Introduction
Florianópolis, affectionately known as the “Magic Island,” is a destination that enchants with its diversity of attractions. From paradisiacal beaches to historic sites, the city offers a complete experience for those seeking contact with nature, rich culture and mouth-watering cuisine. If you are planning to visit Florianópolis, there are certain places that are unmissable and that reveal the true charm of this unique place. In this guide, we will present the main attractions that you cannot miss during your stay in Floripa.
Regions of Floripa
Florianópolis is a city with over 901,000 square miles of territory located on an island, which is quite large. To make the most of what the city has to offer, it is useful to get to know it by region. Divided into the Center, North, South, East and West, each area has its own unique characteristics and attractions. If you are short on time, such as a weekend or a few days, dividing your visit by region can help optimize your itinerary and ensure that you see the essential points.
Eastern Region:
If you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Florianópolis, the East Region is where the magic happens! This part of the island is the heart of natural attractions, filled with breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities that will delight all nature lovers. Check out the highlights that will make your heart beat faster:
Conception Lake: In the heart of Florianópolis, the Conceição Lagoon is the perfect meeting point between nature and outdoor activities. Surrounded by beaches, dunes and mountains, this is the largest lagoon in the city and offers a multitude of water sports, such as kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and kite surfing. For those who love a good walk, the trails around the lagoon vary in difficulty and provide stunning views. And that's not all! Lagoa da Conceição is also rich in history and culture, with preserved colonial buildings and a vibrant cultural scene. The small villages around it, such as Centrinho and Lagoon Coast, offer a unique cultural experience. If you are driving, park in the city center and explore the area on foot for an even more complete immersion.
Joaquina Dunes: To the Joaquina Dunes are a true natural playground! With their fine white sands, they offer incredible panoramic views of the sea, Campeche Island and the local vegetation. The main attraction here is the sandboarding, so rent your board and get ready to slide down the dunes. It's an exciting and unforgettable experience that will leave you with stories to tell!
Southern Region
The southern region of Florianópolis is a true treasure trove of natural beauty and historical charm, offering a rich experience in both landscapes and culture. One of the unmissable highlights is the Ribeirão da Ilha.
This charming district is home to the Ribeirao Beach, which stretches from Riacho da Gruta to Riacho do Seu Rita, divided into two sections, the largest and most significant being the residential area. Although its waters are not ideal for swimming, the beach has clean, clear sands, perfect for walking and leisure moments. Ribeirão da Ilha is not only a place of natural beauty, but also carries a rich history. Colonized by the Azoreans, the district played a vital role as a loading and unloading port during colonization, and fishing was the main economic activity in the region for more than two centuries. In addition to its historical importance, Ribeirão da Ilha stands out as one of the main gastronomic centers of the island and one of the largest producers of oysters in Brazil. The combination of history, culture and gastronomy makes Ribeirão da Ilha an essential visit for those who want to explore the south of the island in depth and pleasure.
East Lagoon: If you are a true adventurer, Lagoinha do Leste is your paradise! Imagine a place where the sea, the river, the lagoon and the mountains meet in a breathtaking landscape. Access is via trails that range from 3 km to 5 km, depending on your starting point. If you are looking for a shorter adventure, the trail from South Swamp is perfect. For a longer and more rewarding journey, start with Matadeiro beach and get ready for a spectacular panoramic view of the beach. Lagoinha do Leste is the ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of busy beaches and connect deeply with nature. Remember to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water, food and wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the trail. And to ensure an even safer and more enriching experience, consider hiring a local guide.
Campeche Island: Prepare to be dazzled by the Campeche Island, a true treasure on the east coast of Santa Catarina Island! With its crystal clear waters, untouched beaches and diverse fauna and flora, it is the perfect place for adventures such as diving, snorkeling and hiking. In addition to its cinematic beauty, the island is an archaeological site with rock inscriptions that tell prehistoric stories of the region. Access to the island is controlled to preserve this paradise, and the maximum number of visitors per day is limited. You can get there by boat from Campeche Beach, Armação Beach or Barra da Lagoa Beach, with travel times ranging from 5 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes. Be sure to plan your visit in advance to explore this true paradise of Santa Catarina. (We have more information HERE!)
Western Region:
Although less touristy, the West Region of Florianópolis offers an immersion into the local culture and history of the city. It is the ideal place for those who want to explore more authentic and everyday aspects of the island. And our tip is to visit Saint Anthony of Lisbon.
