DIVING
The nature reserve that encompasses the islands of Arvoredo, Deserta, Galés and Calhau de São Pedro is considered one of the best places to dive in the whole of Brazil. It is in a strategic point, where the warm waters of the Brazil ocean current meet the cold Malvinas current, known as the Brazil-Malvinas confluence. The result is extremely rich biodiversity as species typical to both climates find shelter here throughout the year. Right whales and green turtles pass through the reserve as they migrate. In addition to its natural interest, the area is also an important archaeological and historic site, with vestiges of human occupation dating back as much as 4,000 years, including ancient burial sites and inscriptions carved into the rocks.

FREE DIVING AND SCUBA DIVING
For experienced and accredited divers. Exclusive trips to a variety of spots in the environs of the Ilha de Santa Catarina (Florianópolis): Ilha do Arvoredo, North islands (Aranhas, Badejo, Mata Fome and Moleques do Norte) or East islands (Xavier and Campeche).
Included in this program is an accredited diving Guide (PADI Dive Master / Instructor), water, 2 cylinders and weights. Other equipment such as buoyancy compensators regulators, clothing and other basic items should be requested in advance and will be charged separately. The diving location will be chosen by the instructor responsible for the expedition, irrespective of prior consultation, taking into account the experience of the client, sea conditions and water quality.


PADI SCUBA DIVING COURSE
The first step for future divers. This course in open water diving is divided into three segments: theory, training in confined waters and in open waters (2 dives). The theory provides the basic principles needed to dive safely and enjoyably. The training in confined waters (swimming pool) enables you to develop the necessary skills and familiarity with the equipment and an understanding of diving techniques. Once in open water (the sea) during the first dive the student will be assessed and will try out the techniques learned so far. The second dive will be reaping the benefits of the training exploring the wonders at the bottom of the sea, in perfect safety and tranquillity. At the end of the course the student will be qualified to dive to 12 metres, always under supervision of a Dive Master or Instructor and will receive an internationally recognised PADI certificate. This program includes all equipment needed for the pool and sea and all training material, 1 trip in a motor boat with an instructor with 2 dives, PADI international certificate.

DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING PROGRAM (BAPTISM)
This is the easiest way to get a taste of diving. An Instructor will give you basic theoretical and practical training in a swimming pool for 1 hour and will then take you for a 40 minute dive in the sea to a depth of no more than 12 metres, giving you exclusive attention for the entire dive and making sure you get the most out of the wonders at the bottom of the sea.

POWER BOAT TRIPS
The captain of the boat will take you on a trip along the whole coast of the Governador Celso Ramos district, exploring the beaches and headlands of the area, passing Praia de Fora, Palmas, Ilhéus, Cicial, Grande, Tinguá, Armação and many others, with a special visit to the Baía dos Golfinhos (Dolphins Bay) which is an environmental protection reserve created to protect these marine mammals. Around 70 dolphins live in the reserve. The final destination is Anhatomirim Island, which was the scene of important events in the history of Santa Catarina and which nowadays houses a museum where you can learn a little more about this piece of Santa Catarina’s cultural heritage.

Other options:

BOMBINHAS AND THE ISLAND OF PORTO BELO
Duration 6 hours, stop for bathing and free diving, lunch in Bombinhas and return following the Atlantic coast.

BALNEÁRIO CAMBORIÚ AND BOMBINHAS
Duration 8 hours, visit to Unipraias Park, Laranjeiras beach for lunch, returning along the coast with visits to Itapema and Bombinhas.

CAMPECHE ISLAND
Duration 6 hours, running close to the East coast of Florianópolis island and passing the islands of Badejo, Aranhas and Xavier. Stop for 2 hours at Campeche Island for bathing, free diving and a walk along a trail on the island.

ARVOREDO ISLAND
Duration 3 hours, stop for 1 hour for bathing and free diving (activities on the islands in the reserve are limited by the Biological Reserve’s regulations).

AROUND THE ISLAND OF FLORIANÓPOLIS
Duration 8 hours, North and South bays, East coast and a stop at Campeche Island for bathing.

