Floripa the Magic Island, Brazil
02 Sep, 2013
By Josie Cruz
English Editor Harriet Hatey
Photos by Helena Nunes
It is difficult to find someone who does not smile when they say ‘Florianópolis’, and this is not in vain. The island capital of Santa Catarina state is also known as the ‘Magic Island’ because of its beautiful beaches and people in addition to numerous entertainment options. It is also the fastest growing metropolitan region in the south of Brazil, feeding the tourism sector.
Some say that in total there are more than 100 beaches, although the official number is only 42. However, there are beaches for every group; the quiet ones, the youngsters, the families, the tourist ones and the ones suitable for extreme sports.
by Helena Nunes
Get to know some of the most famous beaches of ‘Floripa‘, the nickname given to the city:
Starting with Joaquina beach on the east coast, the sporty beach. Sand boarding (dune surfing), football and beach volleyball are all welcomed here. This beach is also well known for hosting national and international surf competitions. If you’re searching for the perfect wave, go kilometers north to Mole beach, one of the most popular and beautiful spots in the area. The waves are perfect for surfing due to its geographical conditions, and the scene is complimented by the sky above being full of paragliders.
On the north coast, the gem is Jurerê, which is divided in two: Jurerê Internacional, with luxurious beach lounges always full of upper middle class people and celebrities; and Jurerê Traditional, offering a wide variety of typical food restaurants.
The beaches of Canasvieira and Ponta dos Canas, are very popular during the summer. They have a lush natural beauty and a well-established tourist infrastructure. Accordingly, it is a highly popular area for families and international tourists, especially the Argentine neighbors.
Heading to the southern coast, the breathtaking Campeche Island is located a few meters from a beach of the same name, reachable by boat. It gained fame after the discovery of numerous inscriptions left by ancient civilizations, the largest archaeological site of this type in the entire Brazilian coast.
As well as its cultural value, the well-preserved Atlantic Forest is a source of great ecological research especially for harboring endemic species, those that occur only in some particular places in the world. In 2000, the island was declared a National Archaeological and Scenic Heritage Site.
Looking to the south, another untouched paradise is Lagoinha do Leste, perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation from everyday stress. It can only be reached on foot or by boat. There are two tracks leading to the beach, the shorter one starts at Pântano de Sul takes about an hour, while the other one begins at Armação beach and lasts for about three hours. It is worth the effort though; the spectacular landscapes are like medicine for the soul.
Remember to bring your own food and drink because there are no bars or accommodation at this beach. Just to remind you, rubbish should go back with you!
Florianópolis, also demonstrates its historical and cultural heritage in several colonial buildings of Azorean influence, along with forts and fortresses of the eighteenth century left by Portuguese colonists. The forts Anhatomirim, São José da Ponta Grossa and Ratones are open to visit. In looking to the business of tourism, the city is one step ahead on international events, already occupying fourth position in the ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) ranking in Brazil. The tourist infrastructure in the capital city is considered one of the best in the country, besides being one of the top destinations for foreign tourists.
Getting there:
Hercílio Luz International Airport in Florianópolis has taxi services, transfers, executive coaches and public buses that go direct to the city centre. The BR101, BR282 and SC-407 highways are the best options for those going by car. As most of the metropolis is not on the mainland, three bridges provide access to the island of Santa Catarina: the Colombo Salles Bridge, the Pedro Ivo Bridge and the Hercílio Luz Bridge, which by the way, is one of the most charming postcards-vistas of all the Brazilian capitals.
