Trilha Saquinho do Rio Vermelho
Very regular paths with not many rocks. Amazing views of Ratones, Lagoa da Conceição, Rio Vermelho and Moçambique neighborhoods.
BEACHES & SURFING
If you’re looking for a place where you can have a great time surfing all year long, Florianopolis is the perfect city for you. The beaches offer consistent waves and beautiful views. There are places for beginners to advanced and professional surfers. Websites and the local radio disseminate news about the sea and conditions for surfing everyday so you can tune in to the best options.
BEACHES
east
Mole Beach
A scenic beach with rough waters. It’s very popular for surfing and frequented by the LGBT community because of the Bar do Deca. It’s also a great place to practice paragliding and kitesurfing. It has great infrastructure, ranging from public parking to showers and nearby restaurants. Located 15 km from downtown.
north
Jurerê Beach
Jurerê is a very popular, beautiful beach with clear, warm and calm waters. It is great for families, children, and anyone who enjoys water sports. It has an excellent infrastructure: shopping, markets, restaurants, kiosks, lodges and hotels. Located about 23 km from downtown.
south
Ilha do Campeche Beach
About 2 km from Campeche Beach, you’ll find Campeche Island, surrounded by crystal clear water and offering snorkel options. Located 17 km from downtown, it is only accessible by boat.
north
Ingleses Beach
Ingleses is a wonderful beach is 5 km long, framed by a blue sea, but not many waves. You can see orcas playing in the sea in the winter. There is an excellent infrastructure with many hotels, shops, bars and restaurants, as well as sandboarding options and even boat trips. Located 36 km from downtown.
south
Campeche Beach
Campeche is a beautiful beach. Because of its rough waters, it is great for surfers and kitesurfers. Although mostly visited by young people, it is also family friendly. Located 15 km from downtown.
east
Santinho Beach
A beautiful beach, stretching 2.5 km, with clear and rough waters, excellent for surfing. Not far from the beach is the Outdoor Archaeological Museum, well worth a visit. Located 40 km from downtown.
mainland
Saudade Beach
It is a calm, small and narrow beach, usually very crowded. Swimming is only recommended depending on the season. Located 5 km from downtown.
mainland
Itaguaçu Beach
The sea is not suitable for swimming, but the beach is very scenic and great for friends to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Located 7 km from downtown.
mainland
Bom Abrigo Beach
A beautiful beach to enjoy a sunset or to spend an afternoon out with friends. Not appropriate for swimming or surfing.
east
Joaquina Beach
This beach, 3.5 km long, is known for its beauty and perfect conditions for surfing. It has an excellent infrastructure, with chair renting services, bars, restaurants, showers and a parking area. Located 17 km from downtown.
east
Moçambique Beach
Part of the Rio Vermelho State Park, this 12.5 km beach offers open water swimming. It’s excellent for both surfing and relaxing. There’s not a great deal of infrastructure and it is quite isolated; therefore, attention should be paid to one’s car and belongings. Located 35 km from downtown.
east
Barra da Lagoa Beach
One of the most popular beaches, it has a great tourist infrastructure with restaurants, shops, chair renting services. It’s great for swimming, easy surfing and leisure activities. The sand is very clear and fine. It has 650 meters and changes to the Moçambique Beach. The beach is 20 km from downtown.
east
Galheta Beach
Galheta is a fun beach, great for surfers and nature lovers. It can only be reached on foot down a trail. It has no gastronomic services and is called a ‘virgin beach’. This beach is the only nudist beach in the area. Located approximately 20 km from downtown.
north
Santo Antônio de Lisboa Beach
Characterized by very calm and warm waters, it’s popular among fishermen. It is typically used for water sports, but not for swimming or suntanning. It’s a very touristic place for beachgoers of the Azorean culture, with bars and restaurants nearby. Located 14 km from downtown.
north
Sambaqui Beach
Sambaqui is a very traditional fishing area with calm waters. It has several bars and great restaurants nearby. Located 18 km from downtown.
north
Brava Beach
This beach is a 1.5 km long cove. It’s particularly suitable for surfers who like waves created by often quite agitated waters. Sometimes the sea is calmer and allows for safe swimming. Also good for practicing water sports. It has a great infrastructure and a panoramic view from the top of the hill. Located 38 km from downtown.
north
Lagoinha de Ponta das Canas Beach
A beautiful and small cove surrounded by hills and calm waters. Perfect for families and children. It has good infrastructure, with bars, hotels and restaurants. Located 33 km from downtown.
north
Ponta das Canas Beach
This tranquil beach is 1.9 kilometers long. Popular among fishermen and great for water sports. It has a good infrastructure, with restaurants, bars and hotels. Located 34 km from downtown.
north
Cachoeira do Bom Jesus Beach
The white, fine sand on this 3-km long beach is good for walking and exercising. The waves are mild. It has a great infrastructure with nearby restaurant, bars, hotels and shops. Located 27 kilometers from downtown.
north
Forte Beach
This beach is similar to Daniela Beach, with calm, clean and warm waters. Very family friendly, and great for swimming and relaxing. The access to the beach is difficult. There are a few restaurants and bars as well as a chair renting service. Beachgoers can visit a fortress just a short walk from the beach. Located 25 km from downtown.
north
Daniela Beach
This family friendly beach is 3 km long. It has very calm waters that are very suitable for swimming and fishing. Not many services and eating establishments nearby, but there are a few chair renting services and some small markets. Located 25 km from downtown.
north
Lagoinha Beach
This 800-meter long, family friendly beach is scenic and tranquil, with clear waters. Located 34 km from downtown.
north
Canasvieiras Beach
The sea in Canasvieiras is clear green, warm, and calm. The sand is white and very thin along this 2 km beach. It has an excellent infrastructure with hotels, kiosks and restaurants. It’s a hotspot for parties. Located 27 km from downtown.
north
Cacupé Beach
It’s a beach where fishing and oyster farming is still traditional and small scaled. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy a nice meal and a drink. Even though it’s a beautiful beach, it’s not common to see people swimming or sunbathing.
