PARQUE UNIPRAIAS

The best way to get from Praia Camboriú to Praia Laranjeiras to the south is by taking the gondola up and over the hill that is the Parque Unipraias. But high-altitude transportation between the beaches is not the only reason for going. First, the gondola ride itself provides a spectacular view of the coast from an altitude of 240 meters. There are 47 gondolas that carry up to six people each (although most go out with just a few people in them, even in peak season). The mid-way point between the two beaches is the Estação Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Rainforest Station) and the main part of Unipraias Park. Here, you can exit the gondola and walk around the nature park to find the three scenic-view platforms. The views from here are at least as impressive as those from the gondolas. On the other side of the hill is what they call the Adventure Park, which offers two ropes courses built into the trees that take you through the forest. Each course has 12 activities and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. The courses cost an extra R$20 each. They are well built, secure, and the guides are excellent—a great value if you know ropes courses.

You can continue from the middle station to the third station, called Estação Laranjeiras, which brings you to the Laranjeiras Beach. The three stations are equipped with bathrooms, snack stands, and even art exhibitions. The first station at Camboriú Beach has a great outdoor seating area from which you can look out on the southern point of the beach.

Parque Unipraias gondolas operate 9 a.m.–8 p.m. and cost R$20 per person. Be sure to keep your ticket when you exit the Laranjeiras station, as this will be needed for your return trip. If you plan to partake of the course, then be sure to bring tennis shoes.