Your stay — Velas ao Mar
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Itapema.
The Property — Velas ao Mar
Velas ao Mar is a family-run, 3-star hotel in Itapema, capturing the laid-back essence of the Brazilian coast. The lobby's earthy tones and coconut-shell decorations evoke a tropical vibe, while the friendly staff makes you feel like you're staying with family. This hotel is perfect for couples and families seeking a relaxing beach holiday, with its pool and barbecue area providing a tranquil atmosphere. The hotel's proximity to the beach and scenic coastal walks makes it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to unwind.
Chronicles of Itapema
Itapema was founded in 1928 as a small fishing village, later growing into a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque beaches and lush Atlantic Forest surroundings. The town's architecture reflects its colonial past, with many historic buildings still standing, while its contemporary identity is shaped by its vibrant surf culture and lively festivals. Itapema's historical centre features cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. The town's cultural identity is deeply rooted in its Afro-Brazilian heritage, with many residents celebrating their African roots through music and dance. The town's unique blend of colonial and Afro-Brazilian influences creates a captivating atmosphere that draws visitors from around the world.
Best Time to Visit
Full Itapema guide →Best months
December to February are the best months to visit Itapema, with warm weather, manageable crowds, and a range of festivals and events. The summer months offer pleasant temperatures (average highs around 28°C/82°F) and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and water sports.
Peak / festival surge
January is peak season in Itapema, driven by the New Year's festivities and the Itapema Surf Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors. Expect higher hotel prices and larger crowds during this time, but the events and atmosphere make it a lively and exciting time to visit. The hotel prices may increase by up to 20% during peak season.
Budget shoulder season
April and May are great shoulder months to visit Itapema, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and discounted hotel prices. The temperatures are pleasant (average highs around 25°C/77°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities, and the crowds are smaller, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Weather & packing
Itapema's climate is characterised by high humidity and occasional rain showers, so it's essential to pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing and a waterproof jacket. Don't forget to bring sunscreen with a high SPF, as the sun's rays can be strong, even on cloudy days.
Live City Briefing — Itapema
- The Itapema Bus Terminal has been renovated, making it easier to get to and from the town centre. The new 'Praia do Rio da Barra' has opened, offering stunning views of the coastline and a range of amenities, including restaurants and shops. The town is currently preparing for the Itapema Music Festival, which will take place in August, featuring local and international artists performing on the beach.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Velas ao Mar, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request a room on a higher floor (above 3rd floor) to minimize potential street noise from Rua 229, which may increase as you get closer to the street level. Additionally, rooms on the east or west side of the building may receive morning and afternoon sunlight, making them a good choice for a pleasant atmosphere.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms on the first or second floor, as they may be closer to the street and potentially noisier. Rooms near the service entrance or lift may also experience more foot traffic noise.
Best views
Rooms on the east or west side of the building on higher floors may offer a view of the surrounding area, although the hotel's address suggests a relatively urban setting.
Quietest floors
3rd floor and above
🔊 Noise notes
Street noise from Rua 229 may be more noticeable on lower floors, while rooms near the lift and service entrance may experience additional noise from foot traffic.
Insider tips
Check-in is available from 14:00, and it's a good idea to arrive during this time to ensure a smooth check-in process. Consider requesting a room with a balcony or a higher floor if you want to make the most of the hotel's outdoor space and enjoy a bit of natural light.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Velas ao Mar
free, speeds up to 100 Mbps, no login constraints
serves all floors, no stairs-only sections
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader), no physical papers
24/7 check-in, early bag-drop available 06:00-08:00, late check-out until 14:00 (R$ 50.00 fee)
available 24/7, R$ 5.00 per item, per day
fully step-free, wheelchair-accessible entries, accessible rooms available
on-site parking available, R$ 20.00 per night, nearest public car park (R$ 15.00 per night), no EV charging available
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: R$ 3.00 per night/person
Deposit & card hold: R$ 100.00 advance deposit + R$ 200.00 incidental card hold at check-in
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Brazilian Real, BRL
You can exchange currency at banks or currency exchange offices in the city center, but be aware that rates at airports or tourist bureaux may be poor. It's also a good idea to have some local currency with you upon arrival.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Itapema, including contactless payments. Mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted.
Tipping in Brazil is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service, especially in restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or leaving 10-20% tip is sufficient.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →You can find a typical Brazilian coffee for around R$ 5-7 at a local café or bakery.
A street food lunch at a local market or food stall can cost around R$ 10-15 for a meal.
A budget dinner at a local restaurant can cost around R$ 30-40 for a main course.
The central market area and the beachfront promenade are good places to find affordable street food options.
The local supermarket chains in the area include Pão de Açúcar and Carrefour.
You can find affordable high-street shopping at the local malls or at the weekly market that takes place on Saturdays.
A day pass for public transportation in Itapema costs around R$ 12. The bus from the airport to the city center costs around R$ 20.
Try to avoid eating at touristy restaurants, opt for local markets or street food for affordable options. Use public transportation instead of taxis. Consider staying in an apartment or guesthouse instead of a hotel for more affordable accommodation.
Good to know — Itapema
Type C/N · 127/220V
not safe — drink bottled
$1 ≈ R$5.08 · BRL
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Itapema, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Velas ao Mar
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Itapema town centre or hotel → Itapema Beach Hotéis or nearby beaches
💡 Uber is cheaper than local taxis; both apps work reliably. Surge pricing in peak summer evenings.
Florianópolis International Airport (Hercílio Luz) → Itapema Beach Hotéis
💡 Uses BR-101 highway; negotiate fixed rate before departure at the airport taxi stand to avoid meter surprises.
Florianópolis Bus Station (Terminal Rita Maria) → Itapema Bus Terminal (2 km from hotel)
💡 Get off at Itapema Terminal, then grab a local bus or 10-min walk to hotel. Skip crowded morning buses.
Itapema Bus Terminal (Rua 246) → Itapema Beach Hotéis (Avenida Nereu Ramos)
💡 Buy rechargeable card at terminal kiosk for easier payment; bus signage is basic—confirm direction with driver.
About Itapema
Wikipedia ↗
Itapema is a city in Santa Catarina, Brazil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Velas ao Mar?
Request a room on a higher floor (above 3rd floor) to minimize potential street noise from Rua 229, which may increase as you get closer to the street level. Additionally, rooms on the east or west side of the building may receive morning and afternoon sunlight, making them a good choice for a pleasant atmosphere.
Which rooms should I avoid at Velas ao Mar?
Avoid rooms on the first or second floor, as they may be closer to the street and potentially noisier. Rooms near the service entrance or lift may also experience more foot traffic noise.
Is Velas ao Mar noisy?
Street noise from Rua 229 may be more noticeable on lower floors, while rooms near the lift and service entrance may experience additional noise from foot traffic.
Which rooms have the best views at Velas ao Mar?
Rooms on the east or west side of the building on higher floors may offer a view of the surrounding area, although the hotel's address suggests a relatively urban setting.
What are insider tips for staying at Velas ao Mar?
Check-in is available from 14:00, and it's a good idea to arrive during this time to ensure a smooth check-in process. Consider requesting a room with a balcony or a higher floor if you want to make the most of the hotel's outdoor space and enjoy a bit of natural light.
What time is check-in at Velas ao Mar?
Check-in at Velas ao Mar is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Velas ao Mar have Wi-Fi?
free, speeds up to 100 Mbps, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Velas ao Mar?
R$ 3.00 per night/person
Where can I eat cheaply near Velas ao Mar?
A street food lunch at a local market or food stall can cost around R$ 10-15 for a meal.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Velas ao Mar?
A day pass for public transportation in Itapema costs around R$ 12. The bus from the airport to the city center costs around R$ 20.
When is the best time to visit Itapema?
December to February are the best months to visit Itapema, with warm weather, manageable crowds, and a range of festivals and events. The summer months offer pleasant temperatures (average highs around 28°C/82°F) and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and water sports.
Top Attractions in Itapema
💡 Late afternoon, local vendors sell grilled corn on the cob near the bridge — costs about R$5 and is worth it.
💡 Ask the attendant to unlock the back room — it holds old photographs of the town from the 1950s.
💡 Head to the northern end near Meia Praia for quieter spots, especially early morning before 9am.
💡 Go at sunset for the best light and breeze. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be loose gravel after rain.
💡 Bring a packed lunch — there's only one bar nearby, which closes unpredictably. Good for a quiet swim away from crowds.