Florianópolis wasn’t at the top of our Brazil bucket list at first, until we finally visited. This island in southern Brazil, also known as Ilha da Magia (Magic Island), feels like the perfect mix of surf paradise, foodie destination and laid-back digital nomad hotspot. With more than 40 beaches, a charming historic center, lagoons, dunes and surprisingly good culinary hotspots (it’s officially recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy), Florianópolis is so much more than just a beach destination. In this travel guide, we share the best things to do in Florianópolis, our favorite places on the island and why this might just be one of the best destinations in Brazil.
Things to do in Florianópolis, Brazil: these are our personal tips
Florianópolis, better known as Floripa, is officially the name of the city. In reality, however, most people use “Florianópolis” to refer to the entire island. The majority of the city is located on Ilha de Santa Catarina, an island in southern Brazil, in the state of Santa Catarina. It lies between São Paulo and the border with Uruguay and is connected to the mainland by a bridge.
Once you arrive on the island, it feels like you’re far away from everything. The unique mix of tropical nature and a relaxed, almost European atmosphere gives Florianópolis a different vibe from many other Brazilian cities. It feels more compact and safer, while still offering that authentic Brazil experience. These are our 12 favorite things to do in Florianópolis (Floripa)!
1. Rent a car in Florianópolis and go on an adventure
Good to know: the beaches, city center and main attractions in Florianópolis are spread out across the island. If you really want to make the most of your time in Florianópolis, renting a car is highly recommended. It allows you to easily drive from a surf beach on the east coast to a quiet bay in the north, and finish the day at a great restaurant in the city center. We rented our car through Sunny Cars because everything is fully insured and you won’t face unexpected costs upon arrival.
2. Explore the beaches of Florianópolis (more than 40!)
What makes Florianópolis so special? The incredible variety of beaches. You’ll find over 40 beaches here, ranging from wild surf spots to sheltered bays and upscale seaside areas. And the best part? Many of them never feel overly crowded. We stayed in Campeche and could walk straight from our accommodation onto a wide, peaceful stretch of sand. It instantly became one of our favorite beaches on the island. But of course, we explored more, and these are all our personal favorite beaches in Florianópolis:
Our favorite beaches in Florianópolis
Praia do Campeche: quiet, relaxed beach where you can totally unwind.
Praia da Armaçao do Pântano do Sul & Praia do Morro das Pedras: these beaches are located right next to each other and are connected by a wooden boardwalk along the coast. It’s a great idea to first hike to Cachoeira da Solidão, take a refreshing dip in the cool waterfall, and then unwind on one of the beaches afterward.
Praia da Joaquina: a popular surfing beach, it is known for its consistent, powerful waves, ideal for surfers of different levels.
Praia da Armação: a picturesque former fishing village with clear turquoise waters and a relaxed vibe. On the right side of the beach, the sea is calm and shallow, making it a great spot for families with kids.
Jurerê Internacional: an upscale beach resort area in Florianópolis with stylish beach clubs and calm, swimmable waters (ideal for kids). It’s more developed and can get busier!
Praia do Matadeiro: an unspoiled beach in the south of Florianópolis, popular with surfers thanks to its consistent waves. You can only reach it on foot via a small bridge or trail, which makes it feel even more special and untouched.
Praia da Lagoinha do Leste: a wild, almost untouched beach in the south of Florianópolis, only accessible by hiking trail or by boat. After trekking through the rainforest, you’re rewarded with a postcard-perfect scene: a turquoise lagoon, dramatic cliffs and views that feel completely off the grid.
3. Lagoa da Conceição: rent a canoe or SUP board
If there’s one place where you truly feel Florianópolis’ laid-back island vibe, it’s at Lagoa da Conceição. This large lagoon in the heart of the island is a hotspot for water lovers. You can rent SUP boards, kayaks, canoes and even pedal boats, or try your hand at windsurfing. Along the way, you’ll find small sandy spots where you can pull up and relax for a bit. The water is much calmer than the ocean, making it perfect for beginners, especially if you’re new to windsurfing.
Around the lagoon, you’ll find several rental spots, so booking in advance usually isn’t necessary. We rented ours from Escola de Velas Florivento, which we’d definitely recommend.
4. Experience why Florianópolis is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy
We knew Florianópolis had beaches and nature. But that it’s also an official gastronomic destination? That honestly surprised us the most. Florianópolis is recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, meaning the city is internationally valued for its culinary heritage, local products and vibrant food culture. Here, gastronomy isn’t just a side note, it’s a core part of the island’s identity.
