2-Day Family Weekend Getaway to Florianópolis
Welcome to Florianópolis, affectionately known by locals as 'Ilha da Magia' (Magic Island). This coastal gem in southern Brazil is a rare find for families: it offers the perfect blend of modern infrastructure and pristine nature. For those traveling with little ones, the island’s north and central districts provide the most accessible experiences, featuring calm waters and paved boardwalks that make navigating with a stroller surprisingly easy.
Our Family Travel Guide style focuses on minimizing travel time while maximizing enjoyment. We’ve selected locations where the water is warm and shallow, the food is fresh, and the pace remains delightfully slow. Whether you're exploring historic fortresses or watching sea turtles, this 48-hour itinerary ensures a stress-free escape for both parents and kids.
Day 1: North Island - Calm Waters and Colonial Charm
Jurerê Internacional Beach
Start your morning at the most family-friendly beach on the island. The waters here are remarkably calm and shallow, making it safe for toddlers to splash around. The long, paved sidewalk running parallel to the beach is ideal for a morning stroll with the stroller.
Jurerê Open Shopping
Just a short walk from the sand, this open-air mall is designed for families. It features wide pedestrian paths, clean restrooms with changing facilities, and a variety of kid-friendly restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to Italian pasta.
Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa
Drive five minutes to this 18th-century fortress. It’s one of the few historical sites in the area that is relatively easy to navigate. While there are some grassy areas, the views of the bay are spectacular and there is plenty of space for kids to run around safely.
Sunset Dinner at Santo Antônio de Lisboa
End the day in this historic Azorean district. The waterfront is famous for its sunset views. While the streets are cobblestoned, the main seaside path is manageable. Enjoy fresh oysters—the local specialty—at a waterfront table while the sun dips below the horizon.
Day 2: City Culture and Wildlife Encounters
Mercado Público & Historic Center
Head to the city center to explore the Public Market. It’s a vibrant, flat, and stroller-accessible space where you can see local crafts and taste exotic fruits. Don't forget to walk a block over to see the iconic Hercílio Luz Bridge from the mainland lookout point.
Lagoa da Conceição Centrinho
Drive to the heart of the island for lunch by the lagoon. The 'Centrinho' area has a lovely park with a playground and several restaurants overlooking the water. The shallow edges of the lagoon are perfect for children to see small fish.
Projeto Tamar (Sea Turtle Center)
Located in Barra da Lagoa, this is the highlight for most children. This conservation center allows families to see various species of sea turtles in rehabilitation tanks. It’s educational, stroller-friendly, and manageable in about 90 minutes.
Barra da Lagoa Canal
Finish your weekend with a walk along the picturesque canal. The area is flat and filled with small cafes. It’s a great spot to grab an ice cream and watch the colorful fishing boats return to the harbor after a day at sea.
Best Time & Weather
The best time to visit Florianópolis with family is during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm (around 20°C to 26°C), and you avoid the massive crowds and heavy traffic of the peak summer months (December to February). Summer can be very humid and congested, which can be challenging when traveling with small children.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including beach kiosks and small markets. However, it's useful to carry a small amount of cash for tips or small purchases from street vendors. Tipping is generally included in restaurant bills as a 10% service charge, but rounding up is always appreciated for exceptional service.
Getting Around
For families, the most efficient way to get around is by using ride-sharing apps like Uber, which is very affordable and reliable in Florianópolis. If you plan on exploring multiple beaches in one day, renting a car is a great option and allows you to keep a stroller in the trunk. Public buses exist but can be crowded and are often not the most comfortable choice when traveling with children and gear.