south
Tapera Beach
It’s a family friendly beach and a good place to relax, with calm and cold waters and thick sand. It is 1.5 km long and has bars right on the beach. Located 32 km from downtown.
south
Solidão Beach
A stunning beach with a waterfall and a natural pool, excellent for swimming and families. Located 30 km from downtown.
south
Açores Beach
It is a nice beach with cooler water, good for surfing, and on days with little wind, swimming. You will find some infrastructure like chair renting services but not many bars or restaurants. It is located 15 km from downtown.
south
Ribeirão da Ilha Beach
This island has several small beaches, most of them with very calm water and thick sand. It’s excellent for tours, activities, eating at great restaurants, and visiting this historical heritage. Located 27 km from downtown.
south
Lagoinha do Leste Beach
This beautiful beach can only be reached on foot. It takes 2 hours along a hiking trail if leaving from Pântano do Sul. From Matadeiro, another trail takes 4 hours. There is a boat service in the summer but rides must be booked in advance. Because of the difficult access, there aren’t any bars or restaurants. The sea is quite rough, but there is a great place for camping around a small lagoon. Located 26 km from downtown.
south
Morro das Pedras Beach
The sea is very rough and swimming is not recommended, but it’s very popular among surfers. While there, visit the “Retreat House of the Jesuits”, open during mass hours. The building was made of stones taken from the area. There is a beautiful view of Armação Beach and Peri lake. Located 22 km from downtown.
south
Matadeiro Beach
This beach is next to Armação Beach. The only way to access it is on foot. It is an excellent place for surfing and sand sports. It has many bars nearby although it’s almost a deserted beach. It turns into a natural pool on days when the wind blows from the south. Located 24 km from downtown.
south
Naufragados Beach
To reach this beach you have to travel 40 km from downtown and then walk down a 3 km trail. The beach is 1.5 km long, with white sand and rough sea. It’s much visited by those who prefer a wild landscape.
south
Pântano do Sul Beach
Pântano do Sul has a calm and clear sea and many restaurants, mainly seafood, nearby. It’s 2.35 km long, and it is the most traditional fishing beach in Santa Catarina. The beach is known for the many burrows in the sand in the wash zone. Located 28 km away from downtown.
south
Armação Beach
One of the most popular beaches, it is approximately 650 meters long and extends to Moçambique Beach. It has a great tourist infrastructure with restaurants, shops, chair renting services. It’s great for swimming, easy surfing and leisure activities. The sand is very fine and soft. Located 20 km from downtown.
south
Caieira da Barra do Sul Beach
A beautiful, calm and deep blue sea. Very family friendly and a great place to relax. Located around 40 km from downtown and definitely worth the trip.
BEST BEACHES FOR SURFING
south
Campeche
When a south swell reaches this beach, it creates the perfect condition for experienced surfers. Only the southern beach of Campeche is suitable for beginners. Wave Type: Beachbreak peaks, sandbar Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: NW Suitable for: experienced surfers
south
Armação
It is a beach with white sand, clear water and rough sea. It’s suitable for beginners and advanced surfers with stronger waves more far north. It’s a beach-break with a sandy seabed and an uneven reef. Wave Type: Beachbreak Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: NW Suitable for: all surfers
south
Lagoinha do Leste
Only accessible by those willing to hike 2 hours or to take a boat if booking in advance and depending on wave conditions. It’s not only a beautiful beach, but also an excellent surfing spot with strong waves. Wave Type: Beachbreak peaks, hollow lefts and rights Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: NW Suitable for: all surfers
south
Matadeiro
You can only get to the Matadeiro Beach on foot; however, it’s not a long walk. It is mostly deserted. The strong left breaking short waves at the mouth of Matadeiro are particularly good, but also quite volatile. Wave Type: Rivermouth left Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: SW Suitable for: experienced surfers
south
Naufragados
This is a hard beach to reach. You can get there by walking down a 3-km-long trail, or by boat if booking in advance and depending on the waves conditions. All the hard work is well worth it because this is one of the best beaches for surfing if you’re an experienced surfer. You will find a high swell resistance and good hollow waves. Wave Type: Beachbreak peaks Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: NE Suitable for: experienced surfer
east
Barra da Lagoa
This beach is ideal for beginners, with several surf schools available. The waves have very consistent swells and are generally smaller and easier to ride than elsewhere. Wave Type: Exposed beach break Size of Swells: 3 to 5 ft Best wind direction: WSW Suitable for: all surfers
east
Galheta
Next to Mole Beach, it offers good wave conditions protected by a bay from the wind. The most suitable season to surf is during winter when the waves are best. This place is deserted. Wave Type: Beachbreak peaks, hollow lefts and rights Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: N Suitable for: all surfers
east
Joaquina
Famous for the ASP World Tour contest. It’s an exposed beach break, loved by the locals for its consistent ground swells, though the best waves are found in the winter. Wave Type: Left powerful, beachbreak peaks, sandbar Size of the Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: NW Suitable for: beginners and experienced surfers depending on conditions
north
Ingleses
The beach break is quite inconsistent for surfing. You will only find good surfing conditions on the far left area. It’s very popular, so it’s often crowded, even though it is not a surfers’ paradise. Wave Type: Beach break Size of Swells: 1 to 6 ft Best wind direction: SW Suitable for: all surfers
north
Santinho
Santinho beach can be easily accessed and is considered to be the best one for surfing in the north. It’s a beach-break with a sandy seabed; there are good waves that mostly extend to the left. Wave Type: Leftover reef flushed. Size of Swells: 3 to 8 ft Best wind direction: N Suitable for: experienced surfers
north
Brava
A beautiful and agitated beach break with a sandy seabed. It has very consistent great waves from both sides, right and left. Wave Type: Sandbar break Size of Swells: 1 to 8 ft Best wind direction: W Suitable for: experienced surfers
south
Morro das Pedras
Very popular among surfers because of the rough sea. There are resistant right hand waves and it’s a point-break beach. The waves start to break near the rocks, so it’s not recommended for beginners. Wave Type: Right, flushed with reef Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: NW Suitable for: experienced surfers
east
Moçambique
The longest beach of Florianópolis, Moçambique is known for being the surfers get away. It’s very peaceful and never crowded. The beach has strong waves. The northern end is “almost walled up waves” and best suited for surfing. Wave Type: Beachbreak peaks Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: NW Suitable for: all surfers
east
Mole
This is an exposed beach break with the south winds offering some of the best waves, though there are great ground swells too. Thanks to the consistently good conditions, and both left and right hand breaks, this is a popular surf beach known for annually hosting the World Qualifying Tour. Wave Type: Hollow lefts and rights, beachbreak peaks, sandbar Size of Swells: 3 – 8 ft Best wind direction: S Suitable for: beginners and experienced surfers depending on conditions
AMUSEMENT PARKS
Beto Carreiro
Approximately a two-hour drive from Florianópolis, this is definitely the best amusement park in the country and the 6th best Amusement Park of the world! Beto Carreiro is located in Penha and has around 100 attractions, with rides that offer great shots of adrenaline, and lower-key attractions. This park is the perfect place to take families and friends. From the easygoing carousel to the free fall tower, there will be a perfect attraction for each visitor. Visitors may also enjoy the zoo as well as special shows with ferraris, cartoons, experiences with dinosaurs, and a train crossing the old west. You can buy a day pass for one, two or three days on the amusement park website or at the park, although it’s a lot cheaper online. Admission is free on your birthday.