Floripa’s cuisine was shaped by a unique mix of influences. When settlers from the Azores arrived, they blended their Portuguese traditions with ingredients introduced by the indigenous Carijó people, such as cassava, fish and shellfish. Over time, Italian, German, Spanish, Arab and Japanese immigrants added their own flavours to the mix. The result? A cuisine rooted in simplicity, freshness and seafood, yet layered with surprising depth and character.
The famous oysters of Ribeirão da Ilha
If there’s one thing you have to try here, it’s the oysters. In the neighbourhood of Ribeirão da Ilha, in the south of the island, they are locally farmed and often served the very same day. Along the scenic coastal road, you’ll find waterfront restaurants where you can enjoy fresh oysters, grilled fish and traditional dishes like pirão, a creamy cassava mash typically served alongside seafood, all with sweeping ocean views.
Another fantastic restaurant for fresh oysters and seafood is Rancho de Canoa, beautifully located by the lagoon (Lagoa da Conceição). Make sure to try the fresh shrimp served inside a pumpkin, a local favourite and as delicious as it sounds.
Follow a gastronomic sunset route
What makes Florianópolis even more special is how seriously they embrace their culinary identity through themed food routes. There’s, for example, a gastronomic sunset route that takes you past bars and restaurants overlooking the North Bay. Another favorite is the Oyster Route in Ribeirão da Ilha, where you can dive deeper into the island’s seafood culture. You simply drive from one waterfront restaurant to the next, enjoying ocean views and oysters that couldn’t be fresher. Discover all gastronomic routes in Florianópolis.
Personal hotspot tips in Floripa
We had a memorable night out at La Cave Gastrobar in Floripa. Here, Mediterranean cuisine meets local ingredients from Santa Catarina. The menu revolves around seasonal produce and pure, refined flavors, perfectly paired with carefully selected wines that truly elevate the experience.
For a completely different, but equally lovely vibe, head to Casa Calma Café Bar in Ribeirão da Ilha. This former house has been transformed into a cozy, character-filled café where you can sip great coffee and enjoy homemade pastries, creative seasonal dishes and seriously good pizzas.
5. Visit the historic center of Florianópolis
Many people come to Florianópolis for the beaches and never leave them. A shame, because the historic center is absolutely worth your time. It reveals a completely different side of the island: colorful, cultural and full of character. In downtown Florianópolis, you’ll stroll past colonial buildings, leafy squares shaded by giant trees and façades painted in soft pastel tones. It's a charming contrast to the island’s wild coastline.
And then there’s the street art. It’s everywhere. Entire walls are covered in vibrant murals that tell stories about the island’s history, culture and identity. Walking through the center almost feels like exploring an open-air gallery.
Downtown highlights: the Catedral Metropolitana and Mercado Público
One of the main highlights is the Catedral Metropolitana de Florianópolis, located on the central square Praça XV de Novembro. The white-and-yellow cathedral creates a beautiful contrast with the modern street art in the surrounding streets. Take your time here: wander without a plan, explore the smaller side streets and settle down at a local café to soak up the atmosphere.
Afterwards, make sure to step inside the Mercado Público de Florianópolis. This covered market has been a meeting place for locals since the 19th century. You’ll find fish stalls, small restaurants and lively bars. Especially around lunchtime, the atmosphere is buzzing. It’s the perfect spot to get a glimpse of everyday life in Floripa.
6. Admire the view of the Ponte Hercílio Luz (bridge)
As soon as you drive into Florianópolis, you’ll spot it in the distance: the iconic Ponte Hercílio Luz. This long steel suspension bridge connects the island to the mainland and has become the true symbol of the city.
The bridge opened in 1926 and was considered an impressive engineering achievement at the time. Today, it has been fully restored and is especially popular with pedestrians and cyclists, who cross it for the views over the bay and skyline.
Tip: For one of the best views of the bridge, head to the Mirante da Praia – Beira Mar viewpoint.
7. Visit the turtle project Projeto Tamar
Are you interested in nature and wildlife? Then a visit to Projeto Tamar is a meaningful addition to your time in Florianópolis. This Brazilian conservation initiative is dedicated to protecting sea turtles and has several locations across the country.
