Lagoa da Conceição

Lagoa da Conceição is a lagoon on the east side of Santa Catarina Island, surrounded by hills, plains, restinga (coastal scrub) and, on the far side, the sea. It is divided into the Lagoa de Dentro (inner lagoon) and the Lagoa de Fora (outer lagoon), separated by the bridge at the Freguesia da Lagoa, and connects to the ocean through a channel that reaches Barra da Lagoa, according to Wikipedia.

What to do

• Lookout: the road down from downtown to the Lagoa crosses Morro da Lagoa, with a panoramic view of the water, the dunes and the sea.
• Centrinho da Lagoa: streets of restaurants, bars and shops near the bridge. At night, it is one of the liveliest spots on the island.
• Avenida das Rendeiras: the avenue along the outer lagoon is named after the lacemakers of bobbin lace, an Azorean heritage.
• Boat to Costa da Lagoa: a community with no car access, reached by boat or on foot. See Costa da Lagoa.
• Water sports: the lagoon’s calm waters are used for rowing, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing and kitesurfing, depending on the wind.

Dunes and beaches next door

To the east are the dunes of the Lagoa da Conceição Dunes Municipal Nature Park and Joaquina Beach. Praia Mole and Galheta are also just minutes away.

Take care

Before going into the lagoon, check the IMA/SC bathing water bulletins. Spots near built-up areas may be unfit for swimming at times.