Praia Brava is a 900-meter surf beach in north Florianopolis with strong consistent waves. The hilltop access road provides spectacular panoramic views and serves as a paragliding launch site. Cold waters with strong currents make it unsuitable for casual swimming but ideal for experienced surfers.
Photo by Paulo Kopzinski / Unsplash
Praia Brava lives up to its name (Wild Beach): 900 meters of strong, consistent waves make it a top surf spot in north Florianopolis. The hilltop access road offers one of the island most spectacular panoramic views. It doubles as a paragliding launch site. Cold waters and strong currents make it unsuitable for casual swimming.
Via SC-401 North, pass Ponta das Canas and follow signs to Praia Brava. Steep road with panoramic viewpoint.
March to November for surfing (south swells). Summer for paragliding. Avoid for swimming during rough seas.
Lagoinha is a beautiful 400-meter cove at the far north of Florianopolis island with crystal-clear calm waters. Surrounded by rocky outcrops, it is one of the prettiest beaches on the island. Great for snorkeling and families. Parking is limited so arrive early in summer.
Praia dos Ingleses is the largest north-facing beach in Florianopolis at 4.8 km. It offers moderate surf waves on the north end and calm family waters on the south. Full infrastructure with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. Notable white sand dunes on the southern end. One of the island busiest neighborhoods.
Santinho is a 2.2 km surf beach in north Florianopolis known for strong waves and 5,000-year-old rock inscriptions on its cliffs. Home to the Costao do Santinho Resort, one of southern Brazil largest. A scenic trail connects it to wild Mocambique Beach.
Ponta das Canas is a calm 1 km beach at the northern tip of Florianopolis island. A former fishing village offering family guesthouses and affordable seafood restaurants. Quieter than nearby Canasvieiras, it is ideal for families wanting a peaceful beach holiday.