Few places in Brazil let you leave an open-sea beach and, fifteen minutes later, dive into warm, calm fresh water surrounded by Atlantic Forest. That is what Lagoa do Peri offers, in the south of Florianópolis island — the largest freshwater lagoon on the Santa Catarina coast and the main source of drinking water for the south of the island. Around it, the Sertão do Peri preserves century-old manioc flour mills and trails that tell the island’s Azorean history.
Getting there
The main entrance is on the SC-406 road, just past Morro das Pedras, about 25 km from downtown Florianópolis. By car, access is simple and there is free parking at the headquarters. By bus, the lines serving the south of the island (such as 560, 563 and 564) stop right in front of the entrance — confirm schedules on the municipal transport app before setting out.
Swimming in the lagoon
Sheltered from the wind and free of currents, the lagoon has warm, shallow water near the shore, which makes it one of the best family swims in Floripa. The bathing area sits next to the conservation unit headquarters, with shade, a lawn and kiosks nearby. Kayaking and stand-up paddling are allowed in designated areas — motorized watercraft are not, since the lagoon is a drinking-water source. For the same reason, avoid slathering on sunscreen right before entering the water: prefer applying it after your swim and wearing a UV shirt.
The Gurita Trail and the waterfalls
The most popular trail is the Gurita, about 3 km through the forest up to a lookout over the lagoon. Along the Sertão do Peri path, other trails lead to small waterfalls and the ruins of old mills. The terrain has climbs, roots and slippery stretches after rain — shoes with good grip solve it. Hiring local guides enriches the walk with stories from the community.
The flour mills
The Sertão do Peri is one of the last strongholds of the island’s rural Azorean culture. Some manioc flour mills still operate and can be visited during flour-making season, usually in fall and winter. It is a living history lesson: the ox turning the almanjarra, the wood-fired oven, the flour coming out hot. If you get the chance, try the beiju made on the spot.
🥾 Who is it for?
Lagoon swimming: a light activity, ideal for children of all ages (with supervision), seniors and people with reduced mobility — the headquarters area is flat and the water is easy to reach, one of the most democratic swims on the island. Gurita Trail: a moderate activity, good for children from age 7 used to walking and adults with basic fitness; not suitable for wheelchair users or people with serious mobility difficulties, due to the uneven terrain. Kayak and SUP: a light to moderate activity, from age 10 for those who can swim, always with a life vest.
Practical tips
Visiting is free and the unit operates during the day — arrive early on summer weekends, when the parking lot fills up. Bring water and snacks, and carry all your trash back out. The lagoon has been protected since 1981 and is today the Lagoa do Peri Municipal Natural Monument — a former Municipal Park, recategorized in 2019 by Municipal Law 10,530: the rules exist to keep clean the water that supplies thousands of homes. Combine the outing with Armação Beach, right next door, or with neighboring Guarda do Embaú, on the mainland.