A Campeche Island It is located across from Campeche Beach, on the east side of Florianópolis, and can only be reached by boat. A visit requires a digital permit, which costs per R$ 15 person and can be obtained on the city government’s website or is included in the package offered by the boatmen’s associations; the number of visitors per day is limited.
Boats depart from three locations: Campeche Beach, Armação Beach, and Barra da Lagoa. During the summer of 2025/2026, the crossing cost between R$ 185 and R$ 250 per person, depending on the departure point and the time of year. Below are the rules, the trails, and what to bring.
Why are visits restricted?
The island was designated a historic site by the IPHAN in 2000 as an archaeological and landscape heritage site. It features more than 100 petroglyphs, rock engravings, spread across 10 archaeological sites, as well as stone-tool workshops. It is the largest concentration of this type of artifact on the Brazilian coast, with human traces dating back thousands of years. For this reason, visits are governed by IPHAN Ordinance No. 691 of 2009 and specific codes of conduct.
Visitation Rules
1. Daily Limit and Authorization
In the summer of 2025/2026, the city government maintained the limit of 800 visitors per day, with visits from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. Each person needs a digital ticket R$ 15, which can be purchased on the website ilhadocampeche.pmf.sc.gov.br. Travel agencies and associations note that the fee is already included in the tour price. The website states that there are no rescheduling or refund options, and that the island may close due to rough seas or bad weather.
2. Trails with a guide only
Land trails may only be taken with certified guides. The options listed by the visitor program are Letreiro, Pedra Preta do Sul, Pedra Fincada, and Volta Leste, lasting from 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes and costing between R$ 15 and R$ 45 per person. In the summer, there’s also an underwater snorkeling trail for about R$ 80. Ask the guide staff which trails are open before setting out.
3. What Is Prohibited
It is not permitted to feed the coatis, camp, have a barbecue, smoke on the trails, bring alcoholic beverages, bring animals (except service dogs), plants, or equipment that causes pollution, or use a speaker. It is also prohibited to remove rocks, shells, or any natural or archaeological artifacts.
Boats: Where They Depart From and What the Crossing Is Like
1. Campeche Beach
It's the shortest crossing. The local association operates boats that hold 6 people, and the trip takes 5 to 15 minutes.
2. Armação Beach
Two boat companies operate out of Armação with boats that can carry up to 20 people. The crossing takes 30 to 45 minutes and follows the southern coast.
3. Barra da Lagoa
Larger schooners, accommodating up to 82 people, depart from Barra da Lagoa, with a crossing time of 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. It’s a longer, more leisurely trip, ideal for those who prefer a larger boat.
Children under 5 ride for free. The visit to the island usually lasts about four hours. Be sure to book in advance during peak season and on holidays, as each association has a limited number of spots available.
When to Go
Visits are available year-round, though they are always subject to weather and sea conditions. The high season runs from December through March, when there are lifeguards on the island, more boat trips, and higher prices. Outside of the summer, the crowds thin out and the tour is more relaxed, but be sure to check whether the associations are operating on your chosen date. Since this post is being published in October, it’s a good idea to check the city government’s website for the rules and prices for the 2026/2027 season.
What to Bring
- Water and snacks: There are usually long lines for food on the island, and prices are high.
- Cash for services on the island, in addition to credit cards.
- Sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing. There is little shade on the beach.
- Snorkel mask, if you have one. The water is usually very clear in the summer.
- Bag for bringing your trash back.
- Lightweight sneakers if you're going hiking with a guide.
How to get to the boarding locations from downtown
From TICEN, the 410 TIRIO/TICEN Direct line goes to the Rio Tavares Terminal, where buses depart for Campeche and the southern part of the island. To get to Barra da Lagoa, head to TILAG at Lagoa da Conceição. By car or ride-sharing app, Campeche Beach and Armação are accessible via SC-405 and SC-406, and Barra da Lagoa via SC-404 and SC-406. Leave early: the first boats are the most crowded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to schedule a visit to Campeche Island?
Yes. Each visitor must have a digital permit R$ 15, which can be obtained on the city government’s website or is included in the boatmen’s association package.
How much does the tour cost?
In the summer of 2025/2026, the crossing cost between R$ 185 and R$ 250 per person, depending on the departure point and the season. Guided hikes are charged separately.
Can I go to the island on my own, without a guide?
The crossing can be made through authorized organizations or on your own, such as by kayak, provided you have digital authorization. The trails, however, may only be used with an accredited guide.
Start from Downtown for your day in Campeche
When staying at Hotel Farol da Ilha, on Bento Gonçalves Street, you'll be close to the downtown bus terminal and 400 m from the Rita Maria Bus Station, which makes it easy to leave early for the boat. See the accommodations at the Hotel Farol da Ilha and take your time planning the trip.
Cover photo: Luana Almeida via Canva.
