5 Unusual Things to Do in Florianópolis

Projeto Tamar has locations throughout Brazil and works in marine conservation and rehabilitation of sea turtles. Florianópolis is home to one the more successful programs and frequently reintroduces sea turtles back to their natural habitat in Barra da Lagoa. These are open to the public (and free), and nearly always happen at 3:00pm. Stay tuned to the Projeto Tamar website for exact dates and locations, and consider making this a special experience as part of any Floripa itinerary.

This experience will take travelers well off the beaten path, and up into one of the rural mountainous areas of Florianópolis. Cachaça, Brazil’s national spirit, is made from sugarcane juice, and it is produced locally on the island by a distiller simply known as Zeca. Zeca’s cachaça is produced on the southern side of the island in the hills behind Praia Armação. His farm is small, rustic and definitely worth the bumpy drive up the hill, for those looking for an absolutely authentic Brazilian experience. Try his cachaça flavored with pineapple for a sweet taste or the variety with peppers for a spicy twist.

Climb aboard one of Capitan Hook’s ships with Escuna Martin and set sail off the northern tip of Florianópolis for an adventure to remember. These ships and their multi-lingual crews take guests from Canasvieiras beach to Ilha da Francês (French Island) and then over for a stop on the mainland. The ship will also stop on Ilha Anhatomirim to discover an old fort before returning to Floripa. This sailing trip is an excellent way to discover Floripa’s forts and understand the influence of nautical life on the island.

The northern end of the island is known for its calm waters and electrifying nightclubs, but its also home to Circocan, an award-winning circus club that has classes open to the public. Their open air trapeze system is often assembled outside the gym, and the troupe has special events and performances throughout the year. Try a trapeze, aerial acrobatics, or general fitness class for an invigorating experience.

Floripa is home to a many hiking trails that range from super easy to downright difficult, but every traveler should consider hiking to see some of the native archaeological symbols on the island. The hike is actually just an easy walk from the Praia do Santinho near the Costão do Santinho beach resort. Following the trail at the south end of the beach for less than ten minutes will land you in the Museu Arqueológico Ao Ar Livre, or Open Air Archeological Museum. There are placards in English and Portuguese explaining the history and significance of the native symbols, and the trail offers a beautiful ocean view.