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Hi there, it’s Matt Wilson, CEO and Co-founder of the tour operator, Under30Experiences. I just traveled to Florianopolis and am thrilled to tell you about the safety in Florianopolis. I’ve been doing business in South America for over a decade, sending thousands of travelers to this continent, and I have written many comprehensive travel safety briefings for places all around the world. All insights in this guide are based on my firsthand experience during my December 2025–January 2026 trip.
When I learned how safe Florianopolis is, I wanted to check it out for myself! I wanted to scout out destinations for a future trip with U30X, and train jiujitsu in one of the world’s meccas. I brought along my wife and five-year-old, so you know, I took travel quite seriously and did my homework!
Quick Answer: Is Florianopolis safe?
Florianópolis Safety Summary (2026)
• Overall: One of the safest destinations in Brazil
• Crime against tourists: Low
• Main risk: petty theft on crowded beaches
• Safest areas: Jurerê, Lagoa da Conceição, Campeche
• Safest time to visit: shoulder seasons (March–May, Sept–Nov)
• Verdict: Excellent choice for first-time Brazil travelers
Floripa (Florianópolis) consistently ranks safer than mainland Brazilian cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, or Salvador. Florianopolis’ crime rate is notably lower than in Brazil’s major metro areas.
Crime exists, but violent crime against tourists is low, especially in the island’s resort and beach districts. Always use common sense and don’t leave your belongings unattended on the beach, especially during busy tourist seasons, where you could be a victim of an opportunistic crime.
If you are interested in travel safety in Latin America, you’ll love my comprehensive guides to Costa Rica, where I lived for years, Chile, where my wife is from, Puerto Rico, where I currently live, as well as Bogota, Punta Cana, and Cuba.
Many people are skeptical about safety in Brazil, and rightfully so. Every Brazilian I know from the jiu-jitsu community always tells me to be careful down there. On my last trip to Rio de Janeiro, I was sure to keep my head on a swivel. I even got to see inside two favelas, one with a guided tour and the other where a friend teaching English was living, so trust me, I’ve seen both the dangerous parts of Brazil and the incredibly safe parts like Floripa, as the locals refer to it.
In this guide to safety in Florianopolis, you’ll learn…
- Is Florianopolis, Brazil, Safe right now?
- Crime in Florianópolis: What Tourists Should Know
- What areas of Florianopolis should I stay in?
- When is the safest time of year to visit Floripa?
- What areas of Florianopolis should I avoid?
- What activities are safe in Florianopolis?
- What is the safest way to get around Florianopolis?
- What scams exist?
- Is Florianopolis safe for solo female travelers?
- Are there natural disasters?
- What hospitals and clinics should I go to?
- Is there ever civil unrest?
- Do I have to worry about gangs, cartels, and narcos?
- Is nightlife safe in Florianopolis?
- Should I buy travel insurance when traveling to Brazil?
- Are group trips to Brazil safe?
- FAQ / People Also Ask
- Should I travel to Florianopolis?
Is Florianopolis Safe Right Now?
Yes! Florianopolis is one of the safest areas in Brazil, especially for tourists. During my time in Florianopolis, I felt safe at all times. I got the safety briefing from the black belt we were staying with, and he assured us, as long as we used basic safety precautions, we’d be sure to stay out of trouble.
Just like you were in any big city, be careful when you go out at night, don’t get too drunk, don’t walk alone, and keep your wits about you. Don’t leave your stuff unattended on the beach, and you should be fine. I always carry my items in dry bags to make sure accidents don’t happen, like getting caught in a downpour, or my water bottle opening up and shorting out my laptop. It’s always good to put your valuables in dry bags for this reason. You can read The Millennial Travel Guidebook, where I tell the story of getting my passport wet and getting grilled by immigration in Indonesia!
Crime in Florianópolis: What Tourists Should Know
Most crime in Florianópolis is petty theft, especially on busy beaches and nightlife streets during peak season. Violent crime rarely affects tourists, and the island’s resort areas have a strong security presence. Compared to Rio or São Paulo, Florianópolis sees significantly lower violent crime rates, especially in tourist zones.
