Florianópolis goes by a lot of names. The majority of people refer to it as Florianópolis or simply “Floripa,” but its official name is Ilha de Santa Catarina. Some refer to it as “Magic Island,” which is obvious as soon as you step onto one of its beaches’ immaculate white sands.
Sun lovers have been coming to this southern Brazilian location for decades because of the many beaches, delicious fresh seafood, charming Azorean fishing villages, and exciting nightlife. It’s a well-liked destination for youthful travelers who want to have some fun late at night.
There are over 60 beaches in Florianópolis, which is centered on Santa Catarina Island. The Atlantic and southern beaches attract lazy adventurers, surfers, and sailors, while the northern beaches offer the warmest seas and the most tourists.
Best Things to Do in Florianopolis
The island is full of adventures, so prepare to try something new and have a lot of fun.
Surfing | The island’s east coast is a surfers’ heaven, so come to Floripa if you enjoy this activity.
Paragliding | If you enjoy paragliding, Lagoa de Conceicao is the place to be.
Hiking | There are hiking paths all throughout the island, suitable for everyone from beginners to expert hikers. Our favorite hike was to a remote beach called Laguna de Leste.
Shopping | There are many large shopping malls in Florianopolis, all of which are contemporary and include over 150 stores and theaters, although shopping is also available on Santa Catalina Island.
Eating out Florianopolis is well-known for its gastronomy, which includes the island’s signature oysters.
Windsurfing | Lagoa de Conceicao is a famous windsurfing destination because of its shallow waters and strong winds all year.
Boat Tours | Do you want to travel to the opposite side of the island but think taking the bus would be too boring? Let’s take a boat cruise and spend the day at sea.
Scuba Diving | Scuba diving is available at several locations on the island.
Paddle Boarding | The Lagoa da Conceicao provides ideal conditions for this popular water sport.
How to Be Safe in Florianópolis
Florianópolis is a safe place to visit, even if you are traveling alone or as a solo female tourist. There isn’t much violent crime here. Petty crime is your main concern here, and it is rather uncommon (compared to the rest of Brazil).
You may experience small crimes (such as stealing) around renowned tourist attractions, so keep a check on your stuff, especially while traveling crowded public transit. Keep your valuables out of reach and protected at all times, and never display expensive objects or cash.
Where to stay in Florianópolis?
Looking for a low-cost location to stay when visiting Florianópolis? Here are my recommended locations to stay:
- Barra Beach Club, Oceanfront Hostel
- Search House Beachfront Hostel
- Tucano House, Summer Hostel
- Geckos’ Hostel
Best Beaches in Florianopolis
We prefer beaches with fewer hotels and more quiet, although Florianopolis provides both, in case you prefer the opposite.
Laghoina do Leste, located in the island’s south, is our favorite beach.
Because it takes roughly an hour to get to the beach, you can be certain that there will be few people there, even during peak season.
Praia da Galheta and Praia Mole were two additional beaches that we also enjoyed.
If you are a beach lover then try out this guide.
What to Pack
Florianopolis is about having fun and enjoying the sun. Pack light, protect your skin and eyes, and consider purchasing a waterproof daypack.
Waterproof Dry Bag | This is an excellent waterproof daypack for any aquatic activity.
Swimsuit | Remember to pack your swimsuit!
Flip-flops | Flip-flops are ideal footwear for usage in Florianopolis.
Sunglasses | Keep your eyes protected at all times.
Travel Towel | A lightweight, quick-drying towel is ideal for sandy beaches.
Sunscreen | We wore SPF 50+ every day in Brazil.
Money-Saving Tips
Eat por kilo – As with elsewhere in Brazil, eateries that serve meals by the kilo provide good value. Look out for these low-cost solutions.
Visit the market – If you’re staying in a hostel with a kitchen, it’s a good idea to go grocery shopping and eat like a local.
Stay with a local – Couchsurfing links you with locals who can offer you a free place to stay while also sharing insider insights and information. It’s the most effective approach to meet locals and save money.
Pack a water bottle – The tap water here is unsafe to drink, so pack a water bottle with a filter to save money and decrease your consumption of single-use plastics. My favored bottle is the LifeStraw, which features a built-in filter to keep your water pure and safe.
Stay at Lagoa da Conceição, Florianópolis’ backpacker hotspot with convenient amenities including hostels and stores. You’ll have to take a bus to the beach, but lodging here is far less expensive than in coastal locations.
Conclusion
Florianópolis, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and endless outdoor activities, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a tropical getaway. From surfing and windsurfing to hiking and exploring charming coastal towns, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. Whether you’re a budget traveler or a luxury seeker, Florianópolis offers a diverse range of experiences to suit every taste. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of this Brazilian paradise.