Best Day Trips off the Island

Outline:

• Santo Amaro da Imperatriz (30–45 min): Thermal springs & eco-adventure.

• Águas Mornas (30 min): Waterfalls & rainforest trek.

• Nova Trento (1 hr): Italian heritage & sanctuary of Santa Paulina.

• Blumenau & Pomerode (2 hr): Bavarian culture, Oktoberfest vibes.

• Balneário Camboriú (1.5 hr): Skyscraper beaches & cable cars.

• Praia do Rosa (1.5–2 hr): Surf town, whale watching, laid-back vibes.

• Guarda do Embaú (1.5–2 hr): Surfing village, river mouth and jungle.

• Laguna (2 hr): Historic harbor, Anita Garibaldi & lighthouse.

• Conclusion: Tips for planning, link to related guides (transport, road trips, weather).

Florianópolis might be known for its island beaches, but Santa Catarina’s mainland deserves just as much love. In a short drive (at most 2–2.5 hours) you can reach emerald coastlines, misty waterfalls, charming hill towns and even hot springs. These day trips are perfect for everyone from adventurous families and couples seeking romance, to solo travelers and digital nomads craving a change of scene. Grab your sunscreen and camera – some of the state’s best-kept secrets await just beyond the island.

Off the beaten path: a quaint colonial waterfront town tucked under green hills. In Santa Catarina’s mainland you’ll find similar picturesque villages, plus beaches, trails and thermal pools. These day-trip destinations each offer a unique slice of local life—all reachable by car from Floripa.

Santo Amaro da Imperatriz – Thermal Springs & Forest Escape (30–45 min)

Nestled in a lush valley just under an hour from Floripa, Santo Amaro da Imperatriz is famous for its naturally heated thermal waters and outdoor fun. Here you can soak in hot spring pools at the Caldas da Imperatriz Resort or public spas, where warm mineral water soothes achy muscles. After relaxing in the pools and jacuzzis, head into the nearby Serra do Tabuleiro State Park for easy hikes or even a rafting adventure on the Cubatão River. Don’t miss a quick walk to the Cachoeira do Rio Vermelho – a local waterfall hidden in the forest nearby.

• What to Do: Bathe in the hot springs or water park pools; stroll scenic trails; try local cachaça (rum) from the mountain distilleries; picnic by forest streams.

• Local Tip: Visit midweek or early on weekends to beat crowds at the spring pools. Bring flip-flops and a change of clothes – the water is warm enough to swim right out of your swimwear!

• Good For: Couples (romantic spa retreat), families (kid-friendly waterpark and slides), and wellness travelers. Even digital nomads can recharge here with long soaks and fresh mountain air.

Águas Mornas – Waterfalls & Rainforest Trek (30 min)

A few minutes past Santo Amaro is Águas Mornas, a small town whose name means “warm waters” but is best known for its forested hills and waterfalls. The star attraction is Cachoeira da Ressurreição, a beautiful cascade with a clear plunge pool. It’s an easy 5–10 minute trail from the roadside parking area, suitable for children and beginners. The water stays cool and refreshing year-round. Adventurous travelers can also arrange rappelling or canyoning tours on the steeper falls nearby.

• What to Do: Hike the short trail to Cachoeira da Ressurreição; swim in the waterfall’s natural pool; try guided rappelling; enjoy lunch at a rustic riverside kiosk.

• Travel Info: It’s roughly a 30-minute drive west from Floripa through winding mountain roads (about 25–30 km). Parking is roadside and free, but space is limited – arrive early on weekends.

• Local Tip: Bring water and mosquito repellent. The trail to the falls is very short but can be muddy after rain. On hot days the waterfall pool is the perfect cool-down.

• Good For: Families (kids love the easy swim spot), couples (peaceful nature escape), and friends seeking a light adventure.

Nova Trento – Italian Heritage & Spiritual Pilgrimage (1 hr)

Just north of Floripa lies Nova Trento, a quaint mountain town founded by Italian immigrants. It’s about a 50–60 minute drive (40 km) through rolling green hills. The town’s top attraction is the Santuário Santa Paulina, a beautiful sanctuary built to honor Brazil’s first saint (Santa Paulina). After visiting the church and gardens, spend some time enjoying the town’s Italian-influenced atmosphere. You’ll find local bakeries selling crusty pão italiano and torta de uva, plus small wineries and cheese shops in the countryside outside town.

