Florianópolis, Brazil: travel guide
An island of beaches, lagoons and surf on Brazil's southern coast
Brazil's "Magic Island" — 42 beaches from surf-mecca Praia Mole to glamorous Jurerê Internacional. One of Brazil's safest and wealthiest cities, beloved by Argentine and Uruguayan tourists.
About Florianópolis
Florianópolis is mostly an island, with a small mainland section, and its appeal lies in the many beaches spread around its coast. Each one has its own character, from the surf at Praia Mole and Joaquina to the more polished beach clubs of Jurerê Internacional.
Inland, the Lagoa da Conceição is the social hub, with a lake, sand dunes, restaurants and nightlife, and trails lead over headlands to quieter bays. Seafood, especially oysters and shrimp, is a local speciality, and the old fishing villages preserve Azorean-style architecture.
It suits beach holidays, surfers and those who like outdoor activity. Summer, from December to March, is peak season, while spring and autumn are quieter.
- Country
- Brazil
- Currency
- BRL
- Time zone
- America/Sao_Paulo
- Nearest airport
- FLN
Last updated
Top places to visit in Florianópolis
Lagoa da Conceição
Nature · 4.6 rating · about 4 h · check the fee at the gate
Florianópolis's most famous lagoon — windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding and bohemian café culture on the shore.
Jurerê Internacional
Beach · 4.5 rating · about 4 h · check the fee at the gate
Brazil's most glamorous beach — pristine 6km of white sand with celebrity-frequented beach clubs. Known as the Saint-Tropez of Latin America.
Praia da Joaquina
Beach · 4.5 rating · about 3 h · check the fee at the gate
Wild Atlantic-facing beach famous for sandboarding on enormous dunes. Brazilian surfing championships held here.
Things to do
- Kite Surfing at Lagoa da Conceição Adventure · 2 h · from 180 per person
- Whale Watching Tour from Florianópolis Nature · 3 h · from 150 per person
Where to stay in Florianópolis
- Lagoa da Conceição about BRL 380 per night
The most characterful base — lagoon, kite surfing, cafés and nightlife. 20 min from the best beaches. Suits adventurous, social travellers.
- Jurerê / Canasvieiras about BRL 480 per night
Family-friendly north coast resorts — calm waters, beach clubs (Jurerê Internacional) and more affordable than the south zone. Car recommended.
Hotels
- Costão do Santinho Resort 5-star · BRL 600 to BRL 2,200 per night
- Pousada da Vigia 3-star · BRL 260 to BRL 520 per night
Where to eat
- Box 32 Mercado Público brazilian, bar, seafood · about BRL 45 per person
- Ostradamus seafood, oysters · about BRL 80 per person
- Vito Restaurante italian-brazilian, seafood, contemporary · about BRL 90 per person
Getting to Florianópolis
Airport: Florianópolis (Hercílio Luz Intl) (FLN)
Getting around
- Bus
- Car Rental Self
- Ride Hail
- Walking
More in Brazil
Frequently asked questions about Florianópolis
- What are the top-rated places to visit in Florianópolis?
- The highest-rated places in our Florianópolis guide are Lagoa da Conceição, Jurerê Internacional, Praia da Joaquina.
- Where should I stay in Florianópolis?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Florianópolis: Lagoa da Conceição, Jurerê / Canasvieiras.
- How do I get around Florianópolis?
- Ways to get around Florianópolis covered in our guide: City bus, Self-drive car, Ride-hailing app, Walking.
- Which airport is nearest to Florianópolis?
- The nearest airport to Florianópolis has the code FLN.