Florianopolis, the capital of the state of Santa Catarina, is a beautiful city split between the Brazilian mainland and the shores of beautiful island Santa Catarina.  This prime location means Florianopolis boasts over 40 beaches to its name, all less than an hour from the city’s bustling industrial center.

The two halves of the city are linked by two scenic bridges.  The business end is on the mainland, while the island is home to the city’s historic district, with many beautiful buildings to see and explore.  The defining feature of Floripa’s stunning skyline is the old suspension bridge, which is now closed to traffic.

The island itself is a paradise.  Beaches to the north are calm bays popular with locals, and to the south you’ll find majestic cliffs and great surf conditions.  For an alternative to your basic board, windsurfing is possible, and for land-based creatures there are a variety of excellent treks in the area as well.  In addition to the beaches, explore the Lagoa da Conceicao, a beautiful lake in the center of the island.

Florianopolis is rapidly gaining a reputation as Brazil’s second gay capital.  It hosts a pride festival, Parada da Diversidade in early September that is now one of Brazil’s biggest, and also hosts “Gay Pop” events during Carnaval for a safer and more affordable alternative to Rio.

Floripa’s beautiful beaches, unique landscape, and wonderful weather make it an ideal stop for backpackers and travelers through Brazil.   A great place to lay down your pack and relax for a few days, or to gather up your energy and enjoy activities in the great outdoors.  There are several cheap hostels available, some of them beachfront offering beautiful views of the sparkling water. 

Though not as inexpensive as some other places, a trip to Floripa is definitely worth making room for in your budget.  Whether you’re on a short vacation or backpacking across the continent, this is one place not to miss.