Process of urban-touristic growing: study of Balneário Meia Praia, in the municipality of Itapema [Santa Catarina, Brazil]

Abstract

Itapema is located on the coast of the State of Santa Catarina, in southern Brazil, and its history points to a strong urban dynamic and growing tourist valorization. This process was particularly striking in Balneario de Meia Praia today characterized by densely constructive, vertical and seasonal occupation. Aiming to uncover this process, this paper studied and recognized forms of urban growth under way, the spatial structure of the Balneario de Meia Praia and ecological relationships established between human occupation and natural ecosystems. To this end, we analyzed the evolutionary of its urban layout and how it comes impacting on the natural structures. Underscoring the importance of those elements more permanent, which persist despite the intensity and speed of the changes ongoing, the study points to strong recommendations to an urban and environmental planning, towards building a future of a qualified city.