Introduction
If you are planning to visit Campeche Island in Florianópolis, you should know that you are about to discover one of the most beautiful places in Brazil. However, due to conservation rules and the great tourist interest, it is essential to plan ahead to make the most of your experience. In this guide, we bring you all the information you need to know, both for tourists and boat drivers. Let's go!
Campeche Island: Archaeological and landscape heritage
Since 2000, Campeche Island has been listed as an Archaeological and Scenic Heritage Site by the National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN). This means that preserving the site is a priority, ensuring that its natural and historical beauty is protected for future generations. In addition to a paradisiacal beach, the island has guided trails that reveal cave paintings and engravings of ancient peoples who inhabited the region.
Because it is such a special area, certain rules are imposed to ensure the conservation of the place. One of the main ones is the limit on visitors: only 800 people can access the island per day during the high season (from December to March), while during the low season the limit is 700 people.
Changes in visitation in 2025
Starting in January 2025, the City of Florianópolis implemented a prior authorization system to control access to Campeche Island. This authorization is individual, mandatory and non-transferable, and is issued exclusively through the city's official website.
It is important to remember that, at the beginning of the season, the visitor limit was not respected, which led to increased monitoring by the Municipal Guard. Therefore, plan in advance and follow all the steps of the reservation process.
As of the date of this text (January 23), the number of places available for visits was sold out until February 6, 2025, the last date open for scheduling.
How to guarantee your visit: Step by step
To visit Campeche Island, follow this simple guide:
- Registration on the website: Access the City Hall's official website and register (https://ilhadocampeche.pmf.sc.gov.br./)
- Login and read the rules: Enter the reservations area and carefully read the visiting rules.
- Choose transportation: Book a official transport for the crossing. Only authorized vessels may make the journey.
- Select date: Choose the date of your visit in the reservation box.
- Add companions: You can add up to three companions per CPF.
- Issue the authorizations: Print or save the QR Codes that give access to the island.
- Enjoy Campeche Island!
It is important to know that the ticket does not include transportation, which must be booked separately.
Transportation: How to get to Campeche Island
Transportation to the island is carried out exclusively by authorized and inspected vessels, ensuring the safety of visitors. Check out the available options:
ABTC
- Name: Association of Boatmen Transporters of Campeche Beach
- Contact: (48) 98475-5001
FOLLOW UP
- Name: Couto de Magalhães Association for the Preservation of Campeche Island
- Contact: (48) 3224-8333 / (48) 98425-6808
APAAPS
- Name: Association of Artisanal Fishermen of Praia da Armação
- Contact: (48) 98430-4097
ATBL
- Name: Barra da Lagoa Nautical Transport Companies Association
- Contact: (48) 99628-9911
Others or own
- Choose this option to go to the island with the services of other authorized transporters or by your own private means.
ATTENTION: Make sure to book official transport in advance, as spaces are limited and highly sought after, especially during peak season.
Visiting rules
To preserve the beauty and integrity of the island, some rules need to be followed. Here are the main ones:
What is prohibited:
- Make a barbecue or fire.
- Feed the coatis.
- Leaving trash on the beach.
- Bring pets (except guide dogs).
- Remove or introduce flora and fauna.
- Use speakers.
- Go camping.
What is allowed to take:
- Cooler.
- Chairs and umbrella.
- Beachwear.
- Food and drinks (without excesses that compromise the cleanliness of the place).
Hours of stay:
Visits are only permitted between 9am and 5pm. Respecting these hours is essential to maintaining organization and security.
Trails and activities on Campeche Island
In addition to enjoying the crystal clear waters and the beauty of the beach, visitors can explore the rich history of the area through guided trails. These trails lead to cave paintings and other archaeological sites. The price of the tours varies between R$$20 and R$$40, depending on the route, and the difficulty level is medium to high.
Another option is to enjoy the island's restaurant, which serves fresh seafood, meat and quick snacks.
For boat drivers
If you want to operate a vessel to transport visitors to Campeche Island, it is essential to be registered with the relevant authorities. Here is what you need to know:
1. Traffic license and vessel inspection
- Traffic License: Request this authorization at the Florianópolis City Hall, at the Municipal Infrastructure Department.
- Inspection Seal: The vessel must undergo a safety inspection and obtain a seal proving its suitability for transporting passengers.
Without these authorizations, your vessel will not be able to operate legally.
2. Official registration of the vessel
After obtaining the license and seal, register your vessel on the City Hall's official list, which is shared with the inspection agencies. Only registered vessels can access the island to carry visitors.
3. Operating rules
- Daily visitor limit: Only 800 people are allowed to access the island per day.
- Hours of Operation: Transport permitted between 9am and 5pm.
- Authorized areas: Use only permitted embarkation and disembarkation points, in addition to anchorage areas.
- Visitors authorization: Make sure that all passengers have authorization issued by the City Hall.
4. Operating quotas
Currently, only vessels linked to associations that have signed a Conduct Adjustment Agreement (TAC) can operate on Campeche Island. If you are not part of one of these associations, contact them or consult the City Hall for more information.
5. Penalties for irregular operation
If you operate without regularization, the penalties include:
- Fines: High amounts may apply.
- Seizure of vessel: Authorities may seize your vessel.
- Suspension of operation: You may permanently lose the right to operate in the region.
Regularizing your vessel ensures legal operation, safety for passengers and preservation of Campeche Island.
Conclusion
Visiting Campeche Island is a unique and unforgettable experience, but it requires planning and respect for conservation rules. From booking to choosing transportation, each step is designed to ensure the safety of visitors and the preservation of this jewel of Florianópolis. So plan ahead, follow the rules and make the most of this paradise!
If you have any questions or encounter difficulties during the authorization process, please contact the city hall for clarification. Have a good trip and enjoy every moment on Campeche Island!
