Things to do in  Florianopolis

One of Florianopolis’ coolest towns is located just over the hill from the downtown area. Conceicao Lagoon (Lagoa da Conceição) is the Island of Magic’s hip district, and boasts a collection of trendy bars and restaurants nestled around the large lagoon. The area is also known for its jungle trekking, sand dunes, and many nearby beaches.

Nicknamed “Joaca” by locals, Joaquina Beach is one of Florianopolis’ surfing hot spots. It's famous for its superior swell, and has played host to international surfing competitions. But while you might not be able to spend much time in the water without a board, the beach’s golden sands and gorgeous natural surroundings ensure it's still a lovely spot to spend the day.

Centro Historico de Florianopolis is the cultural heart of both Florianopolis and the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. Here, colonial architecture sits among leafy plazas and churches housing sacred art. It’s also home to the Santa Catarina Historical Museum in a grand former palace and Florianópolis Public Market, where you can pick up artisan souvenirs and sample Brazilian street food.

Once the largest bridge in South America, Hercilio Luz Bridge (Ponte Hercilio Luz) is a major landmark of Florianopolis and the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. Connecting the island to the mainland, it offers panoramic views of the turquoise ocean, and you can cross it on foot, by bike, or in a vehicle.

Located on the eastern side of Brazil’s Santa Catarina Island, Projeto Tamar Florianópolis is conservation center dedicated to protecting the region’s different species of sea turtles from the destructive effects of commercial fishing. Guided tours show visitors how the project protects sea turtles in Brazil.

Stretching for 2 miles (3.2 kilometers), Armacao Beach (Praia da Armacao) is a beautiful stretch of sand in southern Florianopolis. While the water here can feel a little cooler than other more tropical beaches, the sand is a bright white and the ocean has a distinctly turquoise hue, making it a dream for photographers.

Nestled among the lush greenery of Florianopolis’ northeasterly tip, Mocambique Beach (Praia do Moçambique, also called Mozambique Beach) is a pristine stretch of sand that’s part of Rio Vermelho State Park, which showcases the biodiversity of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. Because it’s only accessible by 4-wheel drive, the beach sees far fewer crowds than other parts of Floripa.

Situated on Santa Catarina Island, just outside the Brazilian city of Florianópolis, Aqua Show Park offers an entertaining day out for all ages. The outdoor water park complex covers 7.4 acres (30,000 square meters), is surrounded by native forest, and offers a variety of pools, rides, and games.

A wide stretch of sand near the northern tip of Florianopolis, Praia do Santinho is famous for its surfing swell and the natural attractions that surround it. While the waves are better suited to boards than bodies, the beach is surrounded by sand dunes and hiking trails that lead to viewpoints and lagoons.

While the mustard-yellow exterior of the 17th-century Catedral Metropolitana de Florianopolis is an attraction in itself, the religious structure is known for its collection of sacred art inside, too. One of its most famous pieces is the Flight of Egypt sculpture by Tyrolean artist Demetz Groeden, a hand-carved depiction of Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus.

Home to more than 100 animals from 70 different species, Brusque Zoo Botanical Park (Parque Zoobotanico de Brusque) is a family-friendly attraction that gives you the chance to spot a number of endangered species, many of which have been rescued from illegal trafficking or mistreatment.

Whether you want to get your adrenaline pumping on a high-speed water slide, cool off beneath an artificial waterfall, or fly through the air on a giant swing, Cascaneia Water Park (Parque Aquático Cascanéia)—Catarina’s largest water park—has something to suit the whole family.

One of southern Florianopolis’ most famous viewpoints, Mirante do Morro das Pedras offers panoramic views of the pristine coastline that this part of Brazil is famous for. From here, you can admire the white sand and turquoise water of Praia do Caldeirão, Praia da Armação, and Praia do Morro das Pedras, and sometimes see as far as Campeche Island.

Dating back to the late 18th century, Largo da Alfandega (Customs Square) is packed full of historical architecture and cultural gems. Since its conception, the square has been a meeting point for commerce and socializing. It boasts neoclassical buildings, water features, vendors selling snacks and artisan goods, and the popular Municipal Public Market, where you can feast on Brazilian street food.

If you want to escape Florianopolis’ more developed side, the stripped-back shores of Praia do Matadeiro are the place for you. Free of hotels and city noise, the pristine sand and crystal-clear waters of this locale are the ideal place to relax. The trees backing the beach provide some welcome shade.