Father's Day in Garopaba
If there's one thing you learn from living on or visiting the southern coast of Santa Catarina, it's that... Father's Day in Garopaba It doesn't quite fit with that rushed lunch at some random shopping mall. Here the itinerary is different: it begins with the sound of the sea, goes along a short trail to a waterfall, climbs a dune, and ends at a table with grilled fish and casual conversation.
Here, we're known as the surf capital of Santa Catarina, but we're much more than just waves. There are trails, waterfalls, dunes, fishermen's stories told in museums, and you even have the chance to see a southern right whale swimming close to the coast—because in August, on the southern coast, it's whale season.
We've put together tours, recommendations for where to eat and where to stay, so you can create your perfect itinerary!
Why Garopaba is a great destination for Father's Day.
Before getting into the tips, it's worth understanding why Garopaba works so well for this type of trip. We're located between the sea and the mountains, which already guarantees variety: you can take a beach stroll in the morning and a hike in the late afternoon, without leaving the area. Furthermore, August is one of the most special months of the year because it's when southern right whales arrive to give birth and care for their calves in calmer waters—and Garopaba is one of the few places in Brazil where you can see these giants directly from the beach or from a viewpoint.
So, if your father is the type who gets emotional at this kind of scene, Father's Day in Garopaba could become truly unforgettable.
Outings and activities to do with your father
1. Southern Right Whale Expedition — the most special program of the season.
Between July and November, Garopaba experiences a unique natural spectacle: southern right whales approach the coast to give birth and care for their calves in protected waters. Southern Right Whale Expedition, land tour conducted by I love Garopaba., The tour covers some of the beaches with the highest whale sighting rates in the region, with strategic stops and accompanied by a specialized tour guide who explains whale behavior and the importance of conserving the species.
The tour lasts on average up to 4 hours (with an extended 6-hour option, including a stop for a typical regional lunch) and can include a visit to the National Southern Right Whale Center or the Southern Right Whale Museum — great for those who enjoy adding historical content to the tour. Transportation departs from accommodation, subject to availability of pick-up points, and prices start at R$ 248.00 per person. It is advisable to book in advance, as departures require a minimum number of participants.
📍 Contact: (48) 99858-6623 | Instagram: @amogaropabaturismo
2. Siriú Dunes — the “Lençóis Catarinenses” and sandboarding
Extending for approximately 5 kilometers, the Siriú Dunes They form a veritable desert by the sea, with mounds of golden sand that change shape according to the wind and the seasons. In the summer, after the rains, small lagoons of crystal-clear water appear between the dunes — which earned the place the affectionate nickname "Lençóis Catarinenses" (Santa Catarina Sheets).
From the top of the dunes you can see the Siriú Beach Down there, and — coincidence or not — it's also a great spot to try and spot southern right whales swimming close to the coast at this time of year. The place is free, always open, and is a favorite spot for sandboarding, a sport that entertains people of all ages. If your dad is competitive, you might well spend the whole afternoon sliding down the dune on your boards just to see who can go the furthest.
📍 Areias de Macacu – Estr. Paulo Lopes (GRP-010), 1510, Garopaba
3. House of Culture and CAT — whaling history and view of the cove
For those who enjoy culture and history, a stroll through House of Culture, Located in the Historic Center of Garopaba, it's a must-see. The building houses the Tourist Information Center (CAT), a gallery for temporary exhibitions, the fishermen's communal ranch, the Municipal Public Library, and even whale bones and panels that tell the story of the city — including the time when Garopaba's economy depended on whaling.
From the terrace, the view of the cove with boats is one of those moments to take a picture with your dad and keep as a treasure. Admission is free and it's open Monday to Saturday.
📍 R. Manoel de Araújo, 200, Garopaba – (48) 3254-8150
A quick, free, and meaningful outing — perfect to alternate with the beaches on your Father's Day itinerary in Garopaba.
4. Where to eat with your father in Garopaba
After a day of sun, hiking, and sandboarding, the good part arrived: the meal. Garopaba has the taste of the sea and Azorean culture, and the city's menu goes far beyond the beach.
Rincão Bar e Parrilla — for the dad who loves grilled meat.
