Penha, Santa Catarina, is known for its stunning beaches and the famous Beto Carrero World theme park. But you don’t need a big budget to enjoy what this coastal town has to offer. From free nature escapes to affordable seafood and local adventures, this low-budget travel guide to Penha shows you how to make the most of your trip without overspending.
🏖️ 1. Visit the Blue Flag Beaches — Free and Beautiful
Penha has three Blue Flag beaches:
Praia Grande: Wide and less crowded, ideal for long walks and quiet mornings.
Bacia da Vovó: Calm waters and family-friendly. Great for small kids and seniors.
Praia da Saudade: More secluded, surrounded by rocks—perfect for photos.
These beaches are clean, safe, and well-maintained. Bring your own towel and umbrella to avoid rental fees.
Pro tip: Visit at sunset for postcard-worthy views without the crowds.
🌿 2. Hike to Praia Branca — Hidden and Cost-Free
This moderate-level trail starts at the end of Armação do Itapocorói.
Expect 25–30 minutes of uneven ground, shady forest paths, and bird songs.
The reward is Praia Branca, a pristine beach with no vendors or loud music—just waves, nature, and soft sand.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a good pair of shoes.
⛵ 3. Take a Scenic Boat Ride — Budget-Friendly Tours
Boat tours from Armação pier cost R$30 to R$50 ($5-10) and last around 90 minutes.
Choose options like “Volta à Ilha” to see:
Ilha do Tabuleiro
Hidden beaches only accessible by water
Possible dolphin sightings
Ask about combo deals or group rides for discounts.
🥘 4. Eat Like a Local — Flavor Without the Price
Skip the upscale spots. These local gems deliver quality on a budget:
Petisqueira do Elcio: Try their crispy isca de peixe (fish bites) with lemon and beer.
Bar Restaurante da Fátima: Famous for the “sequência de camarão” (shrimp sequence).
Mercado Central: Ideal for picnic items—fresh fruit, bread, cold cuts.
Pro tip: Ask for the "prato feito" — set meals under R$30, usually with rice, beans, salad, and fish or chicken.
🍹 5. Enjoy Beach Kiosks — Coconut Water & Snacks
Kiosks at Praia Alegre and Praia do Quilombo offer:
Fresh coconut water for R$5–10 ($1-2)
Fried shrimp or pastel de camarão for R$15–35 ($3-7)
Beach chairs often free with consumption
Enjoy a chill afternoon without needing to sit at a formal restaurant.
🎢 6. Visit Beto Carrero World Without Breaking the Bank
Yes, even the top attraction can be affordable:
Buy tickets weeks in advance via the official site or Hurb.
Weekday tickets: cheaper and less crowded.
Bring your own food in a small bag.
Walk to the park from nearby hotels to skip the R$60 ($10-12) parking.
Check the promotions page for:
Birthday free entry
Santa Catarina resident discounts
2-day combo passes
🏨 Where to Sleep Cheap in Penha
Hostels & Pousadas: In Armação do Itapocorói, you’ll find clean, simple rooms from R$100 ($20-25)
Airbnb Apartments: Great deals in off-season (March–November), often under R$150 ($30-40) per night.
Many stays are within walking distance to beaches or the park.
Pro tip: Book early for holidays or weekends—Penha fills up fast.
🗓️ Best Times to Travel on a Budget
Avoid high season: December to February means higher hotel and food prices.
Travel during shoulder months (March-April, September-November) for great weather and better rates.
Weekdays = less crowd + cheaper attractions.
🚲 Getting Around Penha on a Budget
Bike Rentals: Around R$20/($4) day. Great for the beachfront trails.
Local Buses: R$4–6 ($1)per trip. Check schedules at the rodoviária.
Walking or Carpooling: If staying centrally, you won’t need a car.
📊 Budget Snapshot Table
| Activity | Estimated Cost | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Day (Blue Flag) | Free | Clean, scenic, well-kept |
| Hike to Praia Branca | Free | Nature, tranquility, photos |
| Boat Tour | R$30–50 | Ocean views, islands, dolphins |
| Local Lunch (prato feito) | R$20–30 | Affordable and authentic |
| Beto Carrero (weekday) | R$120–160 | Theme park + promo deals |
| Bike Rental | R$20 | Easy, scenic transport |
| Coconut + Shrimp Snack | R$15–25 | Cheap beachside refreshment |
| Airbnb/Pousada (off-season) | R$100–150/night | Central, walkable lodging |
Total Daily Budget (approx.): R$150 – R$280 ($30-60)
✅ Final Thoughts
Penha proves that budget travel can be rich in experiences. Explore beaches with crystal-clear water, hike through coastal forest, eat seafood by the ocean, and enjoy world-class attractions like Beto Carrero World—all while staying within budget.
Travel off-season, eat local, and walk whenever possible. With smart planning, you’ll stretch your reais and bring home unforgettable memories.
☀️ Travel smart. Travel Penha.
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