Florianopolis Guide -
The beauty of Florianópolis lies in its variety. From Brazil's calmest state capital to the holiday beaches of the north, miles of dunes and waves along the east coast, the remote villages hidden amongst the mountains of the south, and the lagoons reflecting the peaks and trees of the central hills, Floripa has a place for everyone.
Go Floripa is your guide for a trip around the whole island so you can decide where you want to go, what you want to do and perhaps even who you want to do it with before you even set foot on the island. Whether you want the lowdown on the surf and the sand, tips on the trails and the treks, or knowledge of the nightlife and the natives, click below to get to know.
The basic rule is that the continental side has been residential since the first Europeans arrived; the northern beaches have calmer water suitable for older people and families; the Atlantic side attracts a younger crowd, along with Lagoa da Conceição at the centre, who come from all over Brazil and the world for the surf, the sand, the scenery by day and the nightlife after dark; heading south takes you away from all this to a remote wilderness.
The City Florianópolis has a thriving, modern centre with a colonial history and a number of interesting sights to pass a few hours, with two universities in the outer suburbs.
Northern Glamour the tranquil waters and soft sands of the north coast have attracted holidaymaker for decades, and it is home to the busiest beaches and some of the largest nightclubs on the island. It also has some quiet corners.
East Coast Adrenaline the east coast is the home of the longest beaches, the best surf and the largest dunes for all your adrenaline needs. Some of the best island views come from the trails over the hills between the beaches. Plus it has the turtle sanctuary. And the nudest beach. Should you need them.
Lagoa da Conceição the stunning lagoon occupies a large part of the eastern side of the island, between the central spine of green hills and the Atlantic. The scenery is complimented by water sports, waterfalls, footfalls on the trails, and some of the best restaurants, bars and clubs on the island.
Scenic South the whole island is beautiful, but the rugged mountains that drop directly into the sea make the wild south the most impressive. With tiny fishing villages clinging to their slopes, near-deserted beaches, and rocky headlands for watching dolphins and whales swim by, nature is still very much in charge in the south.