Florianópolis, Brazil
11 July, 2016
Where
Why now
Known simply as ‘Floripa’ to locals, this city on the tropical
island of Santa Catarina is the go-to for surfers and partygoers
alike. A South American Ibiza, Florianópolis is a heady mix of
paradisiacal surroundings and caipirinha-fuelled dance parties.
Throngs of gorgeous, bronzed bodies worship the sun on pristine
white beaches by day and pour out of sweaty samba parties onto
moonlit streets by night. Refuel with a refreshing bowl of açai
before taking a stroll in one of the 300-year-old fishing villages.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a giant sea
turtle during your downtime.
When to go
Florianópolis is warm year round, but peak summer months are
between December and March. January is the warmest month, but stays
comfortable with temperatures ranging between 22 and 30 degrees.
Avoid September, which has the most rainfall.
Who to take with you
The girl gang. Oysters and champagne at Kokoon Beach Lounge
while pretending you’re too mature to check out all those ripped
surfers? Sure.
Most likely to bump into…
Victoria’s Secret angel Alessandra Ambrosio floating between
various lagoons on an uber-luxe yacht.
Don’t miss
Surfing at one of the island’s 42 beaches.
Barra da Lagoa is best for beginner waves while Praya Mole is ideal
if you’re looking for something a little more challenging. If your
surfing prowess isn’t quite up to scratch, there are plenty of
instructors on hand to help out.
An essential you need to bring with you?
Your tiniest Brazilian-cut bikini bottoms – believe us when we say you’ll
be more covered up than most.
How to get there
Fly into Hercílio Luz International Airport in Floripa. Bear in
mind that most external flights go via Rio or Sao Paulo.
