There are no specific mentions of restrooms or picnic areas within the dune zones.
📸 📸 Photography
The expansive sand dunes, the meeting point of the sea and river, and the unique restinga vegetation offer stunning photographic opportunities. The golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, provides dramatic lighting for capturing the landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife and bird photography. Consider bringing a tripod for stable shots during low light conditions. :camerawithflash:
Don't miss capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the dunes, the textures of the sand, and the panoramic views where the river meets the sea. The unique flora also provides interesting subjects.
Yes, it's generally safe to take photos near the water, but always be aware of the tides and incoming waves. Keep your equipment protected from sand and water. :iphone:
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local aviation authorities or park management regarding drone usage in protected areas like Parque Estadual do Acaraí to ensure compliance with any restrictions. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to observe the unique plants and any small creatures they might encounter, fostering an appreciation for nature. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment itself provides endless opportunities for imaginative play and discovery. Ensure children stay close and are supervised, especially near the water.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Beyond birding, the unique dune landscapes and coastal flora offer a rich environment for exploration and photography. The trails provide opportunities for gentle hikes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and observe the delicate balance of this coastal ecosystem.
🚗 Road Trippers & Van Lifers
Enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace. Wake up to the sound of the waves and spend your days exploring the dunes and beaches. Remember to be a responsible traveler by packing out all your trash and respecting the natural environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dune Ecosystems
Visitors can explore these dune systems by walking along designated paths or directly on the sand in permitted areas. The experience offers a sense of remoteness and natural beauty. It's important to tread lightly and respect the fragile ecosystem. The diverse restinga flora provides habitat and food for various animal species, making it a rich area for observing nature.
Remember that the dunes are a sensitive environment. Avoid disturbing the vegetation, and be mindful of your impact. The visual appeal of the dunes, especially during sunrise and sunset, makes them a photographer's delight.
Biodiversity Hotspot: Wildlife and Flora
This diverse flora creates a thriving habitat for a wide array of wildlife. Birdwatchers will find Dunas do Acaraí particularly rewarding, as many native bird species inhabit the area. Beyond birds, the park is also home to various reptiles and other small animals that have adapted to this specific ecosystem. Observing these creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight for many visitors.
Conservation efforts are crucial for maintaining this biodiversity. Visitors are encouraged to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid any actions that could disrupt their natural behavior or habitat. The park's ecological significance makes it a valuable destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in conservation.
Coastal Charm: Beaches and Rivers
Adding to the landscape's allure is the presence of a river that flows through or near the park, creating a unique confluence of freshwater and saltwater environments. This interaction between river and sea contributes to the area's ecological diversity and offers different perspectives for exploration. Visitors can enjoy the contrast between the sandy shores and the flowing waters.
The combination of beaches and the river makes Dunas do Acaraí a versatile destination. Whether you're looking for a peaceful beach day or an opportunity to witness unique natural formations where water bodies meet, this area provides a memorable experience.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit