Praia do Cardoso
A wild, natural beach in Laguna, SC, known for its powerful waves, scenic coastal trail, and traditional fishing heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the natural beauty
Praia do Cardoso
Best Time
Enjoy the natural beauty
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A wild, natural beach in Laguna, SC, known for its powerful waves, scenic coastal trail, and traditional fishing heritage.
"Praia do Cardoso offers a beautiful, natural escape with a scenic trail and a glimpse into local fishing traditions."
🥾 Trail Footwear Essential
Wear closed-toe shoes for the coastal trail; it's easy but can be slippery.
💧 Pack Your Own Water
This is a natural beach with few amenities. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Untamed Coastal Trail
Access to Praia do Cardoso
A scenic, moderately easy hike through coastal landscapes leading to the pristine beach.
Fisherman's Tradition
Praia do Cardoso shoreline
Witness the traditional fishing culture with boat sheds dotting the picturesque natural scenery.
Dramatic Ocean Views
Praia do Cardoso
Experience the raw power of the Atlantic with impressive waves and breathtaking natural vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Beauty
Respect the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Trail Footwear Essential
Wear closed-toe shoes for the coastal trail; it's easy but can be slippery.
💧 Pack Your Own Water
This is a natural beach with few amenities. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
🚗 Park Safely
Avoid parking on the sand! Use the ample, free parking lot with boardwalk access.
🌊 Respect the Tides
The sea can surge unexpectedly. Be aware of the tides and avoid getting too close to the water's edge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Trail Footwear Essential
Wear closed-toe shoes for the coastal trail; it's easy but can be slippery.
💧 Pack Your Own Water
This is a natural beach with few amenities. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
🚗 Park Safely
Avoid parking on the sand! Use the ample, free parking lot with boardwalk access.
🌊 Respect the Tides
The sea can surge unexpectedly. Be aware of the tides and avoid getting too close to the water's edge.
🎣 Observe Local Life
Appreciate the 'fisherman's beach' vibe with its traditional boat sheds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Praia do Cardoso is lauded for its stunning, natural beauty and the scenic coastal trail access. Visitors appreciate its wild, untamed atmosphere and the picturesque fishing traditions. However, the powerful waves and limited amenities mean visitors should come prepared and respect the ocean's might.
"Beautiful little beach for camping, it's about a 10-minute walk away"
Ignacio Pra
"Praia bonita acessada pela trilha costeira de zimbros. A caminhada é razoavelmente tranquila até a praia, mas é melhor fazer ela com calçado fechado para evitar escorregões na trilha.
A vista da praia compensa bastante o esforço"
Giovani
"Não conheço mas eu estou começando a ouvir falar"
Rafael Cardoso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Praia do Cardoso is accessed via a coastal trail, often described as moderately easy. It's recommended to wear closed-toe shoes for the hike.
Yes, there is an ample and free parking lot available with boardwalk access to the beach. It's strongly advised not to park your vehicle directly on the sand due to unpredictable tides.
Praia do Cardoso is located in Laguna, Santa Catarina, specifically at the Cabo de Santa Marta. It's known for its natural beauty and traditional fishing atmosphere.
The primary access is through a scenic coastal trail. While generally easy, proper footwear is recommended to avoid slips.
Information on direct public transport to Praia do Cardoso is limited. It's often best reached by car, with parking available nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Praia do Cardoso is a natural beach and does not require an entrance ticket. Access is free.
As a natural beach, Praia do Cardoso is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to enjoy the scenery.
The coastal trail leading to Praia do Cardoso is free to access.
While not explicitly stated as a designated campsite, reviews mention it being a beautiful little beach for camping, suggesting it's possible.
The main advice is to be mindful of the powerful sea and tides, and to avoid parking on the sand.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy the natural beauty, walk the coastal trail, observe the traditional fishing activities, and appreciate the powerful waves. It's a great spot for relaxation and connecting with nature.
Praia do Cardoso is known for its strong waves, making it more suitable for experienced surfers or those who enjoy watching the powerful ocean. Swimming may be challenging for casual swimmers.
Expect a wild, natural landscape with dramatic ocean views, strong waves, and traditional fishing boat sheds. It's a picturesque setting.
Praia do Cardoso is generally considered a less crowded, more natural beach, often described as a refuge.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for the trail.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Praia do Cardoso is a natural beach with limited amenities. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, packing a picnic is a great idea since there are no dining facilities directly on the beach.
Information on nearby food options is scarce, reinforcing the recommendation to come prepared with your own provisions.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic waves, the rugged coastline, the traditional fishing sheds, and the stunning sunsets. The coastal trail also offers great vantage points.
Absolutely! Praia do Cardoso is known for its spectacular sunsets, offering a perfect backdrop for photography.
A wide-angle lens would be great for capturing the expansive coastal views, and a telephoto lens could be useful for wildlife or distant wave shots. Consider a polarizing filter for water.
The coastal trail itself provides excellent elevated viewpoints of the beach and the surrounding landscape.
While not explicitly prohibited, always check local drone regulations before flying. The open space and scenic views would make for impressive footage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Given the limited amenities, packing plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection is essential. The natural beauty and the chance to see fishing boats can be engaging for children, but supervision is key due to the powerful ocean.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
The beach itself is a testament to raw, natural beauty, with powerful waves and a rugged coastline. It's an ideal spot for photography, birdwatching, and simply immersing yourself in the environment. Remember to pack essentials like water and snacks, as services are minimal.
🏄 Surfers & Wave Lovers
While the waves can be impressive, they also mean that casual swimming might be challenging. Visitors should be aware of the ocean's strength and exercise caution. The beach's natural setting provides a dramatic backdrop for enjoying the surf culture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Coastal Trail
This trail is a key element for experiencing the beach's natural setting. It connects visitors to the wilder side of the region, offering a sense of discovery as you approach the shore. The effort is well worth the reward of reaching this pristine natural environment.
Remember to stay aware of your surroundings and enjoy the natural beauty unfolding with every step. The trail is a great way to appreciate the landscape before even reaching the sand.
Understanding the Ocean's Power
Travelers have noted instances of the sea surging unexpectedly, even leading to vehicles getting stuck when parked too close to the water. This highlights the importance of respecting the ocean's power and adhering to safety advice.
It's crucial to be aware of the tides and avoid parking directly on the sand. The beach offers a designated parking area with boardwalk access, which is the safest option. This natural wildness is part of Praia do Cardoso's charm, but it demands respect and caution from visitors.
Embracing the 'Fisherman's Beach' Vibe
This traditional aspect adds a unique cultural layer to the natural beauty of the beach. It's a place where nature and human tradition coexist harmoniously. Visitors can appreciate the authentic atmosphere and the connection to the sea that defines this community.
Observing these elements provides a deeper understanding of Praia do Cardoso beyond just its scenic appeal. It's a glimpse into a way of life that has been shaped by the ocean for generations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit