Pirates and hidden treasure chests. That’s the legend of Praia da Guarda. Welcome to this beautiful place in Rio de Janeiro.
Praia da Guarda has a captivating history and unique charm. It is a place where nature and culture intertwine. Let me tell you about its secrets.
The name “Guarda do Embaú” has a curious origin. Locals say that centuries ago a pirate ship wrecked nearby. The pirates buried their treasure chests along the coast. Over time, the story of guarded treasure chests became a legend. This gave the area its current name.
However, “Embaú” has another possible origin. It comes from the Tupi-Guarani language. This was spoken by the Carijós Indians. They lived along the coast of Santa Catarina. According to the Tupi-Guarani dictionary, “embaú” could mean three things. It could mean “the drinking from the spout,” “the spout,” or “the last watering place.” It could also mean “the food” or “the drink.”
Praia da Guarda is located between Palhoça and Paulo Lopes. These are municipalities in Santa Catarina. To reach the beach, you must cross the Madre River. This river marks the border between the two municipalities. The beach itself lies south of the Madre River. So, it is technically in Paulo Lopes. The village of Guarda is north of the river in Palhoça. The area is part of the Serra do Tabuleiro State Park. About 1,000 people live here including merchants, artisans, fishermen, and surfers.
Surfing and tourism drive the local economy. Traditional fishing is also important. Between May and July, fishermen catch tainha. This provides another source of income.
In the 1970s, surfers discovered Praia da Guarda. Since then, it has been considered one of Brazil’s top ten surfing spots.
Praia da Guarda officially became the ninth World Surfing Reserve in 2016. It was the first in Brazil. The Save the Waves Coalition and the World Surfing Reserve Council recognized it. The Associação de Surfe e Preservação da Guarda do Embaú worked since 2013 to achieve this status.
Praia da Guarda is in a “restinga” ecosystem. The Madre River flows into the ocean here. The National Environmental Council considers the river special. Praia da Guarda sits where three protected areas meet. These are the Serra do Tabuleiro State Park, the Coastal Surrounding Area, and the Right Whale APA. UNESCO recognizes these areas as part of the Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve.
Imagine the salty air. Feel the soft sand beneath your feet. Hear the crashing waves. See the surfers riding the waves.
Praia da Guarda offers natural beauty. It also provides a glimpse into Brazil’s cultural and environmental heritage. As you leave, remember the legends of pirates and hidden treasure. But also, remember the importance of preserving this unique coastal paradise.