What areas of Florianopolis should I stay in?
If you are wondering where to stay in Florianopolis, Floripa has several neighborhoods that are safe, walkable, and perfect for travelers. The best areas offer beach access, good restaurants, and easy transportation.
Safe Florianopolis neighborhoods:
• Campeche
This is basically where I stayed, technically in Rio Tavares, just a couple of blocks from the beach and only a short ride from the airport. Campeche is a fantastic base if you want peace and quiet, great food, and quick access to surf breaks. It’s a safe, laid-back area with everything you need close by.
• Novo Campeche
A modern beachfront extension of Campeche with newer cafés, surf schools, and bike paths. Novo Campeche has a slightly more polished feel and is popular with surfers, expats, and families. If you like the Campeche vibe but want something a bit more developed, this is a great choice.
• Jurerê Internacional
One of the safest and most upscale neighborhoods on the island. Clean beaches, great restaurants, and a very walkable environment make it a top pick for first-time visitors who want an easy, low-stress stay.
• Lagoa da Conceição
A lively central hub with cafés, nightlife, water sports, and access to multiple beaches. It’s great for solo travelers, digital nomads, and anyone who wants a more social scene with plenty to do.
• Santinho / Ingleses (North Island)
Safe and fully developed beach towns, especially popular with families. They get busier in peak season but offer lots of amenities and wide, swimmable beaches.
Bottom line:
Stick to Campeche, Novo Campeche, Jurerê Internacional, Lagoa da Conceição, or the northern beach towns, and you’ll have a safe, easy, and enjoyable stay in Florianópolis.
When is Florianopolis safest?
During high season, the island fills up with tourists from Christmas until Carnival, and during this time, crime does increase, mainly taking advantage of people who are unsuspecting and having too much fun. You may want to avoid coming in peak season, or during the dead of winter, June - August, when areas can feel deserted, especially at night. I’m a big fan of traveling during shoulder season, just before or after peak season.
It’s also important to know that the level of English in Brazil is quite low, as Florianopolis generally receives tourists from South America. In my experience, it’s much easier to get around in Spanish in Brazil than it is in English. If a Spanish speaker and a Portuguese speaker want to understand each other, if they speak slowly and clearly, they can usually understand each other. That said, Brazilians who work in tourism are often bilingual or tri-lingual and are more than willing to help out.
What areas of Florianopolis should I avoid?
Stick to the main tourist areas in Florianopolis, and you should be just fine. There aren’t areas that have major red flags, but it’s important to be situationally aware in the following areas:
- Centro (Downtown) – fine during the day, more sketchy late at night.
- Canasvieiras – touristy and safe, but known for petty theft.
- Morro das Pedras / Rio Vermelho – more isolated; be cautious at night.
- Ingleses – safe but busy; petty theft in peak season can be an issue.
What activities are safe in Florianopolis?
When I heard a friend of mine who used to lead trips to Brazil for Under30Experiences was moving there with his family, I knew Floripa had to be safe. Outside of the miles and miles of beaches, I didn’t go with many expectations, but I knew I wanted to surf, hike, practice jiujitsu, and eat amazing Brazilian food.
Safe Activities to Enjoy in Florianópolis
Florianópolis is known for being one of Brazil’s safest destinations for outdoor adventure, and most popular activities are very low-risk when done in the right areas. Here are some of the safest things to do on the island:
1. Relaxing on the Beaches (Daytime)
Daytime beachgoing is one of the safest activities in Floripa. Popular, lifeguarded beaches such as Jurerê Internacional, Praia Mole, Joaquina, and Campeche are well-patrolled and full of travelers. As long as you keep an eye on your belongings, these areas are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and lounging. Playa Campeche was a true shopping experience right on the beach. Vendors roll up with everything from beach toys to wood fired pizza ovens on wheels.
2. Surf Lessons & Water Sports
Florianópolis is a surf-friendly island with well-regulated schools that operate on major beaches. Taking a surf lesson, renting a board, or trying stand-up paddleboarding in calm waters (like Lagoa da Conceição) are all safe, structured activities. Reputable surf schools monitor conditions and keep beginners in supervised zones.
