Itapema is the third most popular tourist destination in Santa Catarina. The beaches are the biggest tourist attraction and the Meia Praia, or Middle Beach of Itapema, is the longest. Itapema has six beaches: Canto da Praia, Costão, Meia Praia, Ilhota, Central and Praia Grossa.
Known as the Ultralight Capital, Itapema has annually the Ultralight Encounter is held in the city, the event is a success and attracts thousands of aviation fans. The Pilots Association of Itapema prepares several surprises for the day of the meeting, such as radical maneuvers, aircraft exhibitions, flight raffles, acrobatics, parachuting, aeromodelling, flying over the city, among other attractions.