Aqua Show Park
Let’s be honest, whether you’re 4 or 40 years old, a water park is never a bad idea. Aqua Show Park has a cool infrastructure and attractions of all kinds, including moderate and extreme water-slides for kids. With over 30 attractions, the park is a great way to spend a sunny day with your family and friends. It’s also very close to one of the best beaches in Floripa, Praia dos Ingleses, in case you want to stop by.
Located in the North area, the aquatic park is open from November to April. To get there you can drive, use an Uber or take a bus. There’s a parking lot and a bus stop within walking distance.
ZOOS & WILDLIFE
While in Florianópolis, enjoy its rich nature in parks, protected areas, and around lakes. This city boasts of having 400 bird and 100 mammal species. There are also friendly yellow caymans in specific wetland areas, such as the Parque Ecológico do Córrego Grande, where you can also see little monkeys called ‘saguis’. Florianópolis does not have a zoo, but it has some nice projects where you can closely and safely watch wild local animals. In Pomerode, less than a 2-hour drive, you can find a complete zoo and have a great falconry experience too.
Falconry with Michel Velem
In Pomerode, about a 2-hour drive from Florianópolis, you can have a close experience with raptors and feel their power and energy when they fly back toward you. The millennial activity of falconry is recognised by UNESCO as a World Intangible Heritage. It has gained more adepts all over the world aiming at conservation and environmental education.
In Pomerode, you can have a great experience closely interacting with the raptors and getting to know more about the history of falconry. Michel Velem is an expert that will make sure you have the best moments with hawks, eagles and owls. This activity must be previously booked with Michel on Facebook or Tripadvisor.
Pomerode Zoo
The Pomerode Zoo is located downtown in the Pomerode city and surrounded by restaurants and stores. With more than 1,300 animals of 225 species, the Pomerode Zoo is surely a great experience for all ages. The zoo has an area of 46,000 m² . It shelters animals from all over the world, including the African big five and endemic Brazilian species.
One of the main attractions is an enclosure in which you enter and interact with many birds. The zoo has a photography shop, a souvenir shop, a snack bar, a parking lot, and a visitor center with a great lookout point and environmental educational activities. They have a captivity breeding program, and they also rescue, rehabilitate and release animals that are victims of illegal wildlife trade. The zoo is open everyday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Schools can have guided visits.
Rio Vermelho Rescue Center
The Rio Vermelho Rescue Center is located inside the Rio Vermelho State Park and on the border of Lagoa da Conceição. This center receives about 3,000 animals (mostly birds) that are victims of illegal wildlife trade every year. Their work is to rehabilitate and release these birds back to nature. The birds that cannot be released stay in captivity and you can visit them. The animals kept at the center stay in proper enclosures spread out along a handicapped-accessible trail. Visitors can enter one enclosure and interact with many birds. The visits are free and guided by professionals. You can visit the center from 10 am to 5 pm and from Tuesday to Sunday. Each group with a maximum of 30 people leaves every 30 minutes. This center has a picnic site. There is a camping site nearby.
Lontra Project
Located in the heart of Lagoa do Peri Park, the Lontra Project focus on the conservation, scientific research, rehabilitation and reintroduction of Neotropical and giant otters (Lontra longicaudisand Pteronura brasiliensis). In2013, the Lontra Project also opened a research center at Aquidauana in the Brazilian Pantanal. In 2017, the project had the first ever Neotropical otter babies born in captivity, which was a great step for the conservation of this species. The Lontra Project has a visitor center and a volunteer program that is open 8 am to 6 pm from Monday to Friday. On weekends it’s open only for those who book a visit.
Tamar Turtle Project
A trip to the fishing village of Barra da Lagoa offers you the opportunity to learn about the most successful conservation project in Brazil: the Tamar Project (Projeto Tamar). You get to know the turtle species that inhabit the Brazilian coast and to watch their behavior in the pools. Every week during the summer, the Tamar Project releases a rescued turtle to the sea and you can participate in the rescue. Tamar is an abbreviation for ‘Tartaruga Marinha,’ translated as ‘sea turtle’. The successful project was launched in 1980 by IBAMA, the Brazilian Environmental Protection agency, and it is now supported by an NGO. The aim is to ensure the existence of five endangered sea turtle species by rescuing and recovering individual turtles, establishing protected breeding sites, promoting a broad-based environmental education campaign, and developing alternative income sources for locals. This center has a souvenir shop.
