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Things to Do in Florianopolis

Things to Do in Florianopolis

Florianopolis Santa Catarina, Brazil Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Explore the diverse landscapes of Florianópolis through a range of invigorating outdoor activities.

Hiking & Trekking

Trilha da Lagoinha do Leste

Moderate to difficult, 2-4 hours. Rewards hikers with stunning coastal views and a pristine, secluded beach.

Trilha da Costa da Lagoa

Easy to moderate, connects parts of the lagoon shore, causing the charming Costa da Lagoa village.

Trilha do Morro das Aranhas

Easy trail at Do beach Santinho, leads to ancient petroglyphs and rewarding ocean viewpoints.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Surfing: Praia da Joaquina, Praia Mole, Barra da Lagoa, Campeche offer consistent waves. Lessons are available.
  • Kite-surfing & Windsurfing: Lagoa da Conceição is ideal, especially with strong winds. Rentals and lessons available.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Enjoy on the calm waters of Lagoa da Conceição or protected beaches.
  • Boat Trips: Numerous operators offer trips around the bay, to the islands (Ilha do Campeche, Anhatomirim), or sunset cruises. Find tours on GetYourGuide.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

  • Good snorkeling around Ilha do Campeche.
  • Advanced diving at Arvoredo Island Marine Biological Reserve (authorized operators).
  • Discover underwater life.

Paragliding

  • Launch from Mirante da Lagoa.
  • Breathtaking aerial views of the lagoon and coastline.
  • Tandem flights available with experienced instructors.

Sandboarding

  • Glide down the massive Dunas da Joaquina.
  • Boards available for rent straight at the dunes.
  • Enjoyable for everyone.

Safety & Regulations

For activities like scuba diving in marine reserves, utilize authorized tour operators. Always heed local alerts and weather conditions. Prioritize safety during all adventures.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in the rich Azorean and Brazilian culture of Florianópolis through various engaging experiences.

Workshops & Classes

  • Traditional Lacemaking ("renda de bilro"): Learn this Azorean craft from local artisans.
  • Capoeira: Participate in this Brazilian martial art combining dance, acrobatics, and music.
  • Samba: Take lessons to learn the iconic Brazilian dance, often offered at regional arts centers.
  • Other Local Crafts: Explore occasional workshops in pottery, painting, or other artisanal skills.

Cultural Performances

Capoeira Exhibitions

Witness or participate in Capoeira rodas (performances) at local academies or public spaces.

Live Samba Music

Enjoy live samba music and dancing in bars and during cultural events, especially festivals.

Boi de Mamão

A traditional folklore dance performance featuring a giant ox figure, prominent during local festivals.

Community-Based Tourism

Exploring coastal fishing villages like Santo Antônio de Lisboa, Ribeirão da Ilha, and Costa da Lagoa provides direct insights into traditional Azorean culture. Support local businesses here.

Language Learning

Portuguese language schools cater to foreigners, especially in the Lagoa da Conceição area, for those wishing to deepen their immersion.

Cultural Festivals

Attend Fenaostra (Oyster Festival in October) or Festa da Tainha (Mullet Festival, May-July) for unique food, music, and cultural presentations.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find tranquility and rejuvenation amidst Florianópolis's natural beauty and serene environments.

Spa & Retreats

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: Many luxury accommodations and resorts offer full-service spas with a range of treatments.
  • Natural Therapy Options: While no hot springs, some centers offer mud baths or other natural treatments.
  • Yoga & Meditation Retreats: Several studios and occasional retreats operate in serene settings, especially southern beaches and Lagoa.
  • Traditional Healing Practices: Local herbalists or traditional healers might offer alternative wellness approaches.

Beach Clubs & Experiences

Jurerê Internacional Beach Clubs

Famous for private beach clubs like P12 and Cafe de La Musique, featuring DJs and luxurious party atmospheres.

Pools & Amenities

These venues often include expansive pools, cabanas, and premium services for a high-end experience.

Bottle Service & VIP Areas

Enjoy VIP treatment with dedicated bottle service and exclusive areas for an elevated party experience.

Unique Relaxation Spots

Costa da Lagoa Serenity

Find ultimate tranquility in the boat-accessed village of Costa da Lagoa, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.

