Destination Inspiration: Florianópolis, Brazil

Why Go?

Florianópolis produces a potent mix of dreamy surroundings and buzzing nightlife. This vibrant city is the capital of Santa Catarina Island, where white-sand beaches and windswept surf havens meet towering sand dunes and verdant rainforest.

The island’s east coast bustles with activity throughout the day and night, with lively caipirinha bars and seafood restaurants catering for the crowds. For lunch, try ‘tainha’ – a tasty succulent fish that can be baked or grilled, or ‘Casquinha de Siri’ – an oven-baked crab cake made with shredded crabmeat, tomato sauce, and coconut milk.

Floripa’s centrepiece is Lagoa da Conceição: a shallow lagoon with high winds, making it a world-class location for windsurfing. Late-night bars and sweaty samba parties create an electric atmosphere in town. Local favourite the Black Swan Pub is renowned for its jazz and rock nights, while the plush Cafe de la Musique in Jurerê Internacional regularly hosts international DJs.

But the main draw of Florianópolis is hiding somewhere else: Lagoinha do Leste, an unspoiled beach set between two mountains, requiring a two-hour hike to reach. The reward for your efforts – other than the picturesque scenery along the way – is a beautiful freshwater lagoon fringed with white sands, and hardly another soul in sight.

When to go?

There’s a distinct buzz about Florianópolis at the start of the year. In January the World Surf Championships take place, while February is reserved for Carnival – Brazil’s biggest party. Temperatures typically reach about 30–35 degrees celsius during this period, so if you prefer cooler weather, visit between May and September.

Where to stay?

Pousada Ilha Faceira – Florianópolis, Brazil

Pousada Ilha Faceira is just a few steps from popular Campeche Beach, making it a firm favourite among Booking.com guests. Its spacious rooms are kitted out with modern facilities, and Wellington and Clayton – the hotel’s dedicated staff – always go the extra mile to make their guests feel at home.

Hotel Sete Ilhas – Florianópolis, Brazil

Upmarket Hotel Sete Ilhas is found beside the main beach of the lively Jurere district, and offers easy access to Floripa’s best clubs. It gets rave reviews from Booking.com guests for its attentive staff, ocean views, and excellent breakfast. The hotel’s restaurant dishes up a tasty selection of freshly caught seafood throughout the day.

Girassóis da Lagoa – Florianópolis, Brazil

Overlooking Lagoa da Conceição, Girassóis da Lagoa gives you a sense of blissful isolation, despite being just a ten-minute walk from the town centre. The friendly guesthouse offers self-catering facilities, while in the morning fresh breakfast is served. Booking.com guests love the terrace, where you can sit and watch the moonlit lake at night.