Florianopolis

Florianopolis home to some of the nicest beaches in Brazil !

City Overview

Florianopolis is the capital and second largest city of the state of Santa Catarina, in the South region of Brazil. It is composed of one main island, Santa Catarina Island, a continental part and surrounding small islands.

The economy of Florianopolis is heavily based on information technology and tourism. The city has 60 beaches and is a centre for surfing. Florianopolis is also considered a party destination. It is also a destination for holiday homes for many Paulistas and foreigners.

Most of the population lives on the mainland and on the island's central and northern parts.

With its sandy beaches, tanned denizens and happening nightlife, it's no surprise that this tiny but loud city has a full blown gay scene (GLS) of its own. Floripa, for short, has world renowned beaches. February brings the carnival featuring the city's best drag queens and transgender performers. The gay pride celebrations are in September.

Airport Transfer

The main airport is Hercílio Luz International Airport, 14 kilometres (9 miles) from downtown Florianopolis.

Several bus lines operate in the city. Tickets can be bought from a "cobrador" (NOT the driver) a couple of seats down by the turnstile.

Places to stay

Florianopolis has a small number of gay owned and operated bed and breakfast, pousada and small boutique hotels as well as number of very gay friendly places to stay. It is always wise to book your accommodation in advance to guarantee availability and choice. As the city is a popular weekend destination you should reserve in advance. All accommodation bookable on this site are exclusively gay or gay friendly so you are assured to be welcome.

Florianopolis Beaches

There are 2 main beaches popular with the gay community.

Praia Mole is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island is conveniently located a five minute walk from Lagoa. It is therefore no wonder why the locals choose Mole as their tanning hotspot. The gays hang out around Bar Do Deca and the nude areas of the beach.

Praia Galheta is the only nudist beach in Floripa. This popular nudist beach caters for gay or straight. Some gay cruising does tend to happen in the bushes behind the dunes.

Bars, Clubs & Parties

The nightlife scene is relatively small in Florianopolis.

Bar do Deca is the last bar on Praia Mole before you reach Galheta the nudist beach. The bar and beach attracts a mixed crowd and is very popular during the high season.

Conca aka Concorde Club is a large, popular mixed dance club with five bars and terrace, mostly guys, drag shows/performers, guest DJs. Address Avenida Rio Branco 729.

Denys Club has three bars, DJs, drag shows, go-go dancers, nude strippers and a darkroom. Address Rua Joao Grumiche 437.

Hunter bar is a men's cruise bar/lounge with darkroom, maze, cabins and themed party nights. Address Rua Padre Roma, 431.

Jonas 570 is a gay bar for strong drinks with DJs, karaoke nights, theme parties & bear events. Address Rua Francisco Tolentino 570.

Cafes & Restaurants

Depending on where you are staying Barcelona is full of cafes and restaurants. If you are staying in the Eixample neighbourhood the majority of place to eat and drink are gay friendly. The choice of different types of food is great and you should not starve except if looking for something to eat late at night after clubbing when only kebab fast food places will be open.

Saunas

Sauna Adelino is a men's sauna and steam rooms, massage therapy and cruise area. Address Av. Ver. Nagib Jabor, 356.

Sauna Thermas Oceano is a steam/sauna with porn video lounges, darkroom, therapeutic massage, maze, glory holes and a bar, Address Rua Luiz Delfino, 231.

Main LGBT Events

The two main LGBT events in Florianopolis is carnival featuring the city's best drag queens and transgender performers in February. The gay pride celebrations are in September.

Other

Currency – Brazilian Real (BRL)

Language - Portuguese

Visas - Not needed for travellers from the US, Canada and Europe

Best Time To Visit – November - March

Timezone – Brasilia Standard Time - GMT + 3 hours

Homosexual Activity - Legal