We previously visited Projeto Tamar in Praia do Forte, about a 1.5-hour drive from Salvador, where we learned a lot about the different turtle species and the threats they face. In Florianópolis, you can also learn more about their conservation work and, if you’re visiting in the right season, even see baby sea turtles up close. It’s an accessible and inspiring way to better understand the fragile ecosystem of Brazil’s coastline and why protecting it is so important.
8. Take a boat trip to Campeche Island (Ilha do Campeche)
Craving that crystal-clear, turquoise water? Then hop on a boat to Ilha do Campeche, also known as Campeche Island. Just off the east coast of Florianópolis, this small island feels almost Caribbean, with powdery white sand and unbelievably clear sea.
You can reach the island by boat from places like Praia do Campeche or Armação. The crossing usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by white sand, turquoise water, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
What makes it even more special is that the island is a protected nature reserve, with a limited number of visitors allowed per day. That keeps it peaceful and unspoiled. You can swim, snorkel, or join a guided walk to see ancient archaeological rock carvings scattered across the island.
Tip: A boat trip to Ilha do Campeche is definitely on the pricier side (around €50 per person, which you can usually book directly on the beach). A more budget-friendly, and just as fun alternative is a boat trip to Ilha do Francês, where you can also enjoy clear water, great note snorkeling spots and a relaxed island vibe.
9. Hike to Lagoinha do Leste
Possibly the most fun activity in Florianópolis: the hike to Lagoinha do Leste. We almost never skip a good hike – and this one instantly made it onto our favorites note. You walk through dense rainforest, scramble over rocks, pass epic viewpoints, and are ultimately rewarded with a completely secluded beach. Exactly the kind of mix of adventure and raw nature that makes us happy. There are several ways to reach Lagoinha do Leste:
The most popular route starts in Pântano do Sul. After about 1.4 kilometers of climbing through the rainforest, you’ll reach a fork in the trail, and that’s where you have to choose:
1. Directly to the beach Lagoinha do Leste
If you continue straight, you’ll descend toward Lagoinha do Leste. The trail is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain, but it’s technically manageable if you take it slow. Before you know it, you’ll be standing on the almost deserted beach below.
2. First to the Pedra do Surfista viewpoint (Trilha Morro da Coroa)
If you turn right, you’ll head onto the Morro da Coroa hike toward the Pedra do Surfista viewpoint. This section is narrower, rougher and a bit more adventurous. You’ll scramble over rocks, step across tree roots and occasionally use your hands to climb. But once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views over the bay and the untouched beach below. In our opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island.
We recommend doing this hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the worst of the heat. Bring plenty of water and wear proper hiking shoes, you’ll thank yourself later. It took us about 3 hours in total to hike up to the Pedra do Surfista viewpoint and back to the starting point in Pântano do Sul. Planning to continue down to the beach as well? Set aside at least 4 hours so you can relax on the sand and truly enjoy the experience.
The other route starts at Praia do Matadeiro. This trail is longer, but generally flatter and much quieter. It leads you to the lagoon side of the beach, offering a slightly different and more peaceful arrival at Lagoinha do Leste.
10. Learn how to surf in Florianópolis
Florianópolis is known as one of the best surf spots in Brazil, and even of South America. With more than 40 beaches, there’s almost always a good wave to be found somewhere on the island. For beginners, beaches like Praia Mole and Praia da Joaquina are popular. Here you’ll find several surf schools where you can book a lesson or rent a board for a few hours.
What we loved most is how accessible surfing feels here. Everywhere you look, locals are walking around with their boards under their arms, and there are laid-back beach bars where you can crash after your session with a fresh açaí bowl. Even if you don’t hit the waves yourself, it’s fun to just sit back and watch the surfers carving through the swell.
Tip: You’ll generally find the best surf conditions between April and October, when the waves are more consistent and powerful. During the Brazilian summer (December to March), the waves tend to be a bit gentler, great if you’re just starting out.
11. Sandboarding in the dunes of Praia do Joaquina
Looking for something different from just beach and ocean? Go sandboarding at Praia da Joaquina. Behind this popular surf beach you’ll find vast sand dunes where you can slide down on a board, like snowboarding, but on warm sand. You can easily rent a board on the spot and head straight up the dunes. And the view from the top is pretty spectacular too: the ocean on one side, and on the other the lagoon and rolling green hills.
12. Experience the digital nomad vibes in Florianópolis
What surprised us the most about Florianópolis? The laid-back digital nomad vibe. Between the surf beaches and hikes, there’s a surprisingly international energy. You’ll find plenty of cafés with good Wi-Fi, coworking spaces, yoga and pilates studios, and entrepreneurs staying “for a few months.” This vibe is especially noticeable in Lagoa da Conceição and Campeche.
