Parque da Galheta

      In the early 80's the conservationist movement began to effectively resist the real estate development which had already spoiled many of the most beautiful parts of the Ilha de Santa Catarina. As the result of the activity of these conservationists, law 3455/90 and Decree 698/94 established the Parque Municipal da Galheta. This law protects 150 hectares of the area. It prohibits construction and real estate development of any kind as well as camping, hunting, destruction of vegetation and the presence of vehicles and domestic animals.

Naturism

      Naturism has been practiced on the beach along the years and has been promoted by the Associação Amigos da Galheta - AGAL - a non-profit organization which plays an important part in protecting the park. It also played the leading role in obtaining official recognition of Galheta as an area where naturism may be practiced.

      The naturist philosopy envisions full accepatance of the human body as good. As there is nothing about the body which is wrong or embarrassing, nudity can be practiced in appropriate areas provided that respect is shown for others who may be present.

      A sense of responsibility for the preservation of nature is also an important part of the natuist lifestyle. Naturists have for many years acted as guardians of Galheta. Activities have included picking up debris on the beach, contesting illegal constructions and other illegal land uses, and the replanting of vegetation which has been destroyed.

      As the result of the persistent action by AGAL and the support of Florianópolis councilman Márcio de Souza, in 1997, naturism on Praia da Galheta was legalized by law CMF 195/97. Under the terms of this law optional nudism has become officially sanctioned.

Archeological Sites

      Praia da Galheta has archeological sites which indicate that humans have populated this area for about 6 thousand years.