OCEAN SPORT FISHING
Trips of up to 8 hours to catch deep sea fish such as Mahi-mahi, Mackerel, Billfish etc., in a stretch of ocean with depths ranging from 230 to 330 feet (70 to 100m), approximately 20-25 miles off the coast.

SEA BOTTOM FISHING
A 5 or an 8 hour trip to catch bottom-dwelling fish such as snappers, porgies groupers, hake, and sand perch, among others, at depths of 230 to 295 feet (70 to 90 m), approximately 20 miles (32 km) from the coast.

COASTAL SPORT FISHING
A 5 or an 8 hour trip to catch sport fish such as whiting, lesser amberjack, amberjack grouper etc. off reefs and the headlands of coastal islands.

GOLF
The golf course is at the Plaza Itapema Resort and has nine holes spread over an area of 180,000 square yards (150,000m²). The course is between the sea and the mountains and offers lakes, trees and hills as natural obstacles. The course is open 365 days a year and has equipment for hire and private instructors.

RAFTING
Rafting in Santa Catarina is a hugely popular adventure sport. There are two main rivers for practicing it: the Cubatão River in Santo Amaro da Imperatriz and the Itajai-Açu River near the town of Apiúna, north of Florianópolis.

Santo Amaro is the closest rafting base to Ponta dos Ganchos (a drive of about 1 hour and 20 minutes). Rafting on the River Cubatão, with class II-III rapids, is ideal for beginners. Intermediates wanting more adrenaline can also have fun: the “Duck” (inflatable kayaks) expedition is run further upstream, on the “Alto Cubatão”, where the rapids are level III-IV. The scenery alongside the river is beautiful: the right margin borders the Serra do Tabuleiro National Park, the biggest Atlantic rainforest reserve in the vicinity of Florianópolis. These mountains, which are visible from everywhere in the city, have peaks of more than 4,000 feet, forming steep, narrow canyons rich in “Mata Atlântica”. Near the end of the run, close to the town of Caldas da Imperatriz, the scenery is more rural but still attractive.


RAFTING ON THE CUBATÃO RIVER, SANTO AMARO DA IMPERATRIZ
Duration: approx. 5 hours
We will meet our specialist instructor at the operational base in Santo Amaro, change into our swimming costumes (or wet suits if it is a cold day) and collect the personal safety equipment. We then drive to the starting point in the river, where the instructor will explain safety procedures and give basic training in paddling for absolute beginners. The 2-hour run is a mixture of class II-III rapids and with calm stretches where we can enjoy a swim. For additional safety, an extra instructor, in a separate raft, follows our boat. After rafting we return to the operational base for shower and change back into dry clothes and return to Ponta dos Ganchos.


KAYAKING EXPEDITION ON THE ALTO CUBATÃO RIVER, SANTO AMARO DA IMPERATRIZ
Duration: approx. 7 hours
For this expedition, customers must have been on at least one rafting trip before and be able to paddle a small, inflatable kayak. Each kayak accommodates one passenger and one instructor.
We will meet our specialist instructor at the operational base in Santo Amaro da Imperatriz, change into our swimming costumes (or wet suits in the winter) and collect the personal safety equipment. We then drive to the town of Vargem Grande to the starting point up the river. Here the guide will explain safety procedures and give basic training in paddling for the less experienced.
The 4-hour run is a mixture of class III-IV rapids, with calm stretches where we can enjoy a swim. There are several small waterfalls where portage of the kayaks might be necessary. At the halfway point, we stop next to a waterfall, in the middle of the Atlantic rainforest, for a rest and a quick snack.
After rafting we return to the operational base for shower and change back into dry clothes and return to Ponta dos Ganchos.


WINDSURFING, KITE SURFING AND SAILING LESSONS
Lagoa da Conceição, the lagoon in the middle of the island in Florianópolis, is internationally renowned as one of the best places in South America for wind sports. Intensive courses as well as individual taster lessons and equipment hire can be arranged.

Please note that these activities can only be confirmed on the day as they are dependent on wind conditions. Normally conditions are better during the afternoon when there is more wind.