3. Hiking on Marked Trails
The island has several scenic trails that are safe during daylight hours. Well-known routes such as the hike to Lagoinha do Leste or the Costa da Lagoa Trail are frequented by both locals and tourists. Stick to marked paths, start early, and avoid hiking alone at dusk for a safe experience.
4. Boat Tours & Ilha do Campeche
Organized boat tours are considered very safe in Florianópolis. A visit to Ilha do Campeche, famous for turquoise water and soft sand, is one of the top low-risk excursions. Licensed operators follow strict safety protocols, and the island has controlled entry to prevent overcrowding.
5. Paddleboarding & Biking Around the Island
Calm areas like Lagoa da Conceição are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and other low-impact water sports. On land, neighborhoods such as Jurerê, Canasvieiras, and parts of Lagoa offer bike paths that are safe and enjoyable for casual riding.
6. Visiting Local Markets & Historic Villages
Exploring the Mercado Público, browsing craft markets, or wandering the colonial streets of Santo Antônio de Lisboa are relaxed, safe activities—especially during the day. These areas have a strong community presence and are among the island’s most charming and authentic places to explore.
7. Practice Brazilian Jiu-jitsu
BJJ gyms in Florianópolis are very safe, clean environments, and visiting students are welcomed warmly.
Training BJJ has been one of the most gratifying experiences of my life and coming to train in Brazil was on my bucket list. If you want to spend extended time in Brazil getting good at it, this would be a great place to stay, as it can be an affordable retreat destination.
Some famous academies like Gracie Barra are very traditional and want you to buy their uniforms (both gi and no gi), so if you are a visitor, you’ll probably just want to find a gym that offers drop-ins to visitors where you can wear the gear you normally wear. Joao Zeferino Academy has a cafe right next door so you can even grab a coffee and watch high level black belts spar.
As you would in any martial art, be respectful, listen to the instructors, and show humility, and you’ll find that the locals will love training with you. Also, strongly consider booking an Airbnb with a washing machine. Showing up with clean gear is basic etiquette in Brazilian gyms. Show up smelling good and shower after to avoid skin infections.
What is the safest way to get around Florianopolis?
Why Uber is the safest option
The safest form of transportation in Florianopolis is Uber. We took them all over town. Uber is extremely affordable in Florianópolis—most rides cost $2–$8 USD. I always selected Uber Comfort Electric which usually sent us a new EV which is both safer and more sustainable than all the other cars on the road. It’s only slightly more expensive.
Taxis are also recommended, but if you don’t speak Portuguese, communication can be more difficult. If you speak Spanish, I recommend learning a little “Portuñol,” as you can easily convert your Spanish into Portuguese. The languages share about 85% of the same vocabulary, but the words are said a little differently, of course. You are much better off trying to get around in Spanish than you are in English.
There is also a local Brazilian ride-hailing app called 99, but I didn’t get a chance to try it.
What scams exist?
Florianopolis is pretty laid back, but do watch out for overpriced beach parking (“flanelinhas” unofficial attendants). ATMs with high fees or skimmers are rampant throughout Brazil. I recommend using major banks only. A friend living in Brazil once sent me a video of criminals installing a skimmer at an ATM inside the São Paolo airport!
Beach vendors upselling or charging foreigners more are also common, just like you would find in any part of Latin America. In Rio, I bought a Neymar jersey on the beach, and a Brazilian friend scolded me for getting ripped off. I just smiled because the souvenir still only cost $8 USD.
Is Florianopolis safe for solo female travelers?
Floripa is much safer than most Brazilian cities for solo women. It’d be my number one pick if I were a woman. Compared to cities like Rio or São Paulo, Florianópolis has noticeably lower levels of street harassment, which is one reason many solo women say they feel more relaxed and comfortable here.
I stayed with a BJJ black belt who hosts many solo female surfers and jiu-jitsu practitioners on his property, and it is within walking distance to a great surf break and a handful of gyms where it is perfectly safe to train.
