Florianópolis, known as the “island of magic”, stands out for its impressive natural beauty. Located in the south of Brazil, this city combines more than 100 beaches spread across its mainland territory, the large island of Santa Catarina, and small islets. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), it covers an area of over 674 km².
Throughout the year, Florianópolis attracts numerous tourists, but its peak season is in the summer when visitors from all over Brazil and neighboring countries like Argentina and Uruguay flock to its beaches.
The summer of 2025 brought a significant increase in international tourism. According to data from the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism, Santa Catarina experienced a 71.7% increase in foreign tourists, with a special emphasis on Florianópolis and nearby cities like Blumenau, Joinville, Garopaba, and Penha.
Touring the beaches of Florianópolis.
Must-visit Beaches in Florianópolis
The city is home to iconic beaches that captivate with their natural diversity. Here are the five options selected by National Geographic that stand out for their unique charm:
1. Joaquina Beach: Surfers’ paradise
Famous for its strong and long waves, Joaquina is an ideal destination for surfers and nature lovers. Located in the east of the island, 15 km from downtown, it offers not only water sports but also sand dunes, beach tennis courts, and an archaeological site revealing the indigenous past of the region. Its location also makes it a privileged spot to enjoy unforgettable sunrises.
2. Mole Beach: Favorite among the youth
Located in the Lagoa da Conceição neighborhood, Mole Beach is known for its vibrant youthful atmosphere, fine sand, and crystal-clear waters. Besides being perfect for surfing, it has tourist infrastructure, music festivals, and a strategic location just 15.5 km from the city center.
3. Campeche Beach and Island: A unique duo
In the south area of Florianópolis, Campeche Beach is ideal for families and activities like kitesurfing and hiking. Facing this beach is Campeche Island, a sanctuary of transparent waters and biodiversity. In 2025, access to the island is regulated to protect its ecosystem and rock inscriptions, allowing only 800 visitors per day with prior reservation.
4. Lagoinha do Leste: Nature and adventure
Located in the southeast of the island, this secluded beach is a hidden treasure that requires hikes of at least 3 km to reach. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and a lagoon, Lagoinha do Leste offers an immaculate setting within the Atlantic Forest. Its crystal-clear sea and the tranquility of its lagoon make the effort worthwhile.
5. Santo Antônio de Lisboa: History and sunset
In this historic fishermen’s neighborhood, colonial houses and seafood restaurants frame the beach with calm waters. Santo Antônio de Lisboa is perfect for enjoying a magical sunset followed by a dinner with typical local cuisine.
Florianópolis, with its blend of history, adventure, and spectacular landscapes, remains one of the most charming destinations in Brazil, attracting more travelers from all over the world.
Beaches to explore in Florianópolis.
What are the characteristics that make Florianópolis a natural paradise?
Florianópolis, in Brazil, has natural features such as:
- Beaches: it is known for its many beaches facing the mainland with calm waters.
- Restinga: the restinga is vegetation that stabilizes the soil and gives the island its current shape. A clear example is the Parque Estadual Rio Vermelho, a place with humid forest and restinga.
- Dunes: these can be found along the beach, either mobile or semi-fixed.
- Forests: the Municipal Natural Park of Lagoa do Peri is a biological reserve with forests ideal for hiking.
- Parks: this place has the Aparados da Serra National Park which hides canyons, cliffs, waterfalls, and vegetation, and the Serra do Tabuleiro State Park is a park that protects the restinga.
- Geography: Florianópolis is divided into a coastal island and a continental peninsula. The geography of this place makes it one of the main beach destinations in Brazil.
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