LOCATED IN THE STATE OF SANTA CATARINA, IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL
Florianópolis is the second largest and the capital city of the state. It is connected to the main continent by two bridges and is formed of an ocean island and a small peninsula. In addition to having a very high quality of life, the island is famous for its beaches, amazing landscape, delicious seafood restaurants, great parties and beautiful people. The city supports a lively lifestyle, with fun going around at all times. Tourism is one of the main pillars upon which the city’s economy is based. Its thriving, beautifying and adventurous nature has convinced Veja (Brazilian WEekly Magazine) to declare it as the best place to live in Brazil.
Besides Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Surfing there are lots of other activities to do here such as:
BOAT TRIPS
Enjoy a daytrip aboard a schooner boat around the whole island, where you will visit many historical places such as the natural reserve of Anhatomirim (once a fort to protect the northern entrance to the island). For a shorter trip in the Lagoa da Conceicao, sailing to a neighborhood (Costa da Lagoa) where one of the best seafood in the island is served. Or Campeche Island a small island situated a few miles of the shore right in front of Campeche beach. For a few dollars you can take a small boat and spend a day in a practically virgin island with crystal clear waters, snorkeling, hiking, or just enjoying the beach, along with some fish and coconut water served by local fisherman.
HIKING
For those who love a challenging hike and beautiful scenario, the trail to Lagoinha do Leste is the right spot. It is about 45 min long, up and down the hill. Once on top you will be astonished with the view to this inhabited beach. Down to the sand its not any different. Behind the beach there is a natural water lagoon that flows down in a channel to the ocean. Depending on the time of the year you will not find anyone there but the few local fisherman that live on this beach. There are many other trails in the island to explore!
CULTURE
The city has few Museums, but has a wealth of open-air sites such as the forts, Azores villages, and rock art archaeological sites. The main archeological sites containing rock art can be found at Ingleses beach, Santinho beach and Campeche Island. The oldest is about 4500 years of age. The Historical Museum of Santa Catarina in the centre is a neo classical building and displays collections of state history.