PARAGLIDING
Tandem flights are available at various points on the island, but the most reliable base is in Santo Amaro da Imperatriz, where flights are possible most days of the year. The jumping-off point is in the middle of the Serra do Tabuleiro Estate Park, a nature reserve in Atlantic rainforest with mountains more than 4,000 feet high that provide amazing views of Florianópolis and the surrounding areas. During spring and summer months, flights are sometimes possible from points on the Island. These flights afford you aerial views of some of the most famous postcards of the island such as Praia Mole beach and Lagoa da Conceição. Flight duration depends on air currents, but will be a minimum of 15 minutes.

Please note this activity is dependent on wind conditions and as such it can only be confirmed on the day of the trip. Conditions are generally better during the afternoon.


DAY TREKS
The Island of Santa Catarina, part of greater Florianópolis, has 45% of its area covered in Atlantic Rainforest, making it an ideal place for walking. Coastal paths with dramatic scenery lead to deserted beaches. Inland, some of the trails opened by the original Azorean settlers are still the only links to isolated communities. Others cross nature reserves containing lagoons and waterfalls, allowing for wildlife spotting especially birds.

UNSPOILT BEACHES:

LAGOINHA DO LESTE
Possibly the most beautiful beach in Florianópolis, only accessible by footpath or boat. Great views on the way. Approximately 1 ½ hours of steep walk each way.

NAUFRAGADOS
Another beach that is only accessible by foot or boat. A walk of around 2½ miles (4 km) each way, fairly flat, through a nature reserve.

LAGOONS:

COSTA DA LAGOA
An isolated fishing community that can only be reached by footpath or boat. The trail is 4½ (7 km) long and the return trip can be by boat. Simple, but quaint seafood restaurants at the end of the walk offer a chance to try the local food.
PLEASE NOTE - this trip is also available entirely by boat if preferred. Approximately 2 hours walk.


LAGOA DO PERI & SERTÃO DO PERI
A long walk passing by a lagoon, small rivers and waterfalls and the ruins of sugar cane mills. Approximately 4 hours walk.

PRIVATE DAY TRIPS - THE NATURAL WORLD:

WHALE WATCHING DAY TRIP (AUGUST TO OCTOBER)
Every year, between June and November, the Southern Coast of Santa Catarina becomes the stage for an amazing natural spectacle, with the arrival of the Southern Right Whales (Eubalena australis). Escaping the Antarctic winter, they migrate North in search of warmer and calmer waters to reproduce and nurse their young calves.

In the waters of Santa Catarina, they find refuge in a newly-designated area of protection, an area stretching 87 miles (135 km) down the coast from the South of the Island, in Florianópolis. The greatest concentration of whales is off the Southern coast, between the towns of Garopaba and Imbituba.

We recommend that this trip takes place as early as possible in the morning since the wind and sea are both calmer which makes the trip more pleasant and observation easier. We may board at Garopaba or at Imbituba, depending on where the whales have been sighted most recently; both are approximately 2 hours’ drive away.

After the trip, there is an opportunity for you to visit the Whale Museum at Imbituba or to explore the beaches at Garopaba and have lunch at a local restaurant. Alternatively whale watching can be combined with the Florianópolis city tour.


ABSEILING
In the Armação bay area, at the Pedra do Tinguá, there are is a 132 feet (40m) long abseil 650 feet (200m) above sea level with a panoramic view from the South of Governador Celso Ramos all around the bay to the North of Florianópolis Island.
Distance from the Resort: 5 miles (8 Km).
Approximate duration: 2 Hours.


TREKKING I
Starting at Palmas, passing the beaches of Cipó, Ilhéus, Cicial and Mirante da Praia Grande.
Distance from the Resort: 1.5 miles (2.5 Km).
Approximate duration: 3 Hours.
Level: Medium (basic fitness).


TREKKING II
From Ganchos de Fora to the Praia de Fora and back.
Distance from the Resort: 500 yards (0.5 Km).
Approximate duration: 2.5 Hours.
Level: Easy.