If your father is one of those who prefer a good roast beef to anything else, then... Rincão Bar and Grill, Located in the center of Garopaba, this restaurant is the perfect choice. It specializes in prime cuts of meat prepared exclusively on the grill, following the tradition of Uruguayan parrillas — and works with meat certified by the Brazilian Hereford and Braford Association, guaranteeing proper handling and animal welfare throughout the production chain.
The atmosphere is cozy, the meats are prepared according to each customer's preference, and the place is pet-friendly — so if the family dog comes along for the ride, nobody is left out.
📍 Rua Ananias Gustavo Nascimento, 51, Garopaba | Instagram: @rincaogaropaba
Ygarapaba Restaurant — convenience and flavor since 2009
For a relaxed, no-fuss lunch, the Ygarapaba Restaurant It has been a reference point for residents and visitors of Garopaba for over 15 years. The menu features executive dishes with meat, chicken, fish, vegetarian and vegan options, as well as appetizers — good for those who want variety without spending too much.
📍 R. Ananias Gustavo Nascimento, 40 – Centro, Garopaba | WhatsApp: (48) 99125-7357
Guiméme's Grill Burgers — for the dad who loves a handcrafted burger.
If the Father's Day program in Garopaba involves the whole family, including the little ones, it's worth considering... Guiméme's Grill Burgers. It's a burger joint with a rustic and welcoming atmosphere, serving handcrafted burgers made with grilled entrecôte, and also offering vegetarian, vegan, and chicken options on the menu. The restaurant even grows its own herbs and greens, ensuring freshness in every dish.
📍 R. Victor Carlos Nauck, 604 – Centro, Garopaba | WhatsApp: (48) 99181-7006
Zanoni Restaurant — for the dad who's a seafood fan.
If your father is the type who can't resist a good fish, then... Zanoni Restaurant It's the right choice. Located in Garopaba, the restaurant serves à la carte seafood with side dishes, in generous and beautifully presented portions, in a very welcoming space. The restaurant is open every night and for lunch from Friday to Sunday.
📍 SC-434, 2609 – Palhocinha, Garopaba | WhatsApp: (48) 8402-7691 | Instagram: @restaurantzanoni
5. Where to stay in Garopaba with your father
If the plan is to extend the weekend and turn Father's Day in Garopaba into a two- or three-day getaway, the city has accommodation options for all tastes.
Hotel and Pousada da Lagoa
Considered one of the city's favorites, the Lagoon Inn This property combines rustic and beachy style in 17 carefully decorated apartments. It features a seasonal outdoor pool, sauna with relaxation room, balconies overlooking the garden, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking—all with breakfast included and highly praised service!
📍 WhatsApp: (48) 99140-2028
Pousada Engenho da Lagoa
For those who enjoy a place with history (and a father who appreciates details like that will love it), the Pousada Engenho da Lagoa It's located in a former cassava mill dating back to the 1960s. The décor incorporates original pieces from the mill, creating a unique atmosphere, and the inn is just a five-minute walk from... Ferrugem Beach — one of the most beautiful in the region, overlooking the Enchanted Lagoon.
📍 R. das Taboas, s/n – Capão, Garopaba | WhatsApp: (48) 3254-0100
How to plan your Father's Day itinerary in Garopaba
If you're short on time to decide everything, here's a simple one-day itinerary suggestion:
- Morning: House of Culture, starting with history and that view of the bay.
- Afternoon: Siriú Dunes, offering sandboarding and the chance to spot a southern right whale.
- Night: Night: Zanoni Restaurant (if the father is a fan of seafood), Rincão Bar e Parrilla (if he prefers barbecue) or Ygarapaba Restaurant (for a practical dinner)
And if the plan is to extend the trip, just add... Southern Right Whale Expedition in the itinerary and reserve a night at Pousada Engenho da Lagoa or in Hotel and Inn of the Lagoon.
It's worth experiencing Father's Day in Garopaba.
Ultimately, celebrating Father's Day in Garopaba means choosing to trade that rushed lunch for a real day – with sea, trails, history, and good food. The city has the infrastructure to welcome entire families, tours that work for more adventurous and more contemplative fathers, and a time of year that only happens in a few places in Brazil: with whales swimming close to the coast.
If your father enjoys nature, history, or simply a good meal with the family gathered together, Garopaba is ready to welcome you both.
