Introduction
Florianópolis, the island of magic, is one of those destinations that captures travelers' hearts with its irresistible mix of stunning beaches, vibrant culture and a mouth-watering food scene. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what to do in Floripa, going beyond the golden sands to discover the charms and secrets that make this city unique. Let's explore together what the island has to offer at different times, from a day of exploration to a longer stay. Get ready for incredible adventures, delicious gastronomic experiences and, of course, tips to save money without missing out on the best that Floripa has to offer. Let's embark on this journey together!
What to do in Floripa besides the beach?
In Floripa, there is much more than just paradisiacal beaches waiting to be explored. We go beyond the coast and delve into a fascinating universe of history, culture and conservation projects.
Museums that tell stories: Floripa is rich in history, and its museums are true cultural treasures. I recommend a visit to Historical Museum of Santa Catarina, located in the charming Palácio Cruz e Sousa. There, you can travel back in time through exhibitions that narrate the island's trajectory from colonization to the present day. Another unmissable option is Museum of Florianopolis, there you will find several interactive exhibitions and learn more about the history of Florianópolis.
Historic center: Get lost in the cobblestone streets of the Historic Center of Florianópolis, where colonial mansions and centuries-old buildings tell the city's history. A Hercílio Luz Bridge, a local icon, offers stunning panoramic views of the central region and the mainland.
Churches that enchant: Floripa's churches are true architectural gems. A Metropolitan Cathedral, in the heart of the city, impresses with its grandeur. The Church of Our Lady of Necessities, in Santo Antônio de Lisboa, is a hidden treasure, with its charming Azorean architecture and serene atmosphere.
Conservation Projects: For wildlife lovers, a visit to the otter project it is a unique experience. Located at Armação Beach, this conservation project focuses on the rehabilitation and preservation of otters, offering visitors the opportunity to get to know these adorable animals up close and understand the efforts to protect them. Already in Barra da Lagoa, O Tamar project is a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of sea turtles. In addition to learning about these incredible creatures, you'll be able to witness conservation work in action. An educational and exciting visit for the whole family.
When exploring these attractions, you will discover that Floripa goes far beyond the beaches, revealing a cultural and environmental richness that makes this island a truly special destination.
What to do in Florianópolis in 1 day
If you only have one day to explore the city, here are some suggestions to optimize your time:
Morning:
– Joaquina beach: Start the day by exploring one of the most famous beaches in Florianópolis. Joaquina is known for its dunes and is a popular place for sports such as surfing.
– Conceição Lagoon: Head to Lagoa da Conceição for breakfast. We indicate the Coffee Culture which has a modern and welcoming atmosphere, and special coffees. From brunch to breakfast and afternoon, the mini-bistro style menu offers a complete and varied selection to suit your well-being.
Still in Lagoa, take the opportunity to discover the Sandboard Lagoon and enjoy the most fun activity on the island: skibunda.
Afternoon:
– Lagoon Lookout: After coffee and a good laugh in the dunes, take the opportunity to visit Mirante da Lagoa. Enjoy the panoramic view of Lagoa da Conceição and take some photos.
- Historic center: Visit the Praça XV de Novembro, The Metropolitan Cathedral, O Museum of Florianopolis, Historical Museum of Santa Catarina, O park of light and of course the famous Hercílio Luz Bridge.
For lunch we recommend the Rita Maria Warehouse, there you will find several options in an environment that housed an industrial complex from the end of the 19th century.
– Fort Santana: A late afternoon here is a spectacle in itself.
Night:
– Public market: Try typical dishes from the region, such as the famous “bolinho de bacalhau” and fresh seafood.
And to finish with a flourish, be sure to walk along Beira Mar Norte. You even have the option of renting a scooter and make the trip even more fun.
Remember, this is just a suggestion and you can adapt the itinerary to suit your personal interests. If possible, consider extending your stay to explore more beaches, trails and the rich culture of Florianópolis.
What to do in Floripa in 3 days
Day 1: Lagoon Coast and Barra da Lagoa
– Lagoa Coast: Spend the morning exploring Costa da Lagoa, go hiking or take a boat there. This is a more secluded and peaceful place where you can enjoy nature, visit lakeside restaurants and enjoy a serene environment. know how arrive by boat here, or how to perform the trail here!
– Lunch at Costa da Lagoa: If you want to try typical Floripa food, this is the place. And as a tip we have the Jajá's Restaurant which is at Point 16 of the Lagoon Coast. With his characteristic “manezinho” way and more than 20 years of experience, Jajá prepares incredible fish, he is an excellent fisherman, thus guaranteeing authenticity and knowledge in each dish served.
– Barra da Lagoa: Spend the afternoon exploring Barra da Lagoa. This area offers a beautiful beach, a picturesque suspension bridge and a charming fishing village. You can relax on the beach, visit Prainha da Barra da Lagoa, the Barra da Lagoa Canal, the natural pools and even explore the Tamar project, mentioned at the beginning of the text.
Day 2: Eastern Beaches with Visit to Fortresses
– Joaquina beach: Explore Praia da Joaquina in the morning, taking advantage of the dunes and natural environment.
