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.
Photo by Natalia Malaia / Unsplash
Santinho Beach stretches 2.2 km with strong consistent waves, ranking among Florianopolis top surf spots. Famous for 5,000-year-old rock inscriptions on its rocky outcrops that gave the beach its name. The Costao do Santinho Resort is one of southern Brazil largest resorts. The trail to Mocambique Beach is a must-do hike.
Pass Ingleses and turn right toward Santinho. Paid and free parking available. About 40 minutes from downtown.
March to November for surfing. December to March for beach and hiking. Best with east and northeast swells.
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.
Mocambique is Florianopolis longest beach at 12.5 km of pristine wilderness within Rio Vermelho State Park. With no infrastructure, it is an ecological sanctuary of dunes, restinga, and Atlantic Forest. Strong waves make it unsafe for swimming. The wildest beach on the island.
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.