Must-see places in Florianopolis

Florianópolis Must-Sees

Florianópolis, the capital of Santa Catarina, is characterized by its blend of colonial history and diverse coastal ecosystems. This selection includes architectural landmarks like the 1926 Hercílio Cruz suspension bridge and the neoclassical Palácio Cruz e Sousa. Natural highlights range from the surfing breaks and dunes of Praia da Joaquina to the central Lagoa da Conceição. The list also covers historical fortifications, the city’s 19th-century public market, and the TAMAR Project, a dedicated center for sea turtle conservation and research.

Florianópolis Must-Sees — Map

Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Praia da Joaquina

Renowned for high-quality surf breaks and expansive sand dunes, this beach has hosted international surfing championships since the 1970s. The dunes are a primary location for sandboarding.

Agandreta / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Lagoa da Conceição

A large saltwater lagoon that serves as a hub for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The surrounding area is known for traditional bobbin lace-making and a high concentration of regional seafood restaurants.

Lionel Baur / CC-BY-SA-3.0

C

Our Lady of Exile and St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, Florianópolis

The Our Lady of Exile and St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral Also Florianópolis Cathedral It is a Catholic church dedicated to Our Lady…

Lionel Baur / CC-BY-SA-3.0

D

Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa

Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa is a fort located on the northern end of Santa Catarina Island in the municipality of Florianópolis,…

Tatiana Percevali Rossi / CC-BY-SA

E

Mercado Público Aldírio Simões

Housed in a historic 19th-century building, this market features over 100 stalls. It specializes in local handcrafts, fresh seafood, and traditional bars serving regional snacks.

Leandro Kibisz / CC BY-SA 3.0

F

Mole Beach

Mole Beach is located in the city of Florianópolis, Brazil. It is up to 120 metres wide and 960 metres long.

NiltonLeme / CC BY-SA 3.0

G

TAMAR Project

The Projeto TAMAR is a Brazilian non-profit organization owned by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation.

unknow / CC BY-SA 4.0

H

Jurerê

Jurerê is a beach-side neighbourhood on the northern shore of the island of Florianópolis in Santa Catarina, Brazil.

I

Mirante da Praia Brava

A roadside observation point offering panoramic views of the northern coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.

Rosa Schnee / CC-BY-SA

J

Praia dos Ingleses

Praia dos Ingleses is a beach located in the neighborhood of Ingleses do Rio Vermelho, in the north of the Santa Catarina Island 31 km from…

Arquivo Nacional do Brasil / Public domain

K

Praça XV de Novembro

The city's central square features a monumental centennial fig tree with branches supported by metal pillars. It is paved with patterned 'Portuguese stone' mosaics depicting local folklore.

Rosa Schnee / CC-BY-SA

L

Palácio Cruz e Sousa

This 18th-century palace houses the Santa Catarina Historical Museum. The building features an ornate pink facade, neoclassical statues, and preserved rooms with intricate marquetry floors.

M

Bridge

Brazil's longest suspension bridge, measuring 821 meters. Completed in 1926, the steel structure is a national historic landmark and the primary visual symbol of the city.

Other Lists

Best Beaches of Florianópolis Notable Places of Worship Florianópolis Cultural Hubs Florianópolis Nature & Parks Scenic Viewpoints and Peaks