Beaches & Culture in Brazil's Coastal City of Florianópolis - 8 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Florianópolis, Optional Activities

Welcome to Brazil! Upon arrival in Florianópolis, the capital of Brazil's Santa Catarina state, a driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in the city. Florianópolis, also known as Floripa, is divided between the urban buzz of the mainland's bustling streets lined with markets and historic landmarks and Santa Catarina island's pristine beaches stretched along its coastline.

After settling in, spend your day sunbathing, snorkeling, paragliding, hiking, or island hopping. Consider starting at Joaquina Beach for its excellent surfing conditions or trekking through the trails of Parque Estadual do Rio Vermelho. As the sun sets, try the seafood at Mocotó da Ilha for dinner or experience traditional Brazilian barbecue at Churrascaria Ataliba. End your day with live music and cocktails at Confraria das Artes, a lively nightclub offering a taste of Florianópolis' energetic nightlife scene. 

Day 2: Full-Day Florianópolis Tour

This morning, you'll meet your guide for a full day of exploration in Floripa. Start at the city's historic center and then visit Ponte Hercilio Luz, the first bridge linking Santa Catarina to the mainland and one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Head to the lagoon, Lagoa da Conceição, beloved by locals for its calm waters and lined by historical neighborhood houses. Consider renting a standup paddleboard or kayak to explore the lagoon's hidden coves and tranquil waters at your own pace. 

Afterward, head to the enclave of Barra da Lagoa. This charming fishing village, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Lagoa da Conceição, is your lunch stop where you can a local eatery to savor one of the city's best shrimp dishes. As your day comes to a close, your guide will drop you off at your hotel to prepare for tomorrow's full-day exploration of the south of the island. 

Day 3: Azorean Community Visit, Explore the South of the Island

Rise early this morning to learn about the Azorean culture at Ribeirão da Ilha. This historic village is one of the oldest settlements on the island of Santa Catarina, dating back to the 16th century when Portuguese settlers established fishing communities along the coast. Today, you can see its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses adorned with bougainvillea flowers, and traditional fishing boats dotting the shoreline. Be sure to stop for photos at the Mirante do Convento do Morro das Pedras viewpoint, named after a historic convent that once stood as a prominent landmark in the area.

Then, you'll proceed to Lagoa do Peri Park, one of the remaining sections of the Atlantic Forest and the largest freshwater lagoons on the coast of Santa Catarina. Enjoy this ecological sanctuary's diverse flora and fauna and opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and swimming. Pass by the Praia da Armação, a coastal village that was once a bustling center for whaling activities in the 18th century. Afterward, enjoy the beautiful beach of Pântano do Sul and its traditional way of life, quaint cottages, and friendly locals. 

Day 5: Discover Balneário Camburiú City

Today, you'll travel two hours north to Balneário Camburiú, a bustling city within Santa Catarina, to enjoy a full day exploring its modern infrastructure and coastal vistas. Begin with a tour along Balneário Camburiú's main avenues, culminating at Pontal Norte. If you're up for a thrill, ride the iconic Roda Gigante (The Big Wheel) and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Continue to the tourist area of Barra Sul, where you'll see the scenic Molhe, a structure extending into the ocean.

Spend some time exploring this historic area from the water on the Barco Pirata, a pirate-themed boat tour, or relax in Parque Unipraias, a park that connects two beaches and offers recreational activities and scenic viewpoints. Later in the day, dine at one of the city's eclectic restaurants, sampling local seafood or international cuisine. Afterward, your driver will return you to your hotel in Floripa.

Day 6: Experience Brazil's German Heritage in Blumenau

Drive three hours inland to observe the rich Germanic heritage of Blumenau, a city founded by German immigrants in the 19th century. Begin by exploring the historic center before wandering through the Biergarten and Beer Museum. The Museu da Família Colonial (The Colonial Family Museum) exhibits artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings. Gain insights into the daily lives of early German settlers as you explore recreated period rooms and learn about the challenges and triumphs of establishing a new life in Brazil.

Your next stop is Cemitério dos Gatos (Cemetery of Cats), known for its collection of cat sculptures and tombstones dedicated to beloved feline companions. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll down Alameda das Palmeiras (Palm Tree Avenue), a picturesque street lined with palm trees and colonial architecture. Next, venture to Vila Germânica Park, the central location of Blumenau's Germanic festivities, including the renowned Oktoberfest. Explore shops offering souvenirs and German-themed merchandise. Top off your day with a traditional German-inspired meal before returning to your accommodation. 

Day 7: Boat to Campeche Island, Hike in the Atlantic Forest

Your adventure begins early at Praia da Armação, a beach south of Florianópolis. After a 30-minute boat ride, you'll reach Campeche Island, soaking in panoramic views of three scenic beaches: Armação, with its soft white sands, and used as a starting point for boat excursions to nearby destinations; Morro das Pedras, which attracts surfers and beachgoers seeking adventure with its rocky shores; and the pristine Campeche Beach with clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. 

Upon arrival, an environmental monitor will guide you, providing information about the ecosystem, ensuring adherence to environmental regulations, and suggesting activities to appreciate and protect natural areas such as Campeche Island. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy hiking trails and finding ancient rock inscriptions as you explore the island's Atlantic Forest-covered hills. After enjoying the island, board the same boat back to Praia da Armação and then return to your hotel. Reflect on the natural beauty experienced on Campeche Island as you unwind in your accommodation. 

Day 8: Depart Florianópolis

It's time to say goodbye to Florianópolis! If time permits, stop by Mercado Público de Florianópolis for a bite or to pick up some artisan crafts and souvenirs before departing. Or, take a final stroll along the Beira Mar Norte promenade to soak up bay and skyline views. At the appropriate time, a driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. Safe Travels! 

More Great Brazil Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Brazil? Check out these other Brazil itineraries, explore different ways to spend eight days in Brazil, or discover the best time to visit Brazil.