The historic centre of Florianopolis on the mainland side of the city preserves Portuguese colonial architecture in the Palacio Cruz e Sousa — now the State History Museum — the Hercilio Luz Bridge, and the cathedral on the main praça that reflect the city's Azorean Portuguese colonial origins. The Mercado Publico is the most atmospheric spot in the centre, a 19th-century covered market now housing excellent restaurants serving typical Santa Catarina cuisine including local oysters. Hotels in central Florianopolis combine the historic city with convenient access to the island's beaches by the integrated bus system.
Our Picks — Florianopolis
Santinho Beach — North
The most complete resort in Santa Catarina, Costão do Santinho commands the spectacular Santinho Beach with a massive pool complex including a wave pool, a full golf course, seven restaurants, a world-class spa, and a 1km of private Atlantic beach. It's the most sophisticated all-inclusive resort in southern Brazil.
Governador Celso Ramos
Often listed among the top five boutique resorts in South America, Ponta dos Ganchos sits on a private peninsula with 25 bungalows facing the island-dotted Baía Norte, a spa, a cellar restaurant, and the kind of absolute privacy that makes it the go-to choice for celebrity honeymooners and political retreats.
Jurerê Internacional
In the glamorous Jurerê Internacional neighbourhood — Brazil's most exclusive beach community — this resort offers direct access to the calm-water beach that hosts some of Brazil's most fashionable beach clubs. The pools, the restaurant, and the beach club service match the area's upscale character.
Lagoa da Conceição
A beautiful pousada on the shores of the Lagoa da Conceição — Florianópolis's most atmospheric neighbourhood of hill-climbing Azorean houses, independent cafés, and water sports — with rooms opening onto gardens and a pool facing the lagoon. The Azorean-influenced breakfast of oysters, chouriço, and queijo da ilha is exceptional.
Lagoa da Conceição
A gracious colonial-style pousada on the hillside above the lagoon with excellent breakfast, a pool, and rooms with lagoon views that represent some of the best value in the area. The owner's knowledge of the island's history, surf breaks, and hiking trails is shared freely at breakfast.
Praia Mole
A surf-focused pousada steps from the legendary Praia Mole beach, one of the most beautiful and consistently excellent surf breaks in southern Brazil. The basic but comfortable rooms, the communal barbecue terrace, and the partnership with the local surf school make it the natural choice for wave-obsessed travelers.
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