LAGOINHA DO LESTE

This is what you came to Florianópolis for. Lagoinha do Leste is probably the most beautiful area on the island. Besides having a small beach (about one kilometer long) with soft sand and blue ocean, it also boasts a fresh-water lake and plenty of small streams feeding into the ocean. The beach and lake are surrounded by the mountains of the Lagoinha do Leste Municipal Park, an area protected by the state and where it’s forbidden to divide the land or create any structures. As such, the area is wild and natural and unspoiled by civilization. The park also has the effect of obstructing access to the beach and lake, keeping the number of visitors down. Since there are no constructions here, you will not find any kiosks or bars on the beach, so be sure to bring your own food and water and be prepared for a semi-difficult hike in order to arrive (be sure to use tennis shoes).

There are two trails leading to the beach—from Armação to the north and from Pântano do Sul to the south. The southern trail is the shortest and most popular. It takes about 1.5 hours and goes straight up the mountain. At the top, you can rest and take in the incredible view before making your descent into paradise. The trail from Armação passes through Praia Matadeiro and then into the forest. There are incredible views along this trail as it follows the coast. It takes about three hours to complete. Note: after heavy rains, the ground along these trails can be soft and dangerous and you should take care as you hike, especially when going downhill. These trails are characterized as semi-difficult.

You can camp out at Lagoinha do Leste around the lake area. There are signs indicating where you can pitch your tent. They ask you not to make a fire using the dry brush in the area but to bring your own materials. You can drink the water that comes in from the streams and small waterfalls.