TREKKING + MUSSELS
Leaving the Resort in a small boat, we visit a mussel farm where we can see what goes on there, followed by an oyster and scallop farm for a tasting session. We’ll land close to Praia de Fora, for a moment’s contemplation and return via footpaths to the Resort.
Overall duration: 3 Hours.
Level: Easy


HORSE RIDING I
Starting from the Palmas Parque Hotel, passing a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Praia Grande, and Cicial, Ilhéus, Cipó and Palmas beaches.
Distance from the Resort: 1.5 miles (2.5 Km).
Approximate duration: 2 Hours.
Level: Medium (basic fitness).


HORSE RIDING II
Starting from the Palmas Parque Hotel, passing a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Praia Grande and Cicial beach.
Distance from the Resort: 1.5 miles 2.5 Km.
Overall duration: 2 Hours.
Level: Medium (basic fitness).


** “Distance from the Resort” refers to the distance from each activity’s point of outset.

BIKE I - AMÂNCIO WATERFALL
The trip starts in Estiva, near to the main BR-101 road, still in the Governador Celso Ramos district. The route is entirely along little-used dirt roads in good condition, following the Estiva valley, passing pasture and paddy fields. We cycle through the village of Sorocaba, passing the centre and the church, and begin to climb towards the Amâncio waterfall, approximately two thirds of a mile (1 km) above. At the waterfall there is bathing and a powerful natural shower, before satisfying our appetites with a special picnic eaten on the stones in front of the waterfall. We return along the other side of the Estiva valley, along steeper roads, but with incredible views. Optionally, we can return the way we came.

Distance: 13 to 22 miles (22 to 35 km)
Duration: half day
Difficulty: low


BIKE 2 - COLONIES AND WATERFALL
This trip sets off from São Pedro de Alcântara the first colony founded by German immigrants in Santa Catarina. We will cycle along the Tropeiros route, what’s left of the trail along which immense herds of cattle were once driven from the South to the Southeast of the country. From there its downhill to Antônio Carlos, where fruit and vegetables are grown and traditional farm products made and where we’ll visit a sugar mill and cachaça distillery. We’ll follow dirt roads, getting to know the rural part of Biguaçu district, dotted with smallholdings and paddy fields. When we reach the Amâncio waterfall, we’ll stop for a snack and then cycle back along the Estiva valley through pastures against a backdrop of nearby hills.

Distance: 30 miles (50 km)
Duration: entire day
Difficulty: medium


BIKE 3 - WATERFALLS AND POTTERIES
The trip starts in Estiva, near to the main BR-101 road, still in the Governador Celso Ramos district. The route is entirely along little-used dirt roads in good condition, following the Estiva valley, passing pasture and paddy fields until we reach the Amâncio waterfall. After bathing and a special picnic on the stones in front of the falls, we cycle onwards, passing Timbé and Itinga. From here we follow the banks of the river Tijucas, from which clay is extracted to be used as raw material in the countless pottery works that we pass. After a pleasant ride along trails we arrive at the Cachoeiras do Fernandes Municipal Park, where we will visit the succession of waterfalls there.

Distance: 30 miles (50 km)
Duration: entire day
Difficulty: medium


BIKE 4 - BEACHES, TRAIL AND WATERFALL
Our adventure begins on the beach at Zimbros, a fishing village in Bombinhas. From there we follow a route that includes no less than ten beaches. A boat will help us around the most difficult stretches. At the end of the trail we stop for seafood snacks. Next we pass the sleepy little town of Tijucas and cross the river of the same name on the beautiful iron bridge. From here our route is rural once more, through pasture and plantations to the Amâncio waterfall. Here we’ll have an invigorating massage under the waterfall and a picnic. The remainder of the trip is through the Estiva valley, with its beautiful views, with the option of visiting the Holandês dairy and factory.

Distance: 35 to 45 miles (60 to 70 km)
Duration: entire day
Difficulty: high

Birdwatching at Ponta dos Ganchos Resort
In a pioneering initiative, Ponta dos Ganchos supports the project “Survey of Bird by location in Brazil” of the Environmental Program: “A última Arca de Noé” (www.aultimaarcadenoe.com) of the birdwatcher and scholar of birds Antônio Silveira. Antônio visited the Resort on October, 2007 where observed and catalogued 57 species of birds in the area.

If you like to observe the nature and especially the birds, check here the species that are found in the region.