• What to Do: Tour the Santa Paulina sanctuary and museum (free admission); sip coffee at an Italian-style café; sample local fruit jams, liqueurs or olive oil. Drive up to the Alto da Serra viewpoint for panoramic mountain views.

• Travel Info: It’s about 40–50 minutes by car via BR-282 (around 40 km). Roads are well-paved. Pair this with Santo Amaro on the same day if you want two stops on one trip.

• Local Tip: Time your visit for the weekend street market, when locals set up stalls of homemade cuca cake and sausages. Also, stop by the Cachaça do Imperador distillery just outside town to taste artisanal rum.

• Good For: Culture-lovers and couples seeking a romantic mountain drive; families can enjoy the open spaces and tasty treats. (Digital nomads might enjoy the quiet cafés and good Wi-Fi at local inns.)

Blumenau & Pomerode – Bavarian Towns & Craft Beer (2–2.5 hr)

Head north about 150 km (roughly 2–2.5 hours) to reach Blumenau and its neighbor Pomerode. These towns are the heart of SC’s German heritage. Blumenau is famous for its Oktoberfest (in October) and half-timbered architecture. Pomerode bills itself as “the most German city in Brazil,” with quaint painted houses and cobblestone streets. Together they make an ideal day trip for culture and cuisine.

• What to Do: In Blumenau, wander through Vila Germânica Park (beer gardens and bierhaus restaurants) and tour the Hering Textile Museum or Eisenbahn brewery. Snap photos of Gothic clock tower buildings in the historic city center. In nearby Pomerode, stroll the charming main street, visit the Pomerode Zoo, and try local specialties like joelho de porco (pork knuckle) with sauerkraut.

• Travel Info: About 2 hours from Floripa via BR-470 (around 150 km). Parking is available near downtown or at the festival park.

• Local Tip: Stop at a rural “colonial house” restaurant on the way to sample homemade cuca (cake) and coffee. If you time it right, Oktoberfest or the Pomerode Christmas Festival (in winter) add extra fun.

• Good For: Beer enthusiasts, history buffs, and families (there’s a children’s park and aquarium in Blumenau). Digital nomads will appreciate the many coffee shops and fast internet in these cities.

Balneário Camboriú – Beach City & Cable Cars (1.5–2 hr)

About 80 km north (roughly 1.5 hours) is Balneário Camboriú, a bustling beach city known for its skyline of high-rises (nicknamed the “Dubai of Brazil”). It’s a lively place to mix beach time with urban attractions. The award-winning Unipraias Park cable car is a must: it links three hilltop stations and offers views of the city and ocean as it glides to the rainforested Morro da Aguada, where you can trek or zip-line. Back in town, take a stroll along the seaside promenade (Passarela do Atântico) and climb the lookout at Cristo Luz park for sunset panoramas.

• What to Do: Relax on Praia Central, ride the Unipraias cable car to Mata Atlântica trails, visit the Atlantis Aquarium (good for kids), and shop at the pedestrian Laranjeiras street. Sample fresh seafood at a bayfront restaurant.

• Travel Info: Driving north on BR-101 takes about 1.5 hours (80 km). Watch out for tolls. The city can be very busy on weekends, so arriving early or parking on the outskirts (and taking the city bus) can save hassle.

• Local Tip: If time allows, continue a few km south to Itajaí port for its Thursday street market (feira) or the charming Rede Nacional de Museus. Also consider a short ferry cruise around the harbor at dusk.

• Good For: Couples and friends seeking nightlife (bars and clubs abound here), families (with the aquarium and easy beaches), and digital nomads (plenty of coworking spaces and cafés with high-speed internet).

Praia do Rosa – Whale Watching & Surf Paradise (1.5–2 hr)

Heading south from Floripa about 1.5 hours (60–80 km) brings you to Praia do Rosa, a crescent-shaped bay celebrated for surf and seasonal whales. Nestled between green hills, Rosa combines natural beauty with a relaxed bohemian vibe. In winter (July–October) you might spot Southern Right whales off the rocks near Praia do Ouvidor. In summer, surfers ride the waves at Praia do Rosa’s breaks, and families enjoy the long sandy beach. The village itself has a good selection of restaurants, bars and artisan shops.

• What to Do: Lounge or surf on Praia do Rosa; hike the hill to Mirante do Rosa lookout for panoramic ocean views (and whale spotting in season); have lunch at a cozy beachside restaurant like Barração. If you have time, visit neighboring beaches (Extéreo or Praia Vermelha are just a short drive away).

