Location
Brazil
Status
Officially Designated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
December to March
About Praia Pedra Altas
Pedras Altas is a small, sheltered beach in Palhoça, on the mainland coast about 30 km south of Florianópolis, beyond the Enseada de Brito area. It is one of Santa Catarina's three naturist beaches listed by the Brazilian Naturist Federation, and its naturist group dates from 1994. The beach is split in two, with rocks and vegetation separating a clothed side from the naturist side. The water is unusually calm for the Santa Catarina coast, with little or no surf, which makes it suitable for children and easy swimming. Both sides have a bar and restaurant. The naturist side also has a small, rustic pousada, a camping area and its own parking, so it works for an overnight stay as well as a day trip. Because the approach is difficult, the beach stays quiet compared with Praia do Pinho or Galheta, and it draws mainly regulars, couples and families. Some reports say there are separate spots for unaccompanied visitors and for couples and families.
Getting there
From Florianópolis take the BR-101 south and leave at the Enseada de Brito exit (km 232), then follow the coastal road south to its end at Pedras Altas. The FBrN describes the access as precarious, with an unpaved final stretch, and some guides mention a steep trail of about 20 minutes. There is parking on the naturist side. Jotur buses run from the TICEN terminal in Florianópolis towards Enseada de Brito, but expect to walk or arrange transport for the last part.
Amenities
Legal context
Pedras Altas is listed by the Brazilian Naturist Federation as a naturist beach and appeared in 2023 national press lists of Brazil's eight official nude beaches. Some sources say its naturist designation was affected when the area became a municipal natural monument in 2016, with the practice continuing by custom; we could not confirm this, so check with Palhoça council or the FBrN.
Naturism at Praia Pedra Altas sits under Brazil's rules for officially designated nude beaches — explicit protection inside the marked area.
Full country law: Brazil public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. -27.7948, -48.6172
Visitor tips
- 1 Official designation: nudity is protected inside the marked area.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Brazil
Frequently asked questions
Is Pedras Altas an official nude beach?
It is listed by the Brazilian Naturist Federation. Some reports question whether the municipal designation survived a 2016 environmental reclassification, so check current status locally.
Is it good for families?
Yes. The sea is calm with almost no waves, and families and couples are among the regulars.
How do I get there?
Take BR-101 south from Florianópolis to Enseada de Brito (km 232), then follow the coastal road south. The final access is rough.
Can I stay overnight?
Yes. The naturist side has a simple pousada and a camping area.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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