The hype
Guests are obsessed with the privacy and the new 'fully hosted' concept where everything from food to boat tours is included.
Awasi Santa Catarina
$1,600+/ night
Book this if You want the ultra-private, all-inclusive luxury of an African safari lodge, but dropped onto a lush Brazilian peninsula.
Why People Love It
- Every villa gets a private guide and vehicle/boat for tailor-made excursions
- The 'Especial Esmeralda' bungalow is arguably the most exclusive hotel room in Brazil
- Breakfast is an all-day affair with a legendary 10-course tasting menu option
Quick Take: This is the former Ponta dos Ganchos resort, now supercharged with Awasi's 'private guide per room' concept—meaning it's no longer just about lying by the pool, but exploring the coast on your own terms.
Reviewed by @where2next4kris: I’ve never stayed anywhere this peaceful. Waking up to the ocean right at my feet was surreal, and having a private sauna and pool made it hard to ever leave the room. If you want total privacy and luxury, this is the place.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
It is astronomically expensive compared to other Brazilian beach resorts, and if you just want to sit on a beach and not do excursions, you might feel you're overpaying for the 'Awasi' guide service.
- You value privacy above all else (villas are invisible to each other)
- You hate planning and want a dedicated guide to handle every hike, boat ride, and snorkel trip
- You are a foodie who wants high-end Brazilian gastronomy included in the rate
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.9
- Housekeeping: Immaculate, twice-daily service with turndown.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless. High-end fixtures, double vanities, and often sea views from the tub.
- Maintenance: Perfect. The property was renovated in 2022 and is maintained to Relais & Châteaux standards.
- Linens & towels: Egyptian cotton sheets (600 thread count), plush robes, and Havaianas provided.
- Odors & scents: Fresh ocean breeze and forest scents; no mustiness.
Sleepability™
9.8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Ocean waves (soothing)
- Occasional boat engine in the distance
Before you book
Good to know
- The rate is now 'All-Inclusive' (Fully Hosted), covering meals, beverages, and private guided excursions.
- Transfers from Florianópolis (FLN) airport are usually included or can be arranged via helicopter.
- The 'private island' dinner is a separate, highly coveted booking—reserve it months in advance.
What to pack
- Havaianas are provided, but bring sturdy hiking shoes for the trails
- Sun protection (the Brazilian sun is intense)
- Smart casual dinner wear (it's relaxed but elegant)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Especial Esmeralda (The crown jewel: private gym, sauna, massive infinity pool, total isolation)
- Arvoredo Bungalow (Best value for a private pool + sauna combination)
- Vila Bungalow (Great balance of space and views)
Rooms to avoid
- Anhatomirim Bungalows (Entry level; they are split-level and lack the private heated pools found in higher categories)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would prefer a bungalow with maximum privacy and a heated plunge pool. If possible, please avoid the entry-level Anhatomirim category as we are looking for the full pool experience.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is this the same as Ponta dos Ganchos?
Yes, it was rebranded to Awasi Santa Catarina in late 2025/early 2026. The hard product (rooms) is largely the same, but the service model is now all-inclusive with private guides.
Are kids allowed?
Generally no. It is an adults-only property, though they sometimes make exceptions for teens (14+)—check directly.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, most private bungalow pools are heated, and there is a main indoor heated pool as well.
Do I need a car?
No. You will be picked up from the airport, and on-site transport is by electric cart. Your private guide drives you for excursions.
What is the food like?
Exceptional. Chef Daniela Damasceno serves high-end Brazilian cuisine, with a focus on local seafood (oysters, shrimp) and garden-fresh ingredients.
Is there a beach?
Yes, a small, private, protected beach with calm water, plus access to other beaches via boat.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask your private guide to take you to the local oyster farms—you can eat fresh oysters right out of the water.
- ✨
The breakfast tasting menu is not a buffet; it's a multi-course sit-down affair that you can order at 2 PM if you want.
- ✨
Book a sunset ritual at the 'Veleza' restaurant deck for the best views of the bay.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'tents' for massage are actually located at the very tip of the peninsula for extreme privacy.
💡You can watch a movie in a private cinema on-site if it rains.
💡The 'Anhatomirim' bungalows are nice but feel like a significant step down from the pool villas.
💡The rebrand to Awasi means you get a dedicated 4x4 and guide, which is rare for a beach resort.
💡Cell service can be spotty in the dense forest areas, but Wi-Fi is solid in the rooms.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Awasi Santa Catarina is located and what's nearby.