Brazil's Southern Region
Guarda do Embau Travel Guide
A magical place to camp overlooking deep blue waters and rolling hills.
Guarda do Embaú is a small fishing village in Santa Catarina known for its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and excellent surfing conditions. Located near the Serra do Tabuleiro State Park, it attracts both surfers and nature lovers. The village maintains a peaceful, rustic vibe, with hiking trails and the Rio da Madre river adding to its outdoor appeal. It is also the gateway to the popular camping area Vale do Utopia.
Top 5 Things to See & Do in Guarda do Embaú
Surf at Praia da Guarda
Camp at Vale da Utopia
Visit Pedra do Urubu for views
Kayak or SUP on the Rio da Madre
Relax at Praia do Pinheira
Closest airport
The closest airport is located in Florianopolis
Main bus terminal
There is no bus terminal, catch the bus to Florianopolis from a bus stop on the road
N/A
Main ports
How to get to Guarda do Embau
Guarda do Embau is located just south of the island of Florianopolis, in Santa Catarina state. It is know for being the gateway to Vale da Utopia, a scenic campsite that allows you to camp overlooking the ocean.
How to get to Vale da Utopia from Florianopolis:
First take a bus from Florianopolis' central bus terminal (TICEN), to the Palhoça bus terminal. This bus runs regularly and takes 1.5 hours.
In Palhoça, change to the bus to Guarda do Embau. This bus runs several times per day and takes around 2.5 hours.
The bus will stop at both Praia da Pinheira and Praia Guarda do Embaú. For Vale da Utopia, get off the bus at Praia da Pinheira and walk to the start of the trail, marked as Trilha Praia do Maço Vale da Utopia (map).
How to get around Guarda do Embau
Most places around Guarda do Embau and surrounds are within walking distance, however Uber is also available. It takes around 35 minutes to walk between the northern point of Guarda do Embau and Praia de Cima.
Vale da Utopia and Praia do Maço can be reached by a short 30 minute trail beginning from the far eastern side of Praia de Cima, where the rocks begin. The start of the trail is marked on this map.
Things to know before you go
Camping is common, however most campsites charge a reasonably high daily fee. Free camping is possible in some areas of Vale da Utopia, however it is best to camp on the farm property at Praia do Maço. This costs R$20 per person per night, and includes the use of a toilet and shower. You can also feel more secure if you want to leave your tent and belongings at the site for the day (nevertheless, of course it's best not to leave any valuables).
