Things To Do
in Campina da Lagoa
Campina da Lagoa is a lagoon-side neighborhood in Florianópolis, bridging freshwater channels with the Atlantic coast. It offers a relaxed, water-centric vibe with easy access to beaches, trails, and vibrant markets. Visitors enjoy seafood-forward cuisine, scenic walks along the lagoa, and friendly local culture.
The area serves as a gateway to both nature and city life on Santa Catarina's island.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Campina da Lagoa's historic center, where colonial architecture and colorful buildings greet you at every corner. Visit the local church, Igreja Nossa Senhora Aparecida, and admire its intricate details and peaceful ambiance. Stop by a local bakery to savor traditional Brazilian pastries with your morning coffee.
After lunch at a cozy restaurant featuring regional cuisine, continue your exploration by visiting the Museu Histórico Municipal. The museum showcases the rich history and culture of the region through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Spend some time at the nearby Parque dos Pioneiros, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or relax under the shade of the trees.
As the sun sets, head to a local plaza where you can experience the vibrant community life of Campina da Lagoa. Join locals for a lively evening of music or dance, perhaps even participating in a traditional folk dance. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties such as 'picanha' or 'feijoada' while soaking in the warm atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a guided hike in the stunning Serra do Cadeado, known for its lush landscapes and diverse flora. As you trek through the trails, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including colorful birds and unique plant species. The morning light filtering through the trees creates a magical atmosphere as you make your way to scenic viewpoints.
After reaching the summit and enjoying a well-deserved picnic lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the various trails that wind through the area. Capture breathtaking photographs of the panoramic views and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Don't forget to hydrate and take breaks to really appreciate the surrounding beauty.
Return to Campina da Lagoa in the early evening, where you can unwind at your accommodation or a nearby café. Reflect on your day while enjoying a refreshing drink and perhaps a light snack. As darkness falls, take a leisurely stroll through town, enjoying the cooler air and the sounds of the nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5L) at bar | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/latte | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant lagoon-side scenery and easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and affordable travel in a safe, walkable area
- Humidity and occasional rain can be intense
- Tourist crowds in peak season and during festivals
- "Olá, tudo bem?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Pode me recomendar um prato local?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Campina da Lagoa
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on the water with boats, hills, and pastel-roofed houses as a backdrop.
Wooden houses, mangroves, and lagoon vistas along a scenic river path.
Iconic city bridge framing sunsets and skyline shots.
Wind-carved dunes, surfers, and vibrant sunsets perfect for dynamic landscape photography.
Colorful stalls, vendors, and architectural details for lively street photography.
Food in Campina da Lagoa
Campina da Lagoa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish stew made with coconut milk and dendê (palm) oil, commonly found in coastal Floripa eateries.
Must-Try!
Shrimp cooked in a creamy pumpkin sauce, a festive dish often served in coastal restaurants.
Seafood-filled pastries popular at seaside stalls and markets.
Polvo (octopus) with saffron-infused rice, a flavorful option at seafood-focused menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in the city center offering fresh fish, spices, cheeses and ready-to-eat snacks.
Casual stalls near the lagoon serving pastel, fish skewers and refreshing açaí bowls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Portuguese is the preferred language; greetings are polite. Use senhor/senhora for elders and formal situations; a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek among friends is common.
Respect posted rules, keep noise down near quiet zones, and avoid leaving litter on beaches.
Safety
Tipping in Campina da Lagoa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping is appreciated but not strictly required. If service is good and not included, 10% is customary at restaurants; small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are common.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors. PIX and other digital payments are popular and widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dec–Feb: hot and humid with sea breeze; peak beach season, higher crowds and occasional tropical rain showers.
Mar–May: cooler nights, mild days; great for outdoor trails and quieter beaches.
Jun–Aug: cooler but comfortable daytime temperatures; some rainfall; light jackets recommended.
Sep–Nov: pleasant and blooming; ideal for hiking and lagoon activities with moderate humidity.
Campina da Lagoa at Night
Hiking in Campina da Lagoa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic lagoon-side hike with viewpoints and a village at the end; typical round-trip 2-3 hours.
A vantage point offering sweeping views over the lagoon and beaches.
Airports
How to reach Campina da Lagoa by plane.
Primary airport serving Florianópolis; typically about a 30-60 minute drive from Campina da Lagoa depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students from local universities, and professionals.
Domestic and international visitors, especially in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Joaquina and nearby beaches are popular surf spots with lessons and rental shops.
Common on beaches and promenades around Lagoa and coast.
Popular on Lagoa da Conceição for calm-water paddling and sightseeing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Campina da Lagoa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most eateries. Look for grilled vegetables, riverside salads, rice and beans, cheese platters, and fruit-based desserts; politely request no fish stock or seafood broth in dishes.