• Travel Info: About 90 minutes from Floripa via BR-101 (roughly 70 km). Roads are mostly two-lane and scenic but winding through the hills, so drive carefully. Parking in the village can be tight in peak season.

• Local Tip: Check tide charts – the surf can be strong, so swimming is safest in the small natural pools of Praia do Ouvidor on the north end. Bring binoculars if you go in whale season. Wear comfortable shoes for the short hike to the mirante (viewpoint).

• Good For: Couples (sunsets on the beach are magical), surfers and nature-lovers of all kinds. The laid-back cafés and pousadas also appeal to solo travelers. (There are even co-working spots here, so digital nomads can tap away with a sea view.)

Guarda do Embaú – Surf Village & River Mouth (1.5–2 hr)

Further south on BR-101 (roughly 80–90 km, around 2 hours drive) is Guarda do Embaú, a charming fishing and surf village. Renowned as Brazil’s first World Surfing Reserve, Guarda offers uncrowded beaches and a unique setting where a river (Rio Madre) meets the sea. The sandbar at the river mouth makes for gentle kayaking or paddleboarding, and the surrounding jungle hills hide several easy trails.

• What to Do: Rent a surfboard or take a lesson in the consistent waves. Paddle a canoe or SUP on the calm river bend. Hike up to Vale da Utopia, a popular eco-hostel and viewpoint (about a 1 km climb) overlooking the beach. Stroll across the river on the wooden footbridge and enjoy lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants serving fresh fish.

• Travel Info: It’s about 90–120 minutes from Floripa (75 km). The entrance to Guarda has a small tourist village feel – parking is limited, so go early on weekends. Note that locals often only accept cash at market stalls and small bars.

• Local Tip: Time your visit for afternoon to catch the spectacular sunset where the river curves. Also, stop by on a Wednesday or Sunday evening for the local “forró na areia” – live music on the beach (check the schedule online).

• Good For: Surfers and adventurous families (older kids will love the waves and the river swim). Couples enjoy the boho-chic vibe and riverside lunch spots. (Solo travelers will find friendly hostels and a safe, welcoming scene.)

Laguna – Historic Harbor & Coastal Charm (2 hr)

On Santa Catarina’s southern coast, about 120 km (2 hours) from Floripa, lies Laguna, one of the state’s oldest towns. This colonial harbor town is rich in history: it was the hometown of Princess Anita Garibaldi and home to the famous Brazilian revolutionary figure Giuseppe Garibaldi. Laguna’s star attraction is the Farol de Santa Marta, a towering red-and-white lighthouse by the sea, built in 1891. Inside is a small museum, and climbing to the top rewards you with 360° views of the coastline.

• What to Do: Walk the historic center streets and visit the Garibaldi statue and the tiny Anita Garibaldi museum house. Climb the lighthouse (note the entry fee) for coastal vistas. Relax at Prainha (a small beach near the center) or take a lunch ferry ride on the Lagoa do Peixe (if weather permits). Sample Laguna’s famous pink fruit, the pitaya or dragonfruit – locals sell it fresh from roadside stands.

• Travel Info: Drive south on BR-101 for about 2 hours (120 km). Laguna’s streets can be narrow, but the town itself is compact enough to explore on foot. Parking is available near the municipal building and at the waterfront.

• Local Tip: Laguna’s weather can be windier, so bring a light jacket. If you visit on a weekday, the town will be very quiet and charming. The best time to see the lighthouse and harbor is late afternoon light. Don’t miss the chance to try arroz de camarão (shrimp rice) or linguiça artesanal (local sausage) at a bayfront kiosk.

• Good For: History buffs and culture seekers; couples (sunrise at the lighthouse is romantic); and families (the aquarium and water park near the lighthouse are fun for kids).

Each of these destinations highlights a different side of Santa Catarina’s mainland – from relaxing hot springs and mountain towns to ocean adventures and historic ports. Keep these tips in mind: start early to make the most of your day, pack snacks and water (especially for hikes), and check the weather and road conditions before you go. For detailed driving advice and seasonal weather forecasts, be sure to see our posts on local transportation and Santa Catarina weather. Ready to escape the island? Map out your route, roll up the car windows, and set off on one (or all!) of these unforgettable day trips beyond Florianópolis.