- Lunch: A tip for lunch is the restaurant Parrilla on the side of Lagoa da Conceição. There they have prime cuts of beef that go well with roast pork and chicken, and an irresistible selection of side dishes.
– Afternoon Fortress of Sao Jose da Ponta Grossa: Visit this fortress to explore its historic facilities and learn about coastal defense in the past. It is situated between the beautiful beaches of Jurerê It is Praia do Forte, and can be accessed by land. Take the opportunity to visit the São Caetano Battery, built in 1765 with six cannons to protect the beach from Jurerê and the Fortress.
At the end of the day, you can return to Lagoa da Conceição for dinner and enjoy the nightlife in the area, if you wish. As an option we have the incredible Artesano pizzeria with an exclusive service in a welcoming environment, or the Rufus Bar – Experimental Beers which is the perfect place for those who want to get to know the local beer culture while enjoying a relaxed and lively atmosphere.
Day 3: Historic Center and South of the Island
- Historic center: Dedicate the morning to exploring the Historic Center of Florianópolis, including the Hercílio Luz Bridge and museums. Take the opportunity to have lunch at Public market.
– Campeche Beach: In the afternoon, head to Praia do Campeche to relax on the white sand and enjoy the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
– Morro das Pedras Beach Viewpoint: End the day at the Mirante da Praia do Morro das Pedras to enjoy the beautiful colors of the late afternoon and the beautiful landscape of the Armação Beach, Morro das Pedras Beach and the Campeche Island.
Accommodation Tip
Considering that most of the exploration will be concentrated in the eastern and central regions of the Island, we recommend staying in the eastern part for greater convenience. Below, we present some options according to different profiles:
Romantic: Essence of the Sun Pousada
If you are looking for an intimate and romantic stay, Essência do Sol Pousada is the ideal choice. Located among the dunes of Lagoa, the inn offers, in addition to rooms with bathtubs, breakfast, a heated pool and even a fire pit to make the experience even more special.
Economic: Hostel Farol da Barra
For a more economical option, Hostel Farol da Barra is perfect for travelers wanting an exceptional seaside experience. Located a short walk from Praia da Barra da Lagoa and next to the iconic Tamar Project, the hostel provides a unique experience in Barra da Lagoa.
Exclusive: Boutique Hotel Quinta das Videiras
If you are looking for an exclusive and sophisticated experience, the Boutique Hotel Quinta das Videiras is an unparalleled testament to charm. Let yourself be enchanted by the details of classic European works and enjoy the exclusive service offered by this unique accommodation.
These varied options ensure that you find the perfect environment to complement your stay in Florianópolis, whether you are looking for romance, economy or exclusivity.
What to do in 5 days in Florianópolis
With more time to enjoy, the Island will enchant you even more! Take these tips:
Day 1: Historic Center and Seaside
Start your day exploring the city's charming Historic Center. Visit the many museums that tell the rich local history, delving into the exhibits that reveal fascinating details of the past. Highlights include the Historical Museum of Santa Catarina, Museum of Florianopolis and the Victor Meirelles Museum.
Midday:
Take a lunch break at Public market, where you can taste a variety of local dishes and experience the region's authentic cuisine. This is also a great place to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and interact with locals.
Afternoon:
Continue your journey through Largo da Alfândega, a historic square surrounded by charming architecture and quaint shops. Don't forget to visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Square XV an imposing architectural landmark that offers a stunning insight into the city's history and religiosity.
In the late afternoon, walk along Beira-Mar, enjoying the sea breeze and panoramic views. For a more dynamic experience, try using electric scooters, a fun and efficient option for exploring the region.
Night:
To shake things up and finish with a bang, get to know the Dear Bar. Located by the sea, it promises to offer a different experience for tourists. There they have juices, drinks and food that are a true celebration of the gastronomic richness of Florianópolis.
Day 2: Dunes and Esquibunda
Morning:
Dedicate the morning to exploring the stunning beaches in the east of the island, starting with Joaquina and Campeche. Enjoy the natural beauty, walk along the white sand and dive into the crystal clear waters. Take time to relax and soak up the sun, whether swimming or simply enjoying the scenery.
Afternoon:
Reserve the afternoon for a unique adrenaline experience in the dunes with an Esquibunda tour offered by Sandboard Lagoon. “Esquibunda” is an exciting and accessible activity for all ages. When you purchase a board for around R$30.00, you will have the option of sliding down the dunes standing or sitting. If it's your first time, consider starting sitting down to get used to the excitement before trying standing up. Remember, falling into the sand is part of the fun!
Night:
When you finish your adventures in the dunes, choose from the local gastronomic options to enjoy a delicious meal. O Artesano Pizza Bar and the Forneria Gatto Nero They offer high quality pizza options and Italian dishes. If you are a fan of gelato, the Nicolini Gelato It's an excellent choice for desserts. For a relaxed atmosphere with varied options, the Rufus Bar It is the right option to end the day with good food and a high quality craft beer.
