Desafio 28 Praias - Costa Norte

The Desafio 28 Praias 2026 – Costa Norte Edition is one of Brazil's most challenging and scenic trail running competitions, scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Ubatuba, São Paulo. This event is famous for its diverse terrain, requiring runners to navigate soft and hard sand, technical single-track trails, asphalt, and river crossings. The "North Coast" stage is particularly renowned for its technical difficulty, especially the stretch between Praia do Félix and Itamambuca. Participants can compete individually (Solo) or in relay teams (Duos, Quartets, or Quintets), all finishing at the iconic Praia Grande.

Logistics and Athlete Requirements

Kit collection takes place at the finish arena on Praia Grande on April 23 and 24; notably, there is no kit delivery on race day. For 42km and 21km Solo athletes, a medical certificate stamped by a physician (valid for 12 months) is mandatory for participation. The event utilizes a "Start Transfer" service, which athletes are encouraged to purchase in advance to reach the various starting points from the main hub. The finish line is strictly regulated with a 10-hour time limit, closing the event at 5:00 PM. High-grip trail shoes are strongly recommended due to technical coastal sections and potentially slippery river crossings.

Regional and Community Context

Ubatuba (11680-000) is a major coastal city in the state of São Paulo, with an estimated population of 96,000 residents in 2026. Known as the "Surf Capital of São Paulo," the city contains over 100 beaches and is largely protected by the Serra do Mar State Park. The local economy is heavily reliant on eco-tourism and nautical activities, with the "Desafio 28 Praias" serving as one of its premier annual sporting events. The community supports a strong environmental preservation ethos, and the race organizers maintain a low-impact signaling system to protect the delicate Atlantic Forest and coastal ecosystems.

The geography of the North Coast stage is defined by its "costeiras" (rocky shores) and dramatic elevation changes between beaches. The median age in Ubatuba is 35.8 years, reflecting a balanced demographic of active young professionals and established residents. This race represents a significant intersection of high-performance athletics and regional tourism, drawing thousands of visitors to the region. By crossing through protected areas and private reserves, the event showcases Ubatuba's commitment to sustainable sports tourism while providing a world-class challenge for trail runners.