SPORTS
With hundreds of fitness and crossfit centers, walking tracks, sports courts, and outdoor exercise parks, you can find a place to exercise everywhere. There are plenty of soccer, tennis, volleyball and handball schools. It’s very easy to find someone to walk or run with you on the beautiful Avenida Beira-Mar. If you prefer to be indoors, there are all kinds of clubs, such as shooting, airsoft, paintball, archery, horse riding and horse jumping. Here we list some sports in Florianópolis and where to practice them:
north
Golf
In Florianópolis, there is one main golf course called Costão Golf Club, located near the beach in the Ingleses neighborhood. In addition to its fascinating setting, the club also has a condo, a restaurant, and a pro shop. Here you can learn and practice golf, take part in tournaments and play on the best challenging courses.
Windsurf
The ideal beaches to windsurf have calmer seas.
For course racing:
- Lagoa da Conceição
- Praia de Jurerê
- Ponta das Canas
- Praia de Canasvieiras
- Praia do Campeche
- Praia do Moçambique
- Praia Joaquina
- Praia Mole
Kitesurf
Florianópolis is one of the best spots for kitesurfing in Brazil for beginners and experienced kitesurfers. The best season to practice this sport is spring, but the conditions are good for kitesurfing almost all year long.
- Lagoa da Conceição
- Praia Mole
- Praia do Campeche
Paragliding
For those wishing to fly over beautiful Florianópolis and see everything from a different perspective, paragliding is perfect. The best months to practice this sport are from November to April.
- Praia Mole
- Praia Brava
- Lagoa da Conceição
- Palhoça (1 hour away from Florianópolis)
- Santo Amaro da Imperatriz (1.5 hour away from Florianópolis)
Sandboarding
Sandboarding is a great option if you are looking for something fun, easy and new. There are spots all over the Dunes of Joaquina where you can try it.
- Dunes of Joaquina
- Dunes of Santinho
Kayaking
Everywhere in Florianópolis you can go kayaking to relax and enjoy the amazing nature and wildlife surrounding you as well as to exercise. There are companies renting kayaks at the beaches and at Lagoa da Conceição.
- Santo Antônio de Lisboa
- Barra da Lagoa
- Lagoa da Conceição
Horse Riding
You can find farms offering free style horse riding on the beach and on trails at night, or the usual farm-like ride during the day. For professionals and anyone who likes classical style, there is an equestrian center with horse riding, dressage and jumping classes in Saco Grande.
- Saco Grande
- Rio Vermelho
- Praia do Moçambique
- Santo Amaro da Imperatriz (1.5 hour away from Florianópolis)
Canyoning
Florianópolis offers a variety of beautiful landscapes that you can discover in a different way, by canyoning. There are spots for beginners to experts. It’s perfect for a warm day, since after the adventure, you can jump into refreshing water and relax.
- Praia Gravatá
- Praia Grande
- Costa da Aranha
Rafting
Rafting is the perfect water sport for those who enjoy an exciting time with friends. You become a part of the nature around you, while having a breathtaking experience.
- Santo Amaro da Imperatriz (1.5 hour away from Florianópolis)
Bicycle Tours
The landscape diversity and the numerous paths and offroad bike trails offer great conditions for everyone who wishes to ride a bike to work, school, exercise or adventure. This region is a common landscape for the stages of the regional, national and international championships in the downhill and cross-country styles, as well as part of the Ironman Brazil. Here are some companies you can rent bikes from and have bike tours:
- Floripa Bike Tour
- Caminhos do Sertão
Boat trip
The beautiful sea and islands found all around Florianópolis allow you to enjoy a boat trip with friends and family. There are many ways to have an unique experience. Some boats have parties, music and pirates onboard while others are quieter so you can enjoy the sounds of nature. The most popular boat trip is to Anhatomirim and the Ratones Grande Island where you can learn about the historic wars between the Spanish and the Portuguese for the colonization of South America.
- Canasvieiras
- Lagoa da Conceição
- Praia do Forte
- Beira-mar Norte
Scuba Diving
You can find scuba diving options on the small islands near the beaches of Floripa. These islands are only accessible by boat. The two spots for snorkeling in Florianópolis are Ingleses and Armação. However, two cities nearby, Bombinhas and Porto Belo, also have incredible coasts to go snorkeling.
- Ilha do Campeche - one boat leaves from Armação beach and takes around 30 minutes to get there; while the second one leaves from Campeche beach and takes around 15 minutes; and there is a third spot in Barra da Lagoa from where the boats take around 1h20min to get there.
- Ilha Arvoredo - the boat leaves from Canasvieiras beach or from Ponta das Canas, depending on the company, and takes around 40 minutes to get there. There are also boats leaving from Bombinhas and Porto Belo.
- Ilha do Xavier - the boat leaves from Barra da Lagoa.
TRAILS & LOOKOUT POINTS
Looking for an adventure and breathtaking views? Explore nature and find the perfect hiking trails for you!
EASY TRAILS
east
Easy Trail
4 hours
north
Trilha do Forte
Amazing views of Jurerê, Daniela, the bay, and the islands of Ratones and Anhatomirim. You can also visit the Fortress of São José da Ponta Grossa.
Easy Trail
1 hour
east
Trilha Sertão do Assopro
From the Lagoa lookout point, walk through a local neighborhood to an old hang-gliding take-off spot with an amazing view, and then through the Atlantic Forest to Costa da Lagoa.
Easy Trail
4 hours
south
Trilha da Restinga
Walk through the local neighborhood of ‘manezinhos’ to see historic houses and the Lontra Project ('the Otter Project').
Easy Trail
2 hours
south
Easy Trail
3 hours
north
Trilha do Rio do Braz
Very easy walking in the Sapiens Park with towers and bridges. It’s handicapped accessible. It’s open from 1 to 7 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Easy Trail
30 minutes
city center
Trilha do Parque do Córrego Grande
Very easy walking in the Parque Ecológico do Córrego Grande. It's disabled-friendly. Opens everyday from 8am to 6pm.
