Florianópolis Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go

Chris
Jan 19
3 min read

Updated: Sep 6

Florianópolis – often called Floripa by locals – is one of Brazil’s most beloved destinations. With more than 40 beaches, a thriving food scene, and a unique mix of island charm and urban convenience, it’s a place that appeals to surfers, families, digital nomads, and culture seekers alike.

This guide gives you everything you need to know before your trip: when to go, where to stay, how to get around, and essential local tips.

Quick Facts About Florianópolis

Country	Brazil
State	Santa Catarina
Language	Portuguese
Currency	Brazilian Real (BRL)
Best Time to Visit	Spring (Sep-Nov) & Autumn (Mar-May) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds; Summer (Dec-Feb) for beach season (can be crowded and more expensive).
Emergency Numbers	Police: 190, Ambulance: 192, Fire Department: 193
Internet Access	Widely available in hotels, pousadas, cafes, and co-working spaces. Consider a local SIM card for on-the-go access.

Why Visit Florianópolis?

Florianópolis offers a rare combination: laid-back beach life, vibrant nightlife, and strong cultural roots. You’ll find:

World-class beaches like Praia Mole and Campeche, perfect for surfing. Read more here.
Family-friendly areas such as Coqueiros and Lagoa da Conceição. Read more here.
Eco-tourism opportunities from hiking trails in the Atlantic rainforest to boat tours in protected lagoons. Read more here.
A growing digital nomad hub, with coworking cafés and strong expat communities. Read more here.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (December–March): Hot, lively, and perfect for the beach. Expect crowds and higher prices.
Autumn (April–May): Fewer tourists, pleasant temperatures – a great balance.
Winter (June–August): Mild and quiet. Good for hiking, cultural visits, and lower costs.
Spring (September–November): Ideal weather, nature in bloom, still affordable.

Tip: If you want to enjoy the beaches without the high season crowds, April or late November are the sweet spots.

Where to Stay in Florianópolis

Each neighborhood offers a different experience:

Centro (Downtown): Best for convenience, business, and quick access to other areas.
Lagoa da Conceição: The island’s bohemian heart – lively nightlife, water sports, and boutique stays. (→ See our Lagoa Guide)
Campeche: Wide sandy beaches, surf culture, and a relaxed local vibe. (→ See our Campeche Guide)
Jurerê Internacional: Upscale beach clubs, luxury hotels, and nightlife hotspots.
Coqueiros: A hidden gem for food lovers with coastal charm and great restaurants. (→ See our Coqueiros Guide)

Getting Around the Island

Florianópolis is large and spread out, so planning transport is essential:

Car rental: Recommended if you want flexibility to explore beaches across the island.
Ride-hailing apps: Uber and 99 are widely available, especially for short trips.
Public buses: Florianópolis has an extensive but sometimes confusing bus network. It’s the cheapest way to get around, but it requires a bit of planning. Where to check routes & schedules: The official Consórcio Fênix website lists all routes, stops, and timetables. Apps like Moovit or Google Maps also provide reliable route planning with live departure times.
Cycling & e-scooters: In central areas and around Lagoa da Conceição you’ll now find rental bikes and electric scooters that can be unlocked via app directly on the street. They are perfect for short distances, sightseeing, and avoiding traffic – but not ideal for exploring the whole island.

Food & Nightlife

Florianópolis is famous for its seafood, especially fresh oysters and shrimp. Don’t miss:

Local seafood markets in Lagoa and Ribeirão da Ilha.
Brazilian barbecue (churrasco) spots across the city.
Trendy cafés popular among digital nomads, like Café Cultura.
Nightlife in Lagoa da Conceição and Jurerê, from samba bars to electronic clubs.

Safety & Practical Tips

Safety: Florianópolis is safer than many Brazilian cities, but take standard precautions (avoid deserted beaches at night, watch belongings).
Language: Portuguese is the main language. English is spoken briefly in tourist areas, but learning a few phrases goes a long way.
Money: Credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are common but may charge fees for foreign cards.
Connectivity: To activate a local SIM in Brazil you usually need a CPF (Brazilian Tax ID) . At airport shops you might get one with just your passport, but it’s not guaranteed. If you don’t have a CPF, use an eSIM (e.g. Airalo, Holafly) or rely on the Wi-Fi in hotels and cafés.

Final Thoughts

Florianópolis is not just another beach destination – it’s a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Whether you’re here for surfing, a family holiday, or a remote work stay, Floripa offers something unique for every traveler.

For deeper dives, check out our other guides: