Introduction
If you're planning a visit to Campeche Island in Florianópolis, know that you're about to discover one of the most beautiful places in Brazil. However, due to preservation regulations and high tourist interest, it's essential to plan ahead to make the most of your experience. In this guide, we provide all the information you need to know, both for tourists and boat operators. Let's go?
Campeche Island: Archaeological and scenic heritage
Since 2000, Campeche Island has been listed as an Archaeological and Landscape Heritage site by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN). This means that the preservation of 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 rock paintings and engravings from ancient peoples who inhabited the region.
Because it is such a special area, certain rules are in place to ensure its preservation. One of the main rules is the visitor limit: only 800 people can access the island per day during the high season (December to March), while during the low season the limit is 700 people.
Changes in visitation in 2025
Starting in January 2025, the City Hall 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 hall's official website.
It's important to remember that, at the beginning of the season, the visitor limit was exceeded, leading to increased enforcement by the Municipal Guard. Therefore, plan ahead and follow all the steps in the booking process.
As of the date this text was written (January 23), all available slots for visits were 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:
- Register on the website: Access the official website of the City Hall and register (https://ilhadocampeche.pmf.sc.gov.br./)
- Login and reading the rules: Go to the reservations area and carefully read the visitation rules.
- Contact us by phone: After choosing the association, Contact her directly by phone. to request admission and hire transportation services.
If you choose to go with kayaks or private boat, The ticket must be requested. directly on the website, in the same way.
On the day of your visit, don't forget to bring a official document with photo to present along with the ticket.
Transportation: How to get to Campeche Island
Transportation to the island is provided 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
ACOMPECHE
- 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: Association of Nautical Transport Companies of Barra da Lagoa
- Contact: (48) 99628-9911
Others or own
- Choose this option to travel to the island using the services of other authorized carriers or by your own private means.
ATTENTION: Be sure to book official transportation 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 must be followed. Here are the main ones:
What is prohibited:
- To have a barbecue or a fire.
- Feed the coatis.
- Leaving trash on the beach.
- Pets are allowed (except guide dogs).
- To remove or introduce flora and fauna.
- Use speakers.
- To practice camping.
What you are allowed to bring:
- Cooler.
- Chairs and parasol.
- Beachwear.
- Food and drinks (without excesses that compromise the cleanliness of the place).
Hours of stay:
Visits are only permitted between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Respecting these hours is essential for maintaining organization and security.
Hiking 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 rock paintings and other archaeological sites. The price of the tours varies between R$20 and R$40, depending on the route, and the level of difficulty is medium to high.
Another option is to enjoy the island's restaurant, which serves dishes with fresh seafood, meats, and quick snacks.
For boat operators
If you wish to operate a vessel to transport visitors to Campeche Island, it is essential to be properly registered with the relevant authorities. Here's what you need to know:
1. Vessel traffic license and inspection
- Traffic Permit: Request this authorization from the Florianópolis City Hall, at the Municipal Infrastructure Department.
- Inspection Stamp: The vessel must undergo a safety inspection and obtain a seal proving its suitability for passenger transport.
Without these permits, your vessel will not be able to operate legally.
2. Official vessel registration
After obtaining the license and seal, register your vessel on the official list of the City Hall, which is shared with the inspection agencies. Only registered vessels can access the island to take visitors.
3. Operating rules
- Daily visitor limit: Only 800 people are allowed access to the island per day.
- Operating hours: Transportation is permitted between 9 AM and 5 PM.
- Authorized areas: Use only the permitted embarkation and disembarkation points, as well as the anchorage areas.
- Visitor authorization: Make sure all passengers have authorization issued by the City Hall.
4. Operating quotas
Currently, only vessels affiliated with associations that have signed a Conduct Adjustment Agreement (TAC) are allowed to operate on Campeche Island. If you are not a member of one of these associations, please contact them or consult the City Hall for more information.
5. Penalties for irregular operation
If you operate without proper authorization, the penalties include:
- Fines: High amounts may be applied.
- Vessel seizure: Authorities may impound your vessel.
- Suspension of operations: You may permanently lose the right to operate in the region.
Registering your vessel ensures legal operation, passenger safety, and the preservation of Campeche Island.
Conclusion
Visiting Campeche Island is a unique and unforgettable experience, but it requires planning and respect for preservation rules. From scheduling to choosing transportation, every step is designed to ensure the safety of visitors and the conservation of this jewel of Florianópolis. Therefore, 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!
