10 Wild Trails in Florianópolis: Hike, Sweat, Repeat

Think Florianópolis is just beaches and caipirinhas? Think again. This island is a beast. Half a million people. Traffic. Chaos. But step off the pavement and you’ll find wild, tangled trails that make you forget you’re anywhere near a city.

Ready to Get Lost?

Start with the legend. The Lagoinha do Leste trail via Matadeiro. Cross a rickety bridge in Armação. Hit the sand at Praia do Matadeiro. Then plunge into thick forest. Three and a half kilometers of sweat, roots, and heart-pounding climbs. Moderate to hard. But then—bam. The trees break. The cliffs drop away. You get that first, jaw-dropping view of Lagoinha do Leste. You’ll want to stay forever. Don’t. There’s more.

Think you’re done? Not even close. Hike up Morro da Coroa. Just 400 meters, but it’s brutal. The view from the top? Worth every burning muscle. For the return, you’ve got options. Double back. Grab a boat to Pântano do Sul. Or take the steep, fast trail—less pretty, but you’ll be back at the bar in no time.

The Part Nobody Tells You

Most people stop at the famous trails. Big mistake. Want something wilder? Try the Morro das Feiticeiras. Connects Praia Brava to Praia dos Ingleses. Start at Ingleses, scramble over rocks, dodge mud, and keep your eyes peeled for hidden coves. The return is easier—just you, the trees, and the sound of your own breath.

Or go long. The Costa da Lagoa trail. Seven kilometers. Easy, but relentless. You’ll pass a 1700s flour mill, a fishing village, and finally—Costa da Lagoa waterfall. Dive in. Cool off. Then feast at a lakeside restaurant. Some will even boat you back for free. That’s living.

Craving more? Morro do Rapa is your next move. Start at Lagoinha do Norte, climb for epic views, and hit the paragliding ramp for a panorama that’ll make your heart skip. Or chase the ghosts of shipwrecks at Praia dos Naufragados. Three kilometers through dense forest, then—boom—open sand, a lonely lighthouse, and, if you’re game, a scramble to old cannons and secret pools.

Hidden Gems, Secret Beaches

Still standing? Good. Because the Gurita waterfall trail is calling. Five kilometers, mostly easy, but watch for roots and fallen logs. The payoff? Three-tiered falls, cool water, and zero crowds. Or try the Saquinho trail—short, sweet, and ending at one of the tiniest, prettiest beaches on the island.

Want a real challenge? The Morro das Aranhas loop. Twelve kilometers. Start at Praia do Santinho, climb through thick forest, and hit the summit for views of Moçambique and Santinho beaches. Descend to Moçambique—the island’s longest beach. Rest. Then circle back. Legs shaking. Grinning like a maniac.

Don't Miss

The sunrise hike to Lagoinha do Leste. The hidden waterfall at Costa da Lagoa. That street food stall locals whisper about.

One More Step

Think you’re tough? Prove it. Skip the tourist bus. Rent a scooter. Get lost in the wildest corners of Floripa. These trails aren’t just walks—they’re a test. Of your legs. Your lungs. Your sense of adventure.

So what are you waiting for? Lace up. Hit the dirt. And let Florianópolis show you what it’s really made of.