As I mentioned earlier in the nightlife section, stick to Lagoa or Jurerê, use rideshares, and avoid walking home late. The beaches are safe during the day, but I never paddle out to a surf break alone. But as long as you don’t come in the winter, there is almost always someone else in the water. Avoid secluded nature trails alone and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back when you go hiking. Dropping a quick note to your Airbnb host or your hotel receptionist is always a good idea
Are there natural disasters?
Florianópolis is generally a very low-risk destination when it comes to natural disasters. The island doesn’t experience hurricanes, tropical cyclones, or major seismic activity, which already puts it ahead of many other coastal destinations around the world.
That said, there are a few things travelers should know:
• Seasonal storms:
Floripa can get heavy rain and strong winds, especially during the summer months (December–March). These storms usually pass quickly, but they can cause temporary beach closures or rough ocean conditions.
• Strong rip currents:
This is the biggest natural “hazard” visitors should be aware of. Beaches on the eastern side of the island—like Mole, Joaquina, and Campeche—are known for powerful surf. Always swim near lifeguards and pay attention to beach flag warnings.
• Occasional flooding:
Certain low-lying areas can flood during periods of heavy rain, especially in the summer. As a visitor, this usually just means avoiding driving through large puddles or planning extra travel time.
Overall, natural disaster risk in Florianópolis is very low. Use common-sense beach safety, keep an eye on weather forecasts, and you’ll have absolutely nothing to worry about on your trip.
What hospitals and clinics should I go to?
If you need medical care in Florianópolis, go to a private hospital. The service is faster, the facilities are more modern, and if you have travel insurance, it’s absolutely worth it. Here are the best options for travelers:
Best Private Hospitals in Florianópolis
• Hospital Baía Sul (Centro)
The top choice for visitors. Modern, clean, and efficient, with a full emergency department and specialists on call. This is where most expats and travelers go when they need medical attention.
• Ilha Hospital (Centro)
Another excellent private hospital with short wait times and solid emergency care. Highly rated locally and easy to reach from most tourist areas.
• Hospital Dr. Carlos Corrêa (Centro)
A reliable private option known for good service and quality treatment. Great if you're staying in or around downtown.
For Minor Medical Issues: Urgent Care Clinics & Pharmacies
If you’re dealing with something small—food poisoning, flu symptoms, a cut that needs cleaning, head to a UPA (Unidade de Pronto Atendimento) or a private urgent care clinic. Pharmacies (farmácias) are also extremely helpful in Brazil and can provide over-the-counter medication and basic guidance.
Bottom line:
Skip the public hospitals unless it’s a life-threatening emergency. Private hospitals in Florianópolis offer the best and fastest care for travelers.
What are the emergency numbers in Florianopolis?
Brazil has a straightforward national emergency system, and the same numbers apply everywhere, including Florianópolis. Save these in your phone when you arrive—this is the fastest way to get help in any situation.
- • Police (Polícia Militar): 190
Call this for any crime, threat, or safety issue. This is the number travelers will use most often if something serious happens. - • Ambulance / Medical Emergency (SAMU): 192
Dial 192 for urgent medical situations where someone needs an ambulance or immediate care. - • Fire Department & Rescue (Corpo de Bombeiros): 193
Used for fires, serious accidents, water rescues, and other urgent emergencies. - • Civil Defense (Defesa Civil): 199
For natural hazards like flooding, landslides, or severe weather alerts. - • Civil Police (Non-Emergency): 197
For reporting issues that are not immediate threats—filing reports, follow-ups, or non-urgent police assistance.
Pro Tip:
- If you’re unsure which number to call, any of the main emergency lines (190, 192, 193) can route you to the correct service.
Is there ever civil unrest?
Florianópolis does not experience regular civil unrest. Protests do happen occasionally, as in most large Brazilian cities, but they are typically peaceful, localized, and announced in advance, often related to national political or economic issues rather than targeting tourists. Travelers are rarely affected, and the simple advice is to avoid protest areas if one is taking place and follow local news. Overall, civil unrest is not a common concern for visitors to Florianópolis.
Do I have to worry about gangs, cartels, and narcos?
