Florianopolis, just off of São José and south of São Paulo, Brazil, is both an island paradise and a bustling city. Within its 168 square miles are a plethora of skyscrapers, mostly tech offices, that have given the island its nickname of Brazil's Silicon Valley. Next to these, are lagoons, sandy white beaches, and ecological reserves that are thick with lush vegetation. This distinctive landscape makes Florianopolis a unique location for travelers who want both the easygoing tropical island feel that is so typical of Brazil, as well as the more upscale, party atmosphere that has developed on this unique island. For travelers looking to spend a week on this island, here are some suggestions for the best hotels.
Because Florianopolis has such a unique and diverse social scene, it's important to familiarize yourself with the many options before you make your hotel choice. If you want to stay next to the beach, there are over 40 beaches, many of them with hotels on or near the seaside. Also, each beach has developed its own personality and caters to a slightly different population.
The Jurerê Internacional beach is a magnet for the crowd that likes to party long into the night. There huge clubs and lounges play music and offer drinks like the caipirinha, the national cocktail of Brazil. Surfers prefer beaches like Praia Mole, where many surfing competitions are held. Joaquina Beach, with its rolling sand dunes, is also popular for surfing as well as for sandboarding. This is an ideal beach for your island stay, because there are all the amenities that a beachgoer could want, such as lifeguards, showers, restaurants, and handicraft markets.
One of the most gorgeous hotels is the Costão do Santinho Resort Vilas, located in Praia do Santinho. This resort, tucked into glistening green hills, has an oceanfront grill, excellent dining, ocean views, and some of the rooms have private jacuzzis.
For those that want peace and quiet, the Torres de Cachoeira hotel is a great choice, as it is hidden on a secluded beach. The rooms are reasonably prices, some have seaside balconies, and the restaurant serves regional cuisine.
Another good location to stay at is the Lagoa da Conceição, the giant lake located in the middle of the island. This lake is often used by water sport enthusiasts, and on most days you can go sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, or jetskiing. Along the edge of the lagoon is Rendeiras Avenue, which has great restaurants, cafes, and markets. There are also lively nightclubs such as Confraria das Artes that are very popular.
Because Florianopolis has such a unique and diverse social scene, it's important to familiarize yourself with the many options before you make your hotel choice. If you want to stay next to the beach, there are over 40 beaches, many of them with hotels on or near the seaside. Also, each beach has developed its own personality and caters to a slightly different population.
The Jurerê Internacional beach is a magnet for the crowd that likes to party long into the night. There huge clubs and lounges play music and offer drinks like the caipirinha, the national cocktail of Brazil. Surfers prefer beaches like Praia Mole, where many surfing competitions are held. Joaquina Beach, with its rolling sand dunes, is also popular for surfing as well as for sandboarding. This is an ideal beach for your island stay, because there are all the amenities that a beachgoer could want, such as lifeguards, showers, restaurants, and handicraft markets.
One of the most gorgeous hotels is the Costão do Santinho Resort Vilas, located in Praia do Santinho. This resort, tucked into glistening green hills, has an oceanfront grill, excellent dining, ocean views, and some of the rooms have private jacuzzis.
For those that want peace and quiet, the Torres de Cachoeira hotel is a great choice, as it is hidden on a secluded beach. The rooms are reasonably prices, some have seaside balconies, and the restaurant serves regional cuisine.
Another good location to stay at is the Lagoa da Conceição, the giant lake located in the middle of the island. This lake is often used by water sport enthusiasts, and on most days you can go sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, or jetskiing. Along the edge of the lagoon is Rendeiras Avenue, which has great restaurants, cafes, and markets. There are also lively nightclubs such as Confraria das Artes that are very popular.
By Kaitlin Nunn