Why Florianópolis is such a great destination
Florianópolis truly surprised us. Not just because of its more than 40 beaches, but especially for the balance it offers: nature and city, energy and calm, simplicity and quality. The city feels organized and safe, with a high quality of life that you notice in its relaxed vibe and the outdoor lifestyle that’s at the heart of everything.
The best places to stay in Florianópolis
Where you stay in Florianópolis largely shapes your trip. Are you after beach and surf vibes? A lively area with restaurants and bars on your doorstep? Or a mix of nature and charm? Here are, in our opinion, the three best areas to stay.
1. Campeche: relaxed, beachy, and spacious
Campeche is located in the south of the island and immediately gives off a relaxed vibe. Wide, quiet beaches, plenty of surfers, a handful of great restaurants, and hardly any high-rises. It’s the perfect spot for sun, sea, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s much quieter than the city center, so if you want to be in the middle of the action, this might not be the best choice.
In Campeche, you’ll find plenty of great hotels, apartments, and Airbnbs, many just a five-minute walk from the beach. Check out Campeche accommodation options for a full overview. A top pick is Pousada Ilha Faceira, a cozy guesthouse just 200 meters from Praia do Campeche. We stayed in Campeche ourselves and loved it as a relaxed base to explore the island.
Tip: The best part of our stay in Campeche was probably the early morning dip in the sea at sunrise, with a view over a still almost deserted beach.
2. Lagoa da Conceição: lively and diverse
Lagoa da Conceição is located around the large lagoon in the middle/east of the island. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a mix of activities. During the day, you can go SUPing or kayaking on the lagoon, and in the evening, enjoy drinks at cozy restaurants and bars. There are plenty of coffee spots and other hotspots within walking distance.
If you also want to go beach-hopping, having a car is essential. While you’re not directly by the ocean here, several popular beaches are just a short drive away. You can reach Praia Mole or Praia da Joaquina in about 10–15 minutes.
One of the most beautiful places to stay near Lagoa is Hotel Boutique Quinta das Videiras. This charming boutique hotel is set in an elegant 19th-century Portuguese-style building, featuring high ceilings, frescoes, and stunning stained-glass windows. The rooms are classically decorated yet equipped with all modern comforts. A highlight: each room has its own balcony overlooking the garden and Lagoa da Conceição. A romantic, peaceful spot full of character. Ideal for those seeking a special stay in Floripa.
3. Centro (city center): culture and history in Florianópolis
If you want to stay closer to the historic heart of the city, downtown Florianópolis is a great option. You’ll be just steps away from colorful streets, street art, and landmarks like the Catedral Metropolitana. It’s a great place to experience the local city life and it makes for a convenient base with plenty of amenities. Keep in mind, though, that the popular beaches are a bit further away.
A convenient base in the city center is Intercity Florianopolis. From the hotel, you can easily walk to the Mercado Público de Florianópolis, perfect for a drink or picking up souvenirs. The lobby offers stunning views of the bay and the iconic Ponte Hercílio Luz. The rooms are well-equipped, breakfast is extensive, and the pool is ideal for a refreshing dip after a day exploring the historic center.
Enjoy a roundtrip in Brazil
Florianópolis shows a different side of Brazil compared to the well-known highlights. That’s exactly what makes it such a great addition to a Brazil itinerary. Combine the relaxed island vibe of Floripa with our tips for what to do in Rio de Janeiro, from Sugarloaf Mountain to the beaches of Ipanema. You could also start your Brazil trip in the bustling city of São Paulo. Here are our tips for visiting São Paulo.
Looking for more tropical vibes? The city of Salvador da Bahia is a must-visit. From there, be sure to continue to the car-free island of Morro de São Paulo, where beaches and laid-back vibes take center stage.
And do you want to combine colonial charm with beautiful nature? Then check out our travel guide with tips for what to do in Paraty.
An unforgettable journey in Brazil
Do you want to explore Brazil but feel overwhelmed by the vast distances, domestic flights, and diverse regions? We get it. Brazil is huge, diverse, and truly awe-inspiring and that’s exactly what makes it so special. As personal travel planners, we take care of everything for you. From tropical islands like Florianópolis to colorful cities, jungle adventures, and paradise-like beaches, we create a tailor-made itinerary that fits your wishes, pace, and budget.