Easy Trail
30 minutes
north
Estrada Antiga da Daniela
The entrance to this path bordered by restinga vegetation, swamps and a lake is in front of a Police Station.
Easy Trail
30 minutes
east
Easy Trail
20 minutes
south
Trilha Naufragados
You will enjoy a panoramic view of the area, the beach, a natural water fountain, and some sites of historical importance.
Easy Trail
50 minutes
east
Easy Trail
30 minutes
north
Trilha Ratones até Lagoa da Conceição
You will see a lagoon, some yellow caymans, and enjoy a panoramic view of the area.
Easy Trail
30 minutes
city center
Easy Trail
20 minutes
MEDIUM TRAILS
city center
Trilha Morro da Antena
Also known as ‘Trilha do Maciço da Costeira’. It is very hard climbing up the first half because of loose rocks, but later it gets easier. There are wonderful views of Baía Sul and the Santa Mônica Valley in some lookout points.
Medium Trail
4 hours
east
Trilha Monte Verde – Costa da Lagoa
Nice views while crossing the hills in the Atlantic Forest to Costa da Lagoa. When looking for information about this trail in the internet be aware that most sites say that the trail should be started in Servidão Olga Lacerda, but we say it should be started in Rua Mané Vicente, if you want a longer hike.
Medium Trail
3h 30 minutes
mainland
Trilha Rota das Cachoeiras
At 221 km away from Florianópolis, this trail in the city of Corupá takes you through 14 waterfalls and lakes in the Atlantic forest ending in a breathtaking 125-meters high waterfall.
Medium Trail
2 hours
north
Trilha Caminho do Rei
Dating from imperial time in the northern hills, the trail crosses the Atlantic Forest and provides many panoramic views.
Medium Trail
3 hours
north
Trilha do Lamim
Between Jurerê and Canasvieiras, this paved trail requires a lot of energy because it goes up and down.
Medium Trail
30 minutes
north
Medium Trail
2h 30 minutes
north
Medium Trail
3 hours
east
Trilha Caminho da Costa
You will see a lagoon, a waterfall, a river, a beach, a natural water fountain, enjoy panoramic views, and can go on a boat trip.
Medium Trail
4 hours
east
Trilha Barra da Lagoa até Galheta
You will enjoy a panoramic view of the area, and see a beach, sites of historical importance, colonial houses, rupestrian inscriptions, a river and a natural water fountain.
Medium Trail
2 hours
HARD TRAILS
mainland
Trilha do Cambirela
One of the hardest trails in the area. It ends at the top of Cambirela Mountain at the mainland, approximately 1,043 meters high. From this site, you can view all the islands around. There are three trails and each takes around 2 hours to hike up the mountain and 1h 30 minutes to hike down.
Hard Trail
3h 30 minutes
south
Trilha Ponta do Passo
It connects the trails ‘Trilha da Praia do Saquinho’ and ‘Trilha de Naufragados’. You have to add the length of time to cross these other trails to the expected length of time to cross the area. Don’t do it without preparation. You’ll cross the coast and the Atlantic forest.
Hard Trail
4 hours
mainland
Trilha da Pedra Branca
Breathtaking views of the whole Island from north to south, and the cities of São José, Palhoça and Santo Amaro da Imperatriz.
Hard Trail
6 hours
south
Trilha do Leopardo
It is very challenging to hike all these trails one after another: ‘Trilha Matadeiro-Lagoinha do Leste’ followed by ‘Trilha Lagoinha do Leste’, ‘Trilha Cachoeira da Solidão’, ‘Trilha da Praia do Saquinho’ and ‘Trilha de Naufragados’. Don’t do it without proper equipment and preparation.
Hard Trail
12 hours
south
Trilha da Gurita
As you hike from Lagoa do Peri to Ribeirão da Ilha, you will see a lagoon, alligators, a waterfall, a river, a beach, a natural water fountain, and you will enjoy a panoramic view of the area.
Hard Trail
3h 30 minutes
south
Trilha Lagoinha do Leste
You will see a lagoon, a beach, a natural water fountain, and you will enjoy a panoramic view a panoramic view of the area.
Hard Trail
2h50 minutes
LOOKOUT POINTS
We’ve already mentioned, maybe a hundred times, that Florianópolis is beautiful, but we just can’t let you forget it. The good news is that Floripa has plenty of places where you can check out all that beauty and fall in love just as we have. Stunning lookout points are spread all around the city.
south
Mirante do Morro das Pedras
This lookout point in southern Florianópolis has a breathtaking view of Armação beach and Lagoa do Peri. It is easily accessible and it has a big parking lot. It is next to the Casa de Retiros Vila Fátima, a catholic retreat. It is only open to the public during service hours.
city center
Mirante do Morro da Cruz
Inaugurated in 1984, it is possibly one of the oldest lookout points in Florianópolis. It lies at the top of a mountain at the city center where the TV stations are located. You will have a panoramic view of the town, including the North and South bay, three bridges, and the mainland. Avoid visiting it at night.
north
Mirante da Praia Brava
This lookout point can be found on the road to Brava beach. The view is incredible! It has a parking lot and a restaurant, so you can have a fun time here with your friends or family.
east
Mirante Ponto de Vista
Located between Mole beach and Lagoa da Conceição, this is one of the best lookout point to visit in the area. It has all the touristic infrastructure, with a parking lot, restaurants, a coffee shop and some stores. It has an amazing panoramic view of the site and it’s really worth the visit. You will definitely fall in love with this place.
east
Mirante do Morro da Lagoa
This lookout point is very popular, easy to access and offers a great infrastructure with a big parking lot so you can stay as long as you wish. It is also very clean and in great condition. Here you will get a stunning panoramic view of the Lagoa da Conceição, the dunes and even the sea. You also get a chance to take a picture of the famous “Sou bem Floripa” stature.
city center
Mirante Praça Hercílio Luz
This lookout point offers an awesome view of the bridges from the Hercílio Luz Park. An amazing place to visit at sunset, as it is really enchanting! It’s also one of the best places to photograph one of the famous touristic spots in Florianópolis: the Hercílio Luz Bridge.
