When I did a simple search for where to go in Brazil, Florianópolis kept coming up. There are more western digital nomads relocating there, and I see why.
Floripa feels a lot like Portugal’s Azores—which makes sense. When Portugal colonized Brazil, settlers from the Azores were brought here to manage land. If you’ve been to the Azores and then come to Floripa, the cultural similarities are hard to miss, even the volcanic landscape, the slower rhythm.
I spent two weeks here. And while there were moments when it felt slow, even boring. In hindsight, I was the most relaxed I’ve been in years.
I slept eight hours every night. I had no worries except what hike, what beach and swim I’d do that day. Floripa wasn’t very exciting, but it was hella restorative.
Language, Culture, & Getting Around
I had just spent six weeks in Rio de Janeiro taking Portuguese lessons, so by the time I arrived here to Floripa, I was conversational and ready. But, Portuguese isn’t really necessary in Floripa, most people speak English well.
The island has a noticeable health and wellness culture, similar to Hawaii. You’ll see açai everywhere (as you should — this is Brazil), along with supplement shops, organic everything, and juice bars just a part of daily life.
If you’re travelling from top to bottom, Uber prices are about $15 USD on car, and maybe $7 USD on moto. I took mostly motos around the city, if I was travellig a short distance, it was as low as $1.5. I wouldn’t rent a car here, unless you like driving and just want to ride in style.
Where to Stay in Florianópolis
I stayed in Lagoa da Conceição, and I think it’s the best base.
It’s central, scenic, and well-connected to beaches and hikes. I went to Centro only once and immediately knew I wouldn’t be back, it’s congested, hectic, and not my vibe. That said, sunset at the bridge in Centro is beautiful.
If your priority is meeting other travelers, most organized meetups (Timeleft, Nomad Table, etc.) tend to happen in Centro, so that’s worth considering.
The Best Hikes in Florianópolis
Floripa is a hiker’s island. I did nearly all the major trails — these are the standouts.
Trilha Lagoinha do Leste (Must-Do)
The best hike, no question. I did it solo and it took nearly seven hours. I took a break to lay on the beach, didn’t bring water or snacks which was very foolish but it was the most diverse in terrain, and difficult hike on the island for sure. If you only do one hike in Florianópolis and you’re physically up for it, make it this one.
Trilha da Costa da Lagoa (Favorite Overall Experience)
It’s about four miles, and the terrain changes alot, for the better. Some parts you’re scrambling through jungle, others like you’re strolling through a small village. You’ll pass a waterfall (grossly affected by people’s sunscreen and overuse), but if you walk all the way to the end you’ll get to tons of restaurants.
We ate at Restaurante Cabral Parador 19, the final restaurant at the end of the trail, and the most upscale. If I went again, I’d try one of the mid-range spots too.
Trilha para Galheta
A perfect balance hike: about 30 minutes uphill, immediate panoramic views, then a descent to a secluded beach only accessible on foot. Quiet, firm sand, ideal for a picnic. From Galheta, you can continue walking to Mole Beach, which has more people because of it’s drive-up access.
Lighthouse Hike – Barra da Lagoa
An easy hike with great views… except I got lost and never found the lighthouse. An Uber driver told me he does it weekly for sunrise and sunset. I somehow managed to miss the lighthouse entirely, which I know is personal flaw. Go do what I could not.
Beaches Worth Visiting
I visited every major beach on the island. Here are the best:
Prai da Barra da Lagoa
If you’re staying in Lagoa – which I recommend, this is the closest beach and it’s the most normal and delivers. Nice sand, nice waves, some vendors but not too many that it’s annoying. Just overall favorite.
Galheta Beach – Mole Beach – Gravatá Beach
I clumped these 3 together on the same day. Hike to Galheta (the only way to get there) continue walking to Mole – which is the option to drive up directly to it – then continue hiking to Gravata – another beach only accessible by hiking. tiny beach with beautiful boulders. \
Jurerê
Upscale, polished, and noticeably resort-adjacent. Cafés are more expensive and modern, and the crowd reflects that. The beach itself is very nice.
From there, I walked to Daniela Beach, which locals recommended. It’s family-heavy, with kids and picnic coolers everywhere. Warm, shallow water — but a low priority for me personally.
Mozambique Beach
Quiet, expansive, and peaceful. A great place to decompress. Theres this natural little pockets of tiny beach in the hills and I saw a lot of couples driving up and just taking of the little corner to BBQ.
Campeche Beach
Great views of Campeche Island from here. Not crowded at all and I went multiple times. Requires a short walk or hike to access. Go after eating at Cumbuca restaurant.
Where to Eat & Drink in Floripa
Food on the island is a bit hit-or-miss overall, but these places stood out.
Nosso Café
A generous breakfast buffet for around $20 USD. Excellent quality, warm service, cows grazing in the distance. Ideal before heading to Praia da Barra da Lagoa.
Um Tributo ao Café
Excellent coffee. Great service. No notes.
Palatooh
Fine dining with a great view for sunset, thoughtful dishes, well executed.
Rosso
Right on the water, great for groups. Strong food and service.
Mercado São Jorge
A wellness market, that has a cafe, and also a high-quality buffet inside. They have nearly perfect Google reviews, and deservedly so. Slightly expensive for locals, but worth it.
Otto Café (Jurerê)
Small menu, good drinks, and Otto the dog greets guests. Enough said.
Ostradamus
This place is listed Floripa’s best restaurants, but a local told me it’s overrated and suggested Rosso instead. I didn’t actually go but the reviews are very good so wanted to mention it nonetheless.
Final Thoughts on Florianópolis
For me, Floripa is one of my favorite places.
It may feel slow in the moment, but in retrospect, it’s exactly what I needed.