Located in the North Bay of Florianópolis, Santo Antônio Beach in Lisbon is a true paradise, known for its welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. With a length of 750 meters and a width ranging from 2 to 40 meters, the beach offers yellowish sands and spectacular views that stretch from Riacho Colombo to Pedra do Padre. The beach is a perfect destination for water sports and a relaxing day by the sea. Fishing is a traditional activity in the region, and Santo Antônio de Lisboa was a pioneer in mariculture in Santa Catarina, bringing prosperity to the local community. In addition, the region's cuisine, especially oyster-based dishes, is a must-see for seafood lovers.
The community of Santo Antônio de Lisboa is a historical and cultural center of the island, with centuries-old buildings and artisans who preserve the Azorean heritage. The sunset in Santo Antônio de Lisboa is one of the most beautiful on the island, offering an unmissable visual spectacle. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, the Feira das Alfaias, held in central square, presents art, crafts and antiques, further enriching the cultural experience at Santo Antônio de Lisboa Beach. Unmissable, right?
Center of the Island:
If you’re in Florianópolis and want to immerse yourself in the essence of the city, the city center is the perfect place to explore. Here, history, culture, and gastronomy come together in iconic and vibrant locations. Check out the highlights you can’t miss:
Public Market: Located in the heart of the historic center, the Public market The Florianópolis Market is a true icon of the city. Its century-old building not only beautifies the region, but is also a vibrant hub of local life and culture. With a diverse selection of fruits, vegetables, fresh fish, handicrafts and souvenirs, the market is ideal for those who want to try the region's typical cuisine. Be sure to enjoy a shrimp pastel or fried fish at one of the many bars and restaurants, and enjoy the lively atmosphere with live music while you shop.
Around XV Square: For a deep dive into the history and culture of Florianópolis, the Praça da Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Desterro is a must-see. Also known as Praça XV de Novembro, is the historical epicenter of the city, where the first streets were laid out, urban life unfolds, and where the famous Centennial Fig Tree. Already the Cathedral of Our Lady of Exile, majestic and imposing, is the true jewel of the square. Originally built in 1673 and with its current version completed in 1773, the cathedral is one of the oldest and most significant landmarks in Florianópolis, with an impressive façade and an interior full of art and history. Take advantage of your visit to explore the Cruz e Souza Palace, an elegant historic building that houses a museum about the art and history of Santa Catarina.
Florianópolis Museum: Next to Praça XV, the Museum of Florianopolis offers a comprehensive and interactive view of the city in several dimensions – historical, geographical, cultural and symbolic. Combining traditional elements with modern technologies, the museum explores the urban evolution and historical memory of Florianópolis, offering permanent exhibitions divided into 6 modules and a program of temporary exhibitions. Housed in two buildings, including the historic townhouse of the former Town Hall and Jail (1771) and a modern administrative building (2015), the museum provides a complete experience, including the Museum Café.
Hercílio Luz Bridge: Impossible not to mention the Hercílio Luz Bridge, one of the greatest symbols of Florianópolis. Opened in 1926, this bridge was the largest suspension bridge in the world, with its impressive length of 821 meters. Paying homage to former governor Hercílio Luz, it was for decades the only connection between the mainland and Santa Catarina Island. After extensive restoration, the bridge reopened in 2019, allowing visitors to walk across it and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the north and south bays. More than just a historical landmark, it is an excellent spot for cultural tours and to understand the rich history of Florianópolis.
Northern Region:
The North Region of Florianópolis is famous for its beaches (Jurerê, Canasvieiras, Bom Jesus Waterfall, Ponta das Canas, English, Brava, Lagoinha do Norte, Little saint) and a vibrant nightlife, providing a diverse experience for all tastes. Among the highlights of this region, the São José da Ponta Grossa Fortress stands out not only for its historical value, but also for its privileged location and the charm it offers to visitors.
Fortress of Saint Joseph of Ponta Grossa: Built in 1740, the Fortress of Sao Jose da Ponta Grossa is one of the main fortifications of colonial Brazil and a historical treasure located between the beaches of Jurerê It is Praia do Forte. With impressive architecture, consisting of three stepped terracings and a chapel still in use, the fortress offers stunning views of the North Bay and is equipped with three cannon batteries and 31 artillery pieces. Recently restored and managed by the Federal University of Santa Catarina, the fortress provides a rich historical experience and an immersion in the local nature, being an essential visit for those who wish to explore the history and natural beauty of the Island, located just 25 km from the center of Florianópolis.
Conclusion
Florianópolis is a true treasure trove, with countless incredible places waiting to be discovered. We have gathered here the places that we think you cannot miss, but remember: Floripa has much more to reveal! Our website is your complete guide to exploring the city, with tips on what to do in each region, where to taste local delights and where to stay to make your stay even more unforgettable. When visiting these fantastic places, take lots of photos and share your experiences by tagging us on Instagram @VisiteFloripaWe look forward to seeing your adventures and helping to show the best of Floripa to the world!