BARS & CLUBS
Florianópolis has been rightfully nominated the “Party Destination of the Year” by The New York Times. Regardless of the day of the week, you can be sure there is a great party around, and even if you aren’t a fan of clubs, there are bars all over that will guarantee you can have a great time drinking and enjoying a nice conversation! Locals aren’t the only ones who love the way that Florianópolis parties. Famous people from all around the world have been here and great artists played on the city’s stages and fell in love with Florianópolis. Maybe you can join David Guetta, Bob Sinclar, Fat Boy Slim, Axwell, Lindsay Lohan, Neymar, Gustavo Kuerten, Rodrigo Santoro and Gisele Bündchen--all of them, and many others, came here to have a great time!
ELECTRONIC MUSIC
STAGE MUSIC PARK
These mix of clubs owns a lot of parties these are the most relevants.
ESPAÇO BEIRAMAR
These mix of clubs owns a lot of parties these are the most relevants.
These mix of clubs owns a lot of parties these are the most relevant.
ALTERNATIVE
BARS
Whatever day or time, there is always an excuse to go for a drink, snacks and a good chat.
Check out some of the best bars in town and find the perfect one for you.
nearby
Café com Arte BC
Rua Monteiro Lobato, 28 - Balnerário Camboriú Av. Atlântica, 1960 - Balnerário Camboriú
EVENTS & CINEMA
There are parties and cultural events happening all the time in Florianopolis. Some of them are random, almost an experiment; others are a tradition every week, every month, or every year. It's easy for you to get organized and experience a great time out there. Here are some interesting events for you to keep in mind:
EVENTS
Carnival
If there is something Brazilians are known for, is how to promote a Carnival. It’s a week that can only be defined as the best moment of people’s lives. A lot of free attractions are offered to everyone on street and clubs all over the city. Music and party style goes from traditional carnival to rock and electronic. There are parties for everyone. Besides the street festivals and carnival street blocks, the Carnival Parade happens at the Passarela Nego Quirido.
Ironman
If you like watching real heroes, that’s for you! The biggest triathlon event in the world happens right here, every year. Athletes can sign up to participate. The event challenges them to swim for 3.8 km (2.4 miles) in Jurerê, cycle for 180.2 km (112 miles) in the city, and last, but definitely not least, to run for 42.4 km (26 miles) on a breathtaking (literally) track.
Winter Play
To commemorate the start of austral winter, this event happens every year since 2004 in June, and is simply incredible. Three days of amazing parties in Jurerê and attracts even internationally famous celebrities, like Neymar. Definitely a must go.
RD Summit
This event is for those interested in digital marketing and business. A lot of talks make sure that everyone learns a lot while also having fun. People from all over the world come to Florianópolis for this incredible event. The event happens annually around November.
Sounds in da City
Music occupies a leading role in Florianópolis. Sounds in da city is an awesome open air project that makes great music accessible to everyone. The initiative started in 2010 with Allen Rosa and occupies different spots in the city each edition exposing great DJs and other artists. It’s a platform of access to culture and inspiration for everyone. Truly an amazing experience for everyone.
This event happens normally twice a month and the location changes every time. You can keep up with it on their Facebook page
Universitary Parties
UFSC is the biggest university in Florianópolis, and the students there are known for throwing great parties that attract a large number of young people desperate for a good time. These parties usually happen at Stage Music Park or Life Club Floripa in Jurerê Internacional. They are always open bar, but the drinks offered and the music styles change depending on each party. Each university party belong to a different course, and are organized by the students, sometimes with the help of professionals. The biggest university parties are: Linguição da Automação, Betonada da Civil, Insanitária, Tourada da Mecânica, Patoloko, Injeção Eletrônica, and Apocalipse. These parties happen once a year and are advertised at UFSC and on social medias.
Folianópolis
If you want to enjoy a true ‘micareta’, Folianópolis is a must go. The event started in 2006 and now is the second biggest party in Santa Catarina. By 2007, Folianópolis joined other micaretas from Natal, Fortaleza and Aracaju in the official Brazilian circuit. Micaretas are off-season carnivals but different from the carnival parade, this parede is guided by a ‘trio elétrico’ truck wired with loudspeakers and has a band performing on the trailer. The songs are very rhythmic and people sing and dance together. Folianópolis had very important Brazilian bands such as Ivete Sangalo, Banda Eva, Asa de Águia, Timbalada and Chiclete com Banana.
Moqueca do Fedoca
Since 2013, chef Fedoca offers this party during the carnival to offer the best moqueca and other seafood in town. Moqueca is a Brazilian recipe based on saltwater fish stew, tomatoes, onions, garlic and coriander. This private party in Lagoa da Conceição has DJs, bands and sometimes even a full carnival samba school’s drum section. There are open bar and open food options and can enjoy from the basics to the best of the VIP area. The party starts midday and tickets are available at the place.
Feijoada do Cacau
One of the most famous journalists in Florianópolis, Cacau Menezes throw a party ever year to gather around 5,000 people and have fun. This party has a lot of shows, beautiful and influential people, and one of the best feijoadas of Brazil. There is a contest to decide who’s the most beautiful girl in the party, the ‘Musa da Feijoada’. The main dish served is, of course, feijoada. Feijoada is a typical Brazilian dish made of flavorful stew of beans and pork. The structure in Lagoa da Conceição to this event is huge and you will surely have loads of fun.
Peixada do Gui
Always in the end of Carnival, this private party gather thousands of people to enjoy good music, beautiful people, open bar and open food. The food includes a buffet of fish dishes, salads and desserts. The structure to this event is complete and you can choose between different tickets that include from the basic services to the VIP complete one to have only the best of it.
Pride Parade
Called ‘Parada da Diversidade’, the pride parade happens in Florianópolis and Balneário Camboriú every year with around 150,000 people celebrating diversity and respect. Usually the parade happens between June and November to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City. The exact dates and streets it will take each year are announced on the general and social media few months beforehand. The event is very welcoming, happy and many families enjoy dancing and singing with the bands.