Luckily, most of the gang activity happens in other parts of Brazil, like Rio or São Paolo, but of course it’d be naive to think these things didn’t exist in Floripa. Luckily, however, these types of things don’t affect tourists, so it’s not something you need to concern yourself with. Again, use basic common sense, like keeping your valuables locked up, don’t flaunt wealth, watch for pickpockets, don’t leave your stuff unattended on the beach, or walk alone at night. These are things I’d tell you in any city around the world.
Is nightlife safe in Florianopolis?
There is plenty of nightlife in Florianópolis designed for tourists, and yes, it’s safe to take part in if you use normal precautions. Bars and clubs in Lagoa and Jurerê are fun but can attract pickpockets.
Drink spiking is rare but worth mentioning. The safest drink you can order anywhere in the world is bottled water (half joking, half serious). The next safest option at a bar is bottled beer that you see the bartender open in front of you. Don’t leave your drink unattended, and if you want extra peace of mind, you can stand or dance with your thumb over the top of the bottle.
While I didn’t stay out very late, as I was there with my family, you can always find something going on during peak tourist season without needing to party until sunrise. Floripa is definitely a great destination to enjoy yourself.
As always, arrange a ride home instead of walking. Ride apps like Uber and 99 are cheap and widely used. Don’t walk home alone at night.
Should I buy travel insurance when traveling to Brazil?
Travel insurance is always a good idea! Things can go wrong anywhere in the world, so I always suggest buying travel insurance to protect you from trip interruptions, lost or stolen luggage, and medical expenses.
Now, a word from my lawyers, “This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance,” and I need to disclose that I get compensated if you purchase the travel insurance at no extra cost to you. I direct people to Wanderwell, SafetyWing, and World Nomads.
Are group trips to Brazil safe?
Traveling in a group is one of the safest ways to experience a country, especially when you don’t speak the local language and the levels of English are low. There is strength in numbers; you can use the “buddy system,” and your local guide is there to advise you on how to stay safe in the areas where they bring you.
We are currently redesigning our Brazil itinerary, and we’d love to have you on an Under30Experiences trip for solo travelers ages 21-35. We also have trips for people in their 30s and 40s!
FAQs/People Also Ask:
Is Florianópolis safe for Americans?
Yes. Americans are very unlikely to encounter safety issues in Florianópolis. Stick to the main tourist areas, use rideshares, and avoid flashing valuables — the same advice you’d follow anywhere.
Is Florianópolis safer than Rio?
Absolutely. Florianópolis has significantly lower violent crime rates than Rio de Janeiro. Most visitors say the island feels calmer, cleaner, and far more relaxed.
Can you walk around Florianópolis at night?
In busy areas like Jurerê, Lagoa da Conceição, and parts of Campeche, it’s generally fine — but avoid walking alone late at night. Use Uber or 99 for the safest experience.
Is Lagoa da Conceição safe?
Yes. Lagoa is one of the most popular and safest areas for tourists, digital nomads, and solo travelers. Petty theft can occur late at night, so use normal precautions.
Is Florianópolis safe for digital nomads?
Very. The island has a strong remote-work community, good Wi-Fi hubs, safe neighborhoods, and a laid-back lifestyle. Popular nomad areas include Lagoa da Conceição, Campeche, and Novo Campeche.
Is Florianópolis safe to swim?
Yes — as long as you swim on lifeguarded beaches and pay attention to flag warnings. Some beaches (Mole, Joaquina, Campeche) have strong rip currents, but conditions are clearly marked and monitored.
Should I travel to Florianopolis?
Final Verdict: Absolutely. If you're looking for one of the safest places to visit in Brazil, Florianópolis should be at the top of your list. It’s one of the safest and most enjoyable destinations in the country, especially if you stick to the main beaches and neighborhoods, avoid secluded areas at night, and use basic common sense.
I haven’t explored nearly enough of Brazil to claim to be a Brazil expert, but Floripa was amazing. If you want a low-stress trip to Brazil, I highly recommend checking it out.
PS: If you train jiu-jitsu, hit me up on Instagram and I can connect you with some great spots in Floripa and help you plan your next team retreat.
