Top Things to Do in Florianópolis, Brazil – Beaches, Nature & Adventure

Located in the Southern region of Brazil, Florianópolis is a unique blend of:
 

Picturesque beaches

Lush forests

Vibrant culture

Thriving nightlife

Outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and paragliding

Florianópolis, also known as "Magic Island", boasts a perfect balance between urban convenience and natural beauty. Its numerous pristine beaches, lush greenery, and diverse activities make it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Whether you're looking to relax by the beach, dive into adventure sports, or explore the island’s rich heritage, Florianópolis offers something for everyone.

📍 Quick Facts About Florianópolis

State: Santa Catarina

Founded: 1673

Population: ~500,000

Best Time to Visit: December to March (for warm weather and beach activities)

Airport: Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN)

Island Area: 432.9 km² (mostly coastal, with many beaches)

🌟 Top Things to Do in Florianópolis

1. 🏖️ Explore the Beaches of Florianópolis

Florianópolis is home to some of Brazil's most beautiful and diverse beaches. From lively and party-filled coasts to quiet, secluded coves, there’s a beach for every type of traveler.

Must-Visit Beaches:

Joaquina Beach – Famous for its surf spots and dunes

Barra da Lagoa – Family-friendly beach with calm waters and seafood restaurants

Praia Mole – A vibrant beach popular for surfing, bars, and nightlife

Lagoinha do Leste – Secluded beach surrounded by mountains, ideal for hiking and solitude

Canavieiras Beach – Relaxed atmosphere with calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing

🌊 Insider Tip: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit for fewer crowds and stunning sunsets.

2. 🥾 Go Hiking in the Nature Reserves

Florianópolis is renowned for its natural beauty, with many hiking trails offering breathtaking views of the island and the coastline. Explore its rugged mountains, lush forests, and secluded beaches.

Popular Hikes:

Lagoinha do Leste Trail – A challenging yet rewarding hike leading to a pristine beach

Morro da Cruz – A short hike to panoramic views of the city and the island

Costa da Lagoa – An easy trail that takes you through the forest and ends at a village with traditional seafood restaurants

Vila Pântano do Sul – A coastal trail offering great photo opportunities and access to beautiful beach viewpoints

🌳 If you're a nature enthusiast, don’t miss the Hercílio Luz Bridge area or the Costa da Lagoa trail.

3. 🌆 Discover the Charm of Florianópolis Old Town (Centro Histórico)

Florianópolis' old town is a perfect place to get a feel for the island’s culture and history. Located on the mainland, the Centro Histórico is full of colonial buildings, bustling markets, and local restaurants.

Must-see in Centro Histórico:

Catedral Metropolitana de Florianópolis – Historic church with beautiful architecture

Mercado Público – A lively market offering local products and seafood

Palácio Cruz e Sousa – The Governor's Palace with its museum and exhibitions

Largo da Alfândega – A square surrounded by important historic buildings and cafes

🖼️ Take a walking tour to appreciate the colonial charm and hidden gems of the city center.

4. 🚤 Take a Boat Tour of the Island

Florianópolis is surrounded by water, making boat tours a must-do activity. Explore the island’s coastline, discover small islands, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding seas.

Popular Boat Tours:

Ilha do Campeche – A pristine island with crystal-clear waters and hiking trails

Parque Estadual do Rio Vermelho – Boat tours exploring the protected areas of the island

Saco da Capela – A boat ride through the scenic waters with a chance to observe wildlife

🌅 Consider taking a sunset boat tour for a magical view of the island’s coastline.

5. 🏄‍♂️ Surfing and Water Sports

Florianópolis is a surfer’s paradise, with world-class beaches and reliable surf spots. Whether you’re an expert or a beginner, there are waves for every level.

Best Surf Spots:

Joaquina Beach – Known for its consistent waves, this is where international surfing competitions are held

Barra da Lagoa – Gentle waves, great for beginners

Praia Mole – A hotspot for local surfers and often crowded with tourists

🌊 If surfing isn’t your thing, try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kite surfing, or windsurfing.

6. 🌿 Explore the Flora and Fauna at Parque Estadual do Rio Vermelho

For those seeking eco-tourism, Parque Estadual do Rio Vermelho is a must-visit. This large nature reserve offers:

Dense forests

Tranquil lagoons

Abundant wildlife

The park is great for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying the biodiversity of the island. You can also explore its eco-friendly visitor center and observe local conservation efforts.

7. 🏙️ Experience the Nightlife of Florianópolis

Florianópolis is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, with options ranging from laid-back beach bars to high-energy nightclubs.

Nightlife Areas:

Lagoa da Conceição – A lively area filled with bars, nightclubs, and live music venues

Barra da Lagoa – A more relaxed vibe with beachside pubs and restaurants

Praia Mole – For those looking to party, with clubs open until early morning hours

🎶 Dance to Forró, Samba, or Electronic music, depending on your mood!

🍽️ What to Eat in Florianópolis

Florianópolis offers a mix of seafood, traditional Brazilian dishes, and international cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes:

Sequência de camarão – A shrimp platter served with rice, beans, and farofa (toasted cassava flour)

Camarão na moranga – Shrimp cooked inside a pumpkin with cream and spices

Tainha (Mullet) – A fish popular in Florianópolis, often served grilled or baked

Arroz de marisco – Brazilian seafood rice

Where to Eat:

Restaurante do Curto – Fresh seafood and traditional local dishes

O Barba – Modern Brazilian cuisine with a beach vibe

Adega de Cacupé – High-end seafood restaurant with a view

🏨 Where to Stay in Florianópolis

🏖️ Beachside – Lagoa da Conceição

Pousada dos Sonhos – Relaxed beachfront retreat

Lagoa Eco Village – Boutique hotel with eco-friendly amenities

🌇 City Center – Centro Histórico

Majestic Palace Hotel – Luxury with great city views

Hotel Faial – Budget-friendly, central location

🚗 Getting Around Florianópolis

🚕 Uber and local taxis are available and easy to use

🚗 Renting a car is recommended for exploring the island’s beaches and nature spots

🚌 Public transport is available but not always convenient for tourists

🚲 Bike rentals are great for exploring areas like Lagoa da Conceição

📅 Best Time to Visit Florianópolis

🎉 December to March is the best time for a beach holiday, but April to June is ideal for hiking and exploring without the crowds.

🎉 Festivals and Cultural Events

Carnaval de Florianópolis – Vibrant Carnival celebrations with samba and frevo music

Festa do Marisco (Lobster Festival) – A celebration of seafood in the city

Semana Farroupilha – A week dedicated to gaucho (cowboy) culture, with traditional music and dance

🧳 Travel Tips for Florianópolis

🌞 Bring sunscreen — the sun can be intense, especially on the beaches

👟 Comfortable shoes are a must for hiking trails

🧴 Carry insect repellent for evening walks in nature

💵 Cash is accepted at smaller markets, but credit cards are widely used in restaurants

🧭 Why You Should Visit Florianópolis

Florianópolis is one of Brazil’s most unique destinations, offering:

Stunning beaches

Outdoor adventures

Rich cultural heritage

Vibrant nightlife

Incredible natural beauty

Whether you’re into surfing, hiking, dining, or just soaking up the sun, Florianópolis is a perfect escape for all kinds of travelers.