Stand up Comedy Festival in Florianópolis
Surely the funniest event in southern Brazil. Comedians from all over Brazil join this event in a very relaxed reunion to make you laugh the most you can. Some of the best comedians from Florianópolis also present such as Manezinho Darci, Dona Maricotinha, W Marcão, Chico Bateira and Silvonete Manicura. Happens once a year.
Pop gay
The Pop gay is a traditional and Carnival parade downtown that gathers almost 100,000 people. Many DJs play all day on the street, and a famous Brazilian band usually closes the event. The main attraction are the drag queen presentations and the drag queen contest with the categories beauty queen and drag queen. This event is free.
Mountain Do
The Mountain Do Circuit is pure adrenaline. The first edition was in 2004 at Lagoa da Conceição in Florianópolis. Later it expanded to other countries. The participants have to run in trails through deserts, beaches and mountains in Chile, Argentina, Peru, Morocco and Brazil. The Brazilian stage usually happens in Florianópolis or cities nearby. The trails vary in altitude, challenges and climate but the beautiful views and infrastructure to receive the runners are guaranteed. The organization always make sure the event is sustainable, and integrates participants and locals.
CINEMA
If you’re looking for a calm indoor activity or if it’s raining too much to be outside, a movie is always the best call. The popular cinemas in Florianópolis always have wide screens,great sound systems and 3D options. Some cinemas offer the VIP and cinepic options. If you’re looking for something alternative, the small cinemas are a good opportunity to enjoy less known movies and have a different experience. By law, students and elderly people can have up to 50% discount. Many clubs also provide special discounts. Here are the cinemas you will find:
Cinema Arcoplex Via Catarina
Shopping Via Catarina – Palhoça
Cinépolis Cinemas
Continente Park Shopping – São José
Arcoplex Cinemas
Shopping Itaguaçu – São José
Cinema Cinesystem Iguatemi
Shopping Iguatemi – downtown
Cinema Cine Show Beiramar
Shopping Beiramar – downtown
Cinema Cinemark
Floripa Shopping – Saco Grande
CINEMAS WITH ALTERNATIVE MOVIES
CIC
Avenida Irineu Bornhausen – Agronômica
Paradigma Cine Arte
Rod. SC-401 – Saco Grande
Casa das Máquinas
Praça Bento Silvério – Lagoa da Conceição
Fundação Badesc
Rua Visconde de Ouro Preto, 216 – Downtown
SHOPPING
For those who prefer to spend time indoors, Florianópolis has plenty of options. From amazing shopping malls to hundreds of stores with great prices, you will definitely find what you’re looking for!
HOTSPOT FOR SHOPPING:
city center
Beiramar Shopping
This mall has the largest number of stores and restaurants of good to high quality. It also has a movie theater and it is very nicely located by the waterfront (Beira-mar).
mainland
Continente Park Shopping
It’s the largest shopping mall of all, with movie theaters and a large variety of stores.
mainland
Havan
A big department store with cheap products and an iconic Statue of Liberty at the front entrance.
mainland
Mundo Car
A big shopping mall for car lovers.
mainland
Shopping Itaguaçu
The oldest shopping center, with many stores, restaurants and a movie theater.
city center
Felipe Schmidt Street
The busiest street in town, with a huge variety of stores of all kinds and prices, and a crowd of shoppers. The street ends at the famous XV Square.
north
Jurerê Open Shopping
A calm and lovely avenue with high quality restaurants, bars, and stores.
north
Floripa Shopping
This shopping center has more accessible prices, popular stores, a playground for kids, and a movie theater.
city center
Shopping Iguatemi
This shopping mall has good stores and it is very family friendly. It also has an affordable supermarket and a movie theater.
north
Centrinho dos Ingleses
This is a busy area during the summer, with souvenir shops, stores, restaurants, snack bars and a small street market. Street markets are known in Brazil as street hippie fairs.
east
Centrinho da Lagoa
A busy area the whole year round, with souvenir shops, stores, restaurants, snack bars and a street market.
mainland
Big Continente
A big department store with cheap products.
GASTRONOMY
Florianópolis is an island, so you can imagine how delicious the seafood is around here. But you are very wrong if you believe that's the only option. We have a huge variety of types of cuisine to make sure that everyone can easily find her or his favorite type of food. To make it easier to find a restaurant, Florianópolis has an ifood app. Here we list some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in town.
COFFEE
SEA FOOD
east
O Barba Negra
The town’s favorite seafood place, with great service.
east
Dolce Vita Restaurante
The food is guaranteed to taste as good as the great look of the restaurant. It serves other types of dishes besides seafood.
south
Porto do Contrato
An amazing restaurant and local architecture, with a great view of the bay and small islands.
north
Alameda dos Sabores
A restaurant with a privileged view of the sea, displaying a fancy architecture. It’s perfect for a romantic date or a day out with the family.
BARBECUE
city center
Las Leñas Parrilla Uruguaya
A romantic and fancy place that serves food of an amazing quality.
north
Meat Shop Grill
It offers an excellent variety of meals of good quality. A very nice place.
city center
Churrascaria Ataliba
We bet you have never eaten barbecued meat in a fancy place! A very nice looking restaurant and great meals.
city center
Churrasquim
A fun and comfy place with delicious food.
PIZZA
east
Pizzaria Basilico
This restaurant takes you all the way to Italy with its amazing visual. A very classy place with great pizza!
city center
Artesano Pizza
A rustic looking and welcoming place with great pizza and sometimes live music as well.
city center
Pop Pizza
A fun place with a great variety of fantastic pizza pies.
city center
Floripa Pizza
Good price and extremely tasty. Delivery only.
ITALIAN FOOD
city center
Valentino Ristorante e Pizzeria Italiana
A very fancy-looking Italian restaurant with fabulous food.
city center
Forneria Catarina
Good location and great meals.
city center
Macarronada Italiana
A very fancy-looking restaurant with fair prices and a great variety of dishes.
city center
It’s Italian Trattoria do Guto
A welcoming restaurant, with good prices and great quality meals.
