Penha

Penha: Where history meets the sea and fun comes to life

Why visit Penha

Penha is an ideal destination for responsible tourism, combining attractions and environmental preservation. Beto Carrero World, its main theme park, draws visitors, but the city also offers 19 beaches and natural areas that encourage ecotourism. Tourists can explore trails and viewpoints while respecting the environment and enjoying the local biodiversity. The seafood cuisine highlights regional products, and the city promotes a welcoming and peaceful environment, perfect for those looking to relax and support the region’s sustainable development.

Destination’s sustainability performance

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Culture & Local Life

In addition to tourism, fishing is one of the main economic activities of the Penha community. The city has a strong fishing tradition, with many families involved in catching fish, shrimp, and shellfish. Artisanal fishing is quite common, and much of the seafood consumed locally and in nearby cities comes from the waters of Penha. This activity not only supplies the local cuisine but also generates jobs and sustains the region’s economy, preserving cultural traditions tied to the sea. Tourism in Penha began to develop in the 1980s with the growing popularity of its beaches and the recognition of the Santa Catarina coast as a tourist destination. The most significant milestone in the consolidation of tourism in Penha was the inauguration of Beto Carrero World in 1991. Created by João Batista Sérgio Murad, known as Beto Carrero, the park transformed the city into a renowned national and international tourist destination. From then on, the flow of visitors increased significantly, boosting the hospitality, restaurant, and local commerce sectors. The development of tourism brought a new economic dynamic to Penha, complementing fishing and creating more jobs, especially in services related to hosting tourists. The combination of the fishing tradition with the new tourist potential helped diversify the city’s economy.

Sustainability

Penha has made progress in the field of sustainability, especially due to the growth of tourism and the need to preserve its natural resources. The city is located in an area rich in biodiversity, with beaches, Atlantic Forest, and marine life, which requires efforts to balance economic development with environmental preservation. Penha received the silver seal from Green Destinations, recognizing it as a destination committed to ecotourism and sustainability. It attracts tourists seeking responsible and environmentally respectful experiences, encouraging the city to continue investing in environmental initiatives, sustainable education, and the preservation of its natural areas and biodiversity.

GOOD BUSINESSES

Discover accommodations, restaurants, shops and attractions that are commited to responsible development

Nature & Wildlife

The city is surrounded by preserved areas that provide a unique natural experience, especially for ecotourism enthusiasts. In addition to the beaches, Penha offers trails and viewpoints that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region. The vegetation in Penha is predominantly Atlantic Forest, one of the richest biomes in biodiversity in Brazil. In areas near the coast, it is common to find restinga, shrubs, and small trees adapted to the coastal environment. The combination of preserved beaches, lush vegetation, and trails that lead to breathtaking views makes Penha an attractive destination for those seeking direct contact with nature and wildlife.

Getting there

The nearest airport to Penha is the Navegantes International Airport (Ministro Victor Konder Airport), which is only 12 km away from the city. There are also options to land at Florianópolis International Airport, which is 110 km away, or at Joinville Airport, which is 80 km away. Penha is easily accessible via BR-101, the main highway running along the coast of Santa Catarina. Travelers coming from the south (Florianópolis) or the north (Curitiba and São Paulo) can follow BR-101 until the Navegantes junction and then take the local roads to Penha.

Getting around

To explore everything the city has to offer, there are three options: renting a car, renting a bicycle and using the bike path, or better yet, using public transport, which is free for everyone (although, in this case, you are subject to the bus schedule, which may take more time and reduce your visits to tourist attractions).

Find out here about suggestions from the destination of 7-day trips to visit Lika Destination.

Sustainability Recognitions

CERTIFICATION

Penha received a silver award for its efforts in sustainable development in 2024.

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