Day 3: Ribeirão da Ilha It is Saint Anthony of Lisbon
Morning:
Explore the charming Ribeirão da Ilha and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere provided by the preserved colonial architecture. This charming town, colonized by the Azoreans, has become one of the most beautiful parishes on the Island of Santa Catarina, consolidating itself as a historical and cultural point of great importance for the region. In addition to the stunning Ribeirão da Ilha Beach, take the opportunity to explore other tourist attractions in the area, such as the imposing Church of Our Lady of Lapa, the quiet Praia de Naufragados and the Viewpoint of Sertão do Ribeirão, which offers stunning views of the South Bay.
To try the oysters, the tip is to check out the restaurant Açoriano Ranch: a welcoming refuge that combines rustic with chic, offering a unique gastronomic experience in the Azorean style.
Afternoon:
Visit Saint Anthony of Lisbon, recognized for its historic buildings and rich Azorean heritage. This community, one of the oldest on the island, is a prominent Azorean cultural center. The streets are adorned with centuries-old buildings that are tourist attractions in their own right, and numerous artisans contribute to the region's vibrant atmosphere. On Saturdays (11am to 7pm), Sundays (11am to 6pm) and holidays, the Central Square hosts the Feira das Alfaias, displaying art, crafts and antiques.
Night:
When night falls, don't miss the opportunity to have dinner at Pitangueiras Restaurant in Santo Antônio de Lisbon. This establishment stands out for the freshness of its fish, oysters and seafood in general, providing a unique gastronomic experience while you enjoy the most beautiful sunset on Santa Catarina Island.
Day 4: Lagoa Coast
Morning:
Start your journey along the stunning Costa da Lagoa, immersing yourself in the natural exuberance of the Coastal Trail, also known as Caminho da Costa da Lagoa to Canto dos Araçás. This 5.75km route is a true delight for hiking lovers, providing a unique experience. Starting from Canto dos Araçás, lasting 2 hours, the trail reveals picturesque fishing communities and incredible landscapes that characterize the authenticity of the region.
For history enthusiasts, there are even more delights along the way. Between Points 09 and 10, discover the century-old Engenho de Farinha and, at Point 11, Dona Loquinha's mansion, providing a journey back in time. And for an additional historical touch, the “moleque feet” in the stretch between Points 4 and 5 are paving stones preserved since the 19th century, inviting you to walk in the footsteps of the past.
Also, don't miss the opportunity to explore Ponto 16, where the majestic Cachoeira da Costa awaits you. With an impressive waterfall approximately 10 meters high, this place offers a stunning landscape. However, it is important to take precautions when approaching the upper part of the waterfall. The stones can be slippery, and despite signs indicating prohibition, some people ignore the established limits, putting themselves at risk of serious accidents. Your safety is a priority.
Afternoon:
At the end of the trail, charming restaurants await you with delicious, fresh seafood. Here are some of them and their points:
Point 13: Bela Ilha Restaurant (I tried a wonderful dish there!)
Point 14: Mother's Heart
Point 15: Carapeva Restaurant
Point 16: Sabor da Costa Restaurant (I dare say it has the best grilled fish on the island!) and Jajá's Restaurant
Point 17: Lagoa Azul Restaurant
Point 18: Paraíso da Néia Restaurant
Point 19: Cabral Restaurant
Point 21: Fisherman's Restaurant
Return:
Your legs usually ask for a rest on the way back, and CooperBarco is there, ready to take you back. To plan properly, don't forget to check the schedules on CooperBarco's Instagram (Check it out here!). What about the cost? Nothing that will weigh on your pocket: R$12.50 each way.
If you want to know details about this tour of Costa da Lagoa, we have another well-explained text about the region: (Check it out here!)
Day 5: Boat Trip with South Scuna
To end your stay on a high note, there's nothing like exploring Florianópolis from a completely different angle, don't you agree? And your ideal partner for this experience is Scuna South – Center.
The starting point is Trapiche, located in the heart of downtown Floripa. However, we recommend scheduling your tour to confirm available departure times.
With almost four decades of experience in the tourism market, Scuna Sul stands out as a true pioneer in sea tours in the region. Their itineraries not only take you to the Fortresses of Anhatomirim and Ratones, but also provide a memorable journey as you pass the iconic Hercílio Luz Bridge, the enchanting Guarazes Island and the stunning Baía dos Golfinhos.
In addition to incredible panoramic views, this approximately 6-hour tour includes a strategic stop for a delicious lunch.
The cost of the tour is around R$150.00 and is available from Monday to Saturday, from 8:30am to 5pm, and on Sundays, from 8:30am to noon. Make sure to reserve this special moment to enjoy a unique and unforgettable nautical journey along the beautiful coast of Florianópolis.
Conclusion
In short, exploring Florianópolis is like embarking on an enchanting journey through the island of magic. In addition to stunning beaches, the city reveals its rich history, vibrant culture and incredible conservation projects. If you only have one day, make the most of the iconic beaches and sights. In three days, immerse yourself in history, culture and diverse nature. With five days, delve into unique experiences, such as exploring trails, dunes, and taking a boat trip with Scuna Sul. Regardless of the time you have, Florianópolis promises incredible adventures, delicious gastronomic experiences and, of course, lots of fun. So, get ready to explore this unique island and discover why it is truly MAGIC. Bon voyage!