MEXICAN FOOD
east
Taco Real
A comfy place to go and amazing food.
city center
Mamasita
It features typical Mexican food as well as typical Mexican drinks.
city center
Moochacho
It has one of the best burritos in town. Great location and price.
city center
Guacamole Cocina Mexicana
Authentic Mexican decoration, great food, and a live Mariachi band. Fabulous and fun place to go.
JAPANESE FOOD
city center
Wamaki
The only sushi place with a conveyor belt. Great food and very satisfying.
east
Sushi Bistrot
A little of Japan in Brazil. Delicious meals.
city center
Jun Temakeria
A modern-looking restaurant and very affordable. One of the best sushi places in town.
city center
Nipô Sushi
A very fancy place with fair prices and great quality meals.
CHINESE FOOD
city center
Jin Jin Work
Amazing food in a fancy place and reasonable prices.
city center
China in Box
Widely know for the great food and fair prices.
city center
Mr Chinese Fast Food
At Iguatemi Shopping, it serves great quality Chinese food and sushi.
city center
Palacio China
Well located in the city center, it offers good food at a great price.
OTHER ASIAN FOOD
north
Spice Garden (Indian Food)
The best Indian restaurant in Florianópolis. A pleasant place with great service and even better food for a fair price.
north
May
A nice, comfy and romantic place facing the beach that serves incredible Thai and seafood.
ARABIC FOOD
city center
Damasco Comida Árabe
A buffet to suit everyone's taste in a very authentically-decorated restaurant.
city center
Kaffa
The restaurant is very typical looking and welcoming, and the meals are good.
city center
Falah Coffee & Store
The amazing decoration makes you feel you are in Turkey. A buffet has great options and serves coffee, pastries, and traditional ice tea. A must go.
city center
X-Kebab
The best kebabs in town at very good prices.
VEGETARIAN FOOD
city center
Sabor das Cores
A huge variety of quality meals with good value.
city center
Restaurante Natural Tsan The
A very healthy and tasty restaurant with fair prices. Pets are welcome.
city center
Biomaislight
A very nice looking restaurant, with very fair prices and great meals.
south
Restaurante Sabor da Aldeia
A vegetarian restaurant that offers therapy and a connection to nature.
CITIES NEARBY
Balneário Camboriú & Itajaí
Approximately 80 km from Florianópolis, these two amazing cities have several beaches, a busy nightlife, and good food. Itajaí has a loading port and the only tourist pier for cruise ships in the region. There are historical touristic spots, excellent beaches for surfing, and the most famous electronic club in Brazil: The Warung Beach Club. Warung hosts events with the best DJs in the world, but you will also find unique DJs in Belvedere Beach Club, Castelo Le Mont, Habbitat and At Home.
Just south of Itajaí, you’ll find Balneário Camboriú. This city is a mini Florianópolis with clubs, beaches, trails, tree climbing, shopping malls, amusement parks, and basically every entertainment activity you can think of. The cableway Unipraias can take you from one beach to another with amazing views on the way. Alternatively, you can add more adrenaline to your experience and try the ziprider and the youhoo. Balneário is also the hotspot for electronic clubs, with Green Valley, La Belle and Selenza.
Garopaba & Imbituba
Found approximately 90 km from Florianópolis, Garopaba and Imbituba are popular destinations for the beaches, perfect waves for surfers, and an exciting nightlife. The Praia de Garopaba offers a good infrastructure with restaurants, bars, shops and even a camping site at the “Camping Lagoa Mar”. It’s ideal for surfing and watersports during the summer and whale watching during the winter. Praia da Ferrugem, also in Garopaba, is known for its surfers and parties. The beach is stunning, with strong waves and natural pools and dunes. The Praia do Rosa in Imbituba is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, excellent for surfing and watersports. It is known for its untouched natural beauty. You can only get there on foot.
Bombinhas & Porto Belo
After an almost 70-km drive from Florianópolis, you’ll find two of the most beautiful beach cities in the region. They not only offer a great place to get a tan and enjoy a beautiful view, but they also have great scuba diving spots with many diving schools that can give you the opportunity to have an unforgettable experience. In Porto Belo, you’ll find scuba diving in the Island of Porto Belo and at the Estaleiro beach. In Bombinhas, the best places to scuba dive are the Island of Arvoredo and the Island of Macuco. Besides the beach life, Bombinhas and Porto Belo offer a great nightlife, with bars and clubs of all kinds to make sure you have fun. El Fortin is the most famous electronic club in the area.
Palhoça & Santo Amaro da Imperatriz
No more than 20 km from Florianópolis, both cities are filled with activities. Palhoça offers beautiful trails in Cambinera and Cachoeira Jarrão, an exclusive area with loads of festivals in Pedra Branca, beautiful Guarda do Embaú beach, and the amazing seafood avenue in Enseada do Brito.
Santo Amaro da Imperatriz is known mostly for its countryside gastronomy. You’ll find many amazing cafes with buffets and all kinds of pastries and cakes. Also, you can have loads of adventures in breathtaking trails in Morro do Queimado and Morro do Tabuleiro, rafting in Cubatão, and paragliding off the beautiful Morro do Queimado.
Laguna
Laguna is located 120 km from Florianópolis and is full of history, museums and beaches. This incredible city is mostly known for its fabulous Street Carnival every year. The city offers five days of unstoppable parties in the streets for free. Music, bars, and a lot of excited people looking for a great time are found everywhere at this time of the year. This Carnival attracts people from all over the world and you should definitely make the time to have this unforgettable experience.
WHAT DOES IT OFFER?
MORE THINGS TO DO IN FLORIPA
No matter your taste, Florianópolis will likely offer something you will enjoy. Whether you want to spend a calm afternoon at the beach, go on a hike, an adventure or a shopping spree, play golf, or enjoy the busy nightlife, this city has what you need.