Florianópolis, or Floripa as it is affectionately known, is located on the Southeast coast of Brazil. It is the capital of the Santa Catarina state with half of the city sitting on the mainland and the other half on the ocean island of Santa Catarina.
Two bridges join the exceptionally beautiful island with the South American continent. Attracting surfers, sun worshipers and party lovers this holiday destination is popular with Brazilian tourists and international visitors alike. It boasts excellent beaches, stunning scenery, interesting culture, friendly people and delicious cuisine.
1. Excellent Beaches
With a total of 42 beautiful beaches stretching across pretty much all of the Northern, Eastern and Southern coasts of Santa Catarina, there are plenty to choose from. The Northern beaches are the most developed and get very busy during summer months, while the eastern beaches cater to a younger crowd and surfers seeking good waves. The southern beaches are typically more isolated and unspoiled, with some only being reached via a hike through the lush green rain forest.
2. A Surfer's Paradise
Owing to its miles of pristine coastline and powerful beach breaks, there are many major surfing events held annually in Floripa. It is also the hometown of professional surfer Jacqueline Silva. There are, however, a tremendous variety of waves that cater to all levels, so it's a great place to learn to surf if you haven't tried it before. The beaches of Praia Mole, Joaquina, Campeche and Lagoinha de Leste should be top of any surf lovers' list.
3. Stunning Scenery
The vast 208,000 acres of Serra do Tabuleiro Park is a mountainous area, protected by the state because it's an important source of drinking water for the island. It is readily accessible for visitors though and offers many enjoyable trails through the lush green, seemingly endless forests. Take a break to explore the many old Portuguese fortresses and climb the Mirante Morro de Cruz for some breathtaking views of the city.
4. Interesting Culture
While the mainland and northern territory of Santa Catarina are thriving hubs of commercial and tourist services, the Southern part of the island is traditionally more rural and remains resistant to the advances of modern life.
Remaining sparsely inhabited, it has retained its custom fishing and Azorean craft making antiquities. Florianópolis is also known for its sports-crazy culture - wind surfing, paragliding and sandboarding are big here. Try keeping up with the locals and join in a game of beach soccer, but be sure to enjoy the laid back culture of regular coffee breaks and beach lounging.
5. Friendly People
The people of Floripa are well-known for being both gorgeous and exotic looking, but in line with much of the rest of Brazil they are also very friendly and welcoming. They embrace visitors and are keen to ensure that you have a fabulous time by suggesting the best hang outs and most beautiful beaches.
Happy and generous, in this smile-abundant capital it would be difficult to visit and not make any new friends. The Mercado Publico is a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike, with restaurants lining the streets outside, this place is buzzing long after the market closes.
6. A Party Lover's Bliss
The beautiful city is also known for its party-loving atmosphere. During the summer months the beaches are lively and passionate hives of activity late into the night. For the cooler summer months, the Floripa party moves to the more central hangouts around Lagoa da Conceição. At these hip and classy bars and clubs it's guaranteed that you won't be able to resist the fun and frolics of dancing the Samba late into the night.
7. Foodie Heaven
The local delicacy is a feast called Sequência de Camarão, a huge dish of seafood appetizers usually including fish, crab, muscles, octopus and shrimp. A delectable dish of oysters baked in cheese is also big here.
Then you have the savory or sweet snacks of tapioca with any combination of filling you can imagine washed down by the Brazilian staple of rich, dark, strong coffee. Don't miss out on the treat of the Açai fruit, served as a thick smoothie with a topping of granola it makes for a great breakfast. You won't go hungry along the beach either with portable mini BBQ sellers serving succulent cuts all day long.
Whether you're a beach bum, a sport fanatic, a party animal, a foodie, or a combination of them all, there's plenty on offer for you in Floripa!
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