Holiday in Florianópolis

What makes Florianópolis special as a destination?

Florianópolis — or "Floripa," as the Brazilians affectionately say — is an island city on the southern coast of Brazil, regarded as one of the best surf and beach destinations in South America. The capital of the state of Santa Catarina connects 42 beaches with lush Atlantic vegetation, crystal-clear lagoons, and a quality of life that regularly ranks among the highest in Brazil. The beaches of Floripa are incredibly diverse. In the east, Atlantic waves crash on Praia da Joaquina and Praia Mole — Brazil's surf mecca with international competitions and a young, sporty scene. In the north, Jurerê Internacional attracts with luxury beach clubs reminiscent of Ibiza. In the south, Campeche and Lagoinha do Leste offer wild, less-developed beaches with rainforest as a backdrop. Lagoa da Conceição is the cultural heart of the island — a huge lagoon surrounded by dunes, restaurants, and nightlife. Here, bars, live music venues, and restaurants serve fresh oysters from nearby oyster farms. Floripa produces 80% of all oysters in Brazil, and the quality is excellent. The historic center on the mainland surprises with colonial architecture, the lively Mercado Público, and a burgeoning gastronomy scene. The Azorean heritage of the city is reflected in the architecture, fishing villages, and festivals — the ancestors of many Floripanos came from the Azores in the 18th century. Floripa is also a paradise for outdoor activities: hikes through the Mata Atlântica to hidden beaches, stand-up paddling on the lagoon, paragliding from Morro da Lagoa, and sandboarding on the Joaquina dunes. In the Brazilian summer (December to February), the island transforms into a huge party — the population doubles with tourists from all over Brazil and Argentina.