Where to stay in Florianópolis

Choosing the right region is the most important decision of your trip to the island.

Updated on October 7, 2026 ✓ Information checked on October 6, 2026 adapted from the Portuguese original

The island is large and summer traffic is slow. That is why the area you stay in shapes your whole trip. There is no single “best neighborhood”: there is the best one for your travel style.

Comparison

Region	Good for	Keep in mind
North (Jurerê, Canasvieiras, Ingleses)	families, calm water, lots of facilities	far from the South and Joaquina
Lagoa da Conceição	staying in the middle of the island, nightlife	noise near the Centrinho
East (Barra da Lagoa, Joaquina, Mole)	surfers, nature, fishing village feel	open sea
South (Campeche, Armação, Pântano do Sul)	nature, hiking, peace and quiet, close to the airport	fewer options at night
Downtown	arrivals by bus, short or business trips	far from the beaches

North

Jurerê, Canasvieiras and Ingleses have calm water, hotels, pousadas (guesthouses), restaurants and services. It is the most common choice for families and for visitors from Argentina and Uruguay.

Lagoa da Conceição

The Lagoa sits halfway between the North and the South, close to Joaquina and Praia Mole. Great if you want to try different beaches and enjoy bars and restaurants.

East

Barra da Lagoa combines a fishing village, a beach and access to Moçambique. Good if you want a beach atmosphere without too much bustle.

South

Campeche has grown and has good facilities; Armação and Pântano do Sul are more rustic. It is the ideal base for hiking and for Campeche Island, and it is close to the airport.

Downtown

Practical for arriving and leaving, close to the bus station and the Public Market, but you will have to travel to the beaches every day.

Business directory

See the accommodation category of our business directory.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Florianópolis on a first visit?

For calm water and plenty of facilities, the North; to stay in the middle of the island and try different beaches, Lagoa da Conceição.

Is it worth staying in downtown Florianópolis?

Only for short or business trips. The beaches are quite a distance away.

Which area is close to the airport?

The South, such as Campeche and Armação, and Ribeirão da Ilha.

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