- Type
- History and culture
- Area
- North of the island
- Free access
- No
- Good for kids
- Yes
- Requires a hike or walk
- No
The Fort of Santa Cruz stands on the small island of Anhatomirim, at the northern entrance to the channel around Santa Catarina Island. The island belongs to the neighboring municipality of Governador Celso Ramos, but the visit is one of the classic trips from Florianópolis.
History
Designed by Brigadier José da Silva Paes, the first governor of the Captaincy of Santa Catarina, Anhatomirim was the first corner of the North Bay defensive triangle, alongside the forts of São José da Ponta Grossa and Santo Antônio de Ratones, begun around 1740, according to Wikipedia. The name comes from the Tupi language and means “little island of the devil”.
How to visit
- Access by boat only. UFSC states that it does not provide transport: it is offered by local marine transport companies, such as the schooners that leave from the north of the island.
- Opening hours: UFSC lists Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., including public holidays, with last entry at 6 p.m. (checked in October 2026).
- Visitor fee: charged by UFSC for the upkeep of the monument. Check the amount on the official website.
Combine with
Read the guide to the forts of Florianópolis and see the boat trips.
Practical tips
- Check the UFSC website to confirm that visits are allowed.
- Schooner trips usually include the fort.
- Bring sunscreen: there is little shade on the boat.
Share:
Combine with
-
PaidKids North of the island São José da Ponta Grossa Fort The only one of the three North Bay forts you can reach by land, between Jurerê and Praia do Forte. See details -
Free accessKids North of the island Canasvieiras Beach One of the busiest beaches in summer, with calm water and the schooner departure point. See details -
Free accessKids North of the island Santo Antônio de Lisboa The Azorean village on the North Bay, with historic houses, oysters and a famous sunset. See details