Southern Beaches Calm

The less crowded southern sandy spots like Campeche or Lagoinha do Leste offer a peaceful escape for relaxation.

Lagoon Viewpoints

Enjoy quiet moments and stunning views from various points around Lagoa da Conceição, particularly at dusk.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Florianópolis comes alive after dark, offering diverse entertainment options for every taste.

Live Music & Arts

  • Lagoa da Conceição: Numerous bars with live music, featuring MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), rock, electronic, and jazz.
  • Centro: Some bars and cultural spaces offer live music events, catering to a diverse audience.
  • Jurerê Internacional: Upscale venues often feature live DJs and electronic music, notably during the high season.
  • Theater & Performance Spaces: Teatro Ademir Rosa and Teatro Álvares de Carvalho host plays, concerts, and cultural events.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Jurerê Internacional Clubs

Renowned for high-end clubs attracting international DJs and celebrities, especially during summer months.

Lagoa da Conceição Bars

Offers more casual clubs and bars with diverse music genres, providing a lively and accessible atmosphere.

Santo Antônio de Lisboa

Features charming waterfront bars, ideal for a relaxed evening with beautiful views and local ambiance.

Upscale Nightlife

Experience the glamorous and exclusive party scene of Jurerê Internacional, with top DJs and VIP services.

Bohemian Vibes

Lagoa da Conceição offers a more bohemian and casual nightlife, with a mix of bars and clubs catering to all tastes.

Relaxed Evenings

For a quieter evening, enjoy the charm of Santo Antônio de Lisboa with its waterfront bars and sunset views.

Nightlife Safety

Remain alert, especially in crowded areas. Travel with friends or use reputable transport. Avoid walking alone at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings.

Shopping & Markets

Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and fashion in Florianópolis's diverse shopping landscape.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Mercado Público: Best for fresh seafood, local produce, cheeses, spices, and artisan crafts. Authentic shopping experience.
  • Artisan Workshops & Crafts: Explore shops in Santo Antônio de Lisboa and Ribeirão da Ilha for traditional Azorean lace ("renda de bilro"), ceramics, and other local crafts.
  • Casa da Alfândega: In the Centro, has a number of artisan stores, excellent for authentic souvenirs and local artwork.

Souvenir Ideas

Azorean Lace Items

Look for intricate handmade "renda de bilro" as an unique cultural souvenir.

Local Cachaça

Brazil's national spirit, a distilled sugarcane liquor, makes for a special gift.

Island Artwork

Artwork depicting local scenes, landscapes, or cultural motifs offers lasting memories.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Jurerê Internacional and parts of the city center host boutique stores.
  • Find exclusive brands and upscale fashion.

Shopping Malls

  • Major malls like Beiramar Shopping and Shopping Iguatemi.
  • Selection of international and national brands.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans directly to ensure fair prices.
  • Seek out products made from sustainable materials.

International Shipping Guidelines

Shipping Items Home
  • Be aware of Brazilian customs regulations.
  • Potential import taxes can be high.
  • Save all receipts for your purchases.
Customs Information
  • Check your home country's import limits for personal goods.
  • Specific items may have limitations for international shipping.
  • Consult with shipping providers for guidance on required documentation.

Local Shopping Experience

Embrace the opportunity to find unique, handmade items that reflect the island's culture. Always be polite and engaging, and you will find a more enriching experience.

Activity Planning Summary

Recommended Activities

  • Hiking to Lagoinha do Leste for stunning coastal views.
  • Engaging in water sports like surfing, SUP, or kite-surfing at Lagoa da Conceição.
  • Exploring the cultural heritage through artisan workshops and local festivals.
  • Relaxing on beautiful beaches or visiting wellness centers for rejuvenation.

Seasonal Considerations

  • High Season (Dec-Feb) means larger crowds and higher prices for activities.
  • Whale Watching is optimal from July to October in areas south of Florianópolis.
  • Tainha (Mullet) Festival runs from May to July, celebrating the seasonal fish.
  • Wind and kite-surfing conditions are best when stronger winds prevail, typically outside the calmest summer months.