Lagoa is the best. I traveled all around Florianópolis, from Jurerê at the northern tip to Santo Antônio, the west side, and the southern beaches. Lagoa da Conceição still stands out as the best place to stay.
It’s central, it’s affordable and it’s chill. This post is all about where to eat and what to do in Lagoa. For hikes, beaches and the rest of the island, read my full Florianópolis travel guide.
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Where to Eat in Lagoa da Conceição
No Sleep Café
This specialty coffee spot has somehow become the hangout for foreigners and travelers. If you want to meet other English speakers or just sit around with other nomads, go here.
Café Cultura
It’s right across from No Sleep Café, and this big chain café is always packed with people working. People like to trash the coffee, but it’s still a popular work spot for digital nomads.
Café Decor
Think turmeric kombucha and boho forest vibes. It’s cozy, a little hidden, and very family friendly. I liked it for a slow afternoon.
Messkla
A tucked-away café with good food and a chill atmosphere. Go here if you want somewhere quieter.
Rocambole Café
I’m obsessed with pão de queijo, and Rocambole has the best I’ve found. Try the one with cheese, tomato and basil.
Café Sunrise
I had one of the best, thickest hot chocolates of my life here.
Paraense Culinária
Everyone should try açaí at least once in its pure form, with no sugar and no toppings, and this is one of the places that serves it properly. I ordered the crab and duck coxinhas, plus shrimp vatapá. Nothing fancy, just good service and good food.
- A coxinha is a Brazilian snack you’ll find literally everywhere. It’s a teardrop-shaped croquette filled with shredded meat (usually chicken, but also duck, crab or other fillings), wrapped in soft dough, then breaded and fried.
- Vatapá is a creamy stew from the north and northeast of Brazil, with Afro-Brazilian roots. It’s made with shrimp, bread, coconut milk, palm oil (dendê), peanuts and spices, and usually served with rice.
Yama Sushi
Surprisingly good sushi for a fair price. They have a buffet, and it’s one I’d actually trust.
Espaço
A vegan buffet with a menu that changes every day, and it’s delicious. We went three times.
Cucumba
A huge, upscale treehouse restaurant with bohemian vibes, known for healthy dishes and its signature tapioca crepe. It has several rooms and even a little play area for kids.
Armazém Cravo e Canela
A health food store that also makes fresh açaí bowls. The owner is super nice and welcoming. Support her.
What to Do in Lagoa da Conceição
Run Across the Bridge
Everyone crosses the Lagoa bridge at some point, so you might as well run it. If you’re okay with an uphill workout, keep going until you hit Mole Beach. It’s a good 50-minute walk because of the big hill.
Hike the Costa da Lagoa Trail
There’s a beautiful 4-mile hike along the lagoon that ends with plenty of lunch spots. The trail has a short scramble (less than 10 minutes), so it works for beginner hikers who still want a little adventure. I ended up at the last restaurant on the route, Restaurante Cabral Parador 19. It’s a bit pricier and more upscale than the others, but the view was worth it. Take the boat back for just 20 reais (about $4 USD, cash or debit card only).
Get Out on the Water
If you want to see the lagoon from a boat for longer than the ride back from the trail, this boat ride to Lagoa da Conceição and Campeche Island covers both in one day.
There’s so much more to explore beyond Lagoa. Check out my Florianópolis travel guide for the best hikes and beaches around Floripa. Planning more of Brazil? Read my 5-day Rio de Janeiro itinerary and what to buy in Brazil.