Florianópolis, or as locals call it “Floripa”, a city nestled on the stunning island of Santa Catarina, Brazil, is not only a paradise for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts but also a vibrant spot for socializing and romantic ventures. Fortunately for me, I had already found my bronzed Brazilian beauty in Rio de Janeiro, and decided to bring her along with me on an excursion to explore Florianópolis.
While large Brazilian cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paolo, can be a daunting task to navigate geographically, Florianópolis, a smaller city, was a breathe of fresh air and can be figured out within a few days. And in the realm of dating, I crafted this guide to help you explore the ins and outs of finding love or having a fun dating experience in the beautiful Florianópolis while appreciating the local charm and safety the city has to offer.
If you want a full guide on dating in Brazil, check out: The Ultimate Guide To Dating Women in Brazil | My Experience & Tips
Meeting Women In Florianópolis
The heart of Florianopolis’s dating scene beats strongest in “Centro,” specifically around the enchanting Ciclovia Beira Mar Norte area. Contrary to what the name might imply, Ciclovia Beira Mar Norte isn’t actually a street; it’s a picturesque pathway brimming with life, where locals enjoy cycling, exercising, and leisurely strolls beside the mesmerizing ocean. The setting is ripe for meeting cute Brazilian women and social mingling.
A stone’s throw from the ocean path, you will find Beiramar Shopping Mall, bustling with locals and offering a comfortable environment to meet new people, enjoy a coffee, or even start a casual conversation that might lead to an impromptu date. To my surprise, the Beiramar mall had one of my favorite restaurant chains that I recognized from the United States – Outback Steakhouse, and it was a pleasure to let my date try the famous “bloomin’ onion” for the first time (she didn’t like it).
Further down the path is a romantic pier: Trapiche Beira Mar Norte Avenue, easily located via Google Maps. The pier located there acts as a beacon for social activities, offering a unique spot to connect with others against the backdrop of Florianópolis’s expansive azure waters.
Online Dating In Florianópolis
Unlike megacities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, Florianópolis’s charm lies in its smaller population and more intimate setting, which directly influences the online dating game. In my experience, the best recommendations for dating apps would be Tinder and Bumble. Their broad user bases ensure they are active platforms even in less populated cities, making them ideal for foreigners looking to connect with local singles without delving into the lesser-known apps that may not boast a significant presence on the island.
When using these apps in Florianópolis, it’s beneficial to mention your various interests that might resonate with the lifestyle here, such as enjoying the beaches, hiking, or a penchant for exploring local cafes.
Also see: Comparing Brazil & Colombia: Which Is Better To Meet Women?
Good Date Ideas In Florianópolis
To craft an unforgettable date in Florianópolis, you can’t go wrong by revisiting the ever-popular Beiramar Shopping Mall (mentioned earlier), which provides a convenient place to meet before embarking on a beautiful walk. From here, it’s only a short distance to the Ciclovia Beira Mar Norte, a perfect venue to indulge in conversation while basking in the awe-inspiring sunset. On weekends along the pathway are many small boutique stands where you can purchase souvenirs or hand-made local items as well as fresh coconut drinks and smoothies.
Take your date on a leisurely saunter down to the pier, especially on weekends. On Sunday evenings, the pier comes alive with salsa dances, where you can either join in or enjoy the captivating performances from a comfortable seat, soaking in the rhythm and ambiance at the same time as the sunset. The vibe was was incredible and romantic.
For a more adventurous experience, consider taking day trips to one or more of the 40+ beaches that grace the island part of Florianópolis. Each beach has its own unique flavor, and a day trip offers ample opportunities to create shared memories amidst the wonders of sand, sea, and sun.
Is Florianópolis Safe?
If you are like me, maybe you might be hesitant visiting Brazil based on safety concerns. And yes, safety is a paramount concern when considering any new locale for dating, and the good news is Florianópolis is often cited as one of the safest cities in Brazil. I found this to be true in my experience, even walking at night around Florianópolis.
Av. Hercílio Luz, where my AirBnb was, features a delightful walking pathway ideal for romantic evening strolls. While no place is completely devoid of crime, taking common-sense precautions in Florianópolis generally ensures a safe and enjoyable dating experience. It’s best not to dress flashy or wear expensive wearables such as watches or jewelry, although that is an even higher priority in cities like Rio de Janeiro.