· BR

Tubarão

Tubarao, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Discover Tubarão: Where History Meets Nature in Southern Brazil Nestled in the heart of Santa Catarina, Tubarão offers a charming escape from the ordinary. More than just a name that sparks curiosity (Tubarão means "sha…

#Tubarão#Santa Catarina#Brazil#Coastal city#Cultural hub

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Tubarão.

Top Hotels in Tubarão

Top Flights to Tubarão

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Tubarão.

Tours

Museu Ferroviário de Tubarão

Explore the history of railways in Brazil at this fascinating museum located in an old train station.

Catedral Diocesana Nossa Senhora da Piedade

Visit this beautiful cathedral, known for its impressive architecture and spiritual significance.

Shopping

Shopping Farol

A large shopping center offering a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Outdoor

Morro da Antena Hike

A scenic hike to the Morro da Antena, offering panoramic views of Tubarão and the surrounding landscape.

Parque Ambiental Tractebel

Enjoy a day outdoors at Parque Ambiental Tractebel, which offers beautiful walking trails and picnic areas.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Tubarão.

Currency
R$ | BRL | Brazilian Real
Population
Information not available.
Languages
Portuguese, Portuguese
Average weather
Tubarão
Jan
rain
30°21°
Feb
rain
30°21°
Mar
rain
29°20°
Apr
cloud
27°18°
May
cloud
24°15°
Jun
cloud
22°12°
Jul
clear
22°11°
Aug
clear
23°12°
Sep
cloud
24°14°
Oct
rain
26°16°
Nov
rain
28°18°
Dec
rain
30°20°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Tubarão.

What people love

Tubarão, located in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, offers several advantages for travelers looking to explore this beautiful region:

  1. Natural Beauty: Tubarão is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including lush forests, pristine beaches, and picturesque mountains. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to hike, swim, and explore the diverse ecosystems in the area.

  2. Rich Culture: Tubarão has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of European, Indigenous, and African influences. Visitors can explore historical sites, museums, and cultural events to learn more about the region's history and traditions.

  3. Culinary Delights: Santa Catarina is known for its delicious cuisine, and Tubarão is no exception. Visitors can sample local dishes such as seafood stews, barbecued meats, and traditional Brazilian sweets at the city's many restaurants and markets.

  4. Outdoor Activities: Tubarão offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts, including surfing, kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. The region's diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

  5. Friendly Locals: Visitors to Tubarão will be welcomed by the warm and friendly locals, who are known for their hospitality and welcoming attitude towards tourists. Travelers can expect to feel safe and comfortable during their stay in this charming city.

Overall, Tubarão offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor activities that make it a fantastic destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Santa Catarina, Brazil.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil, could include:

  1. Limited tourist infrastructure: Tubarão may not have as many tourist amenities or facilities compared to more popular tourist destinations in Brazil, which could make it challenging for travelers looking for a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and activities.

  2. Language barrier: English may not be widely spoken in Tubarão, so communication could be difficult for travelers who do not speak Portuguese. This could create challenges when trying to navigate the city, order food, or seek assistance.

  3. Safety concerns: While Tubarão is generally considered safe for tourists, like any destination, travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings to avoid becoming targets of petty crimes such as pickpocketing or theft.

  4. Limited transportation options: Tubarão may have limited public transportation options, which could make it difficult for travelers to get around the city and explore nearby attractions without access to a car.

  5. Limited tourist attractions: Tubarão may not have as many tourist attractions or landmarks compared to other popular destinations in Brazil, which could mean that travelers may have fewer sightseeing options during their visit.

Please note that these potential cons are general considerations and may not apply to every traveler's experience in Tubarão. It is always recommended to research and plan ahead before traveling to any destination.

Tubarao, located in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, is a city with a rich history influenced by indigenous peoples, European settlers, and its development through industry and transportation. Here is a detailed history of Tubarão:

Early History

  • Indigenous Roots: Before European colonization, the area was inhabited by indigenous peoples, primarily the Guarani and Kaingang tribes.
  • First European Contacts: The Portuguese began exploring the region in the 16th century. However, significant settlement did not occur until the 18th century.

19th Century

  • Foundation: Tubarão was officially founded on May 27, 1870. Its name, meaning "shark" in Portuguese, is derived from a local river, Rio Tubarão, named for its winding shape resembling a shark's body.
  • Immigration and Growth: The city saw an influx of European immigrants, particularly Italians, Germans, and Portuguese, contributing to its cultural diversity and economic development.

20th Century

  • Railway Development: The construction of the Dona Teresa Cristina Railway in the early 20th century was a significant boost to the city's economy. It connected Tubarão to other parts of Santa Catarina and facilitated the transportation of coal from the nearby mines.
  • Economic Development: Tubarão became a prominent commercial and industrial hub, especially known for its coal mining, agriculture, and later, ceramic industries.
  • Tragic Flood of 1974: One of the most significant events in Tubarão's history is the catastrophic flood on March 23, 1974. The Tubarão River overflowed due to heavy rains, causing widespread destruction, loss of lives, and displacement of thousands of residents. The disaster prompted major reconstruction efforts and improvements in urban planning and flood prevention.

Historical Figures

  • Willy Zumblick: A notable painter from Tubarão, Zumblick is celebrated for his artwork depicting the cultural and historical aspects of Santa Catarina and Brazil. His works are displayed in various museums.

Landmarks

  • São José Operário Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is a central religious and historical site in Tubarão, reflecting the city's architectural development and cultural heritage.
  • Railway Museum (Museu Ferroviário): Located in the old railway station, this museum preserves the history of the railway that was crucial to Tubarão's development.
  • Unisul (Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina): One of the major educational institutions in the region, contributing to the city's growth and focus on higher education.

Today

  • Economy and Culture: Tubarão continues to thrive as a center for industry, education, and culture. The city is known for its vibrant community events and maintains its importance in the region’s economic landscape.

Tubarao's history is marked by resilience and growth, transforming from a small settlement into a significant city in Santa Catarina, deeply influenced by its natural environment and cultural diversity.