Mocambique Beach (Praia do Moçambique)
São João do Rio Vermelho, Florianópolis, Brazil
Nestled among the lush greenery of Florianopolis’ northeasterly tip, Mocambique Beach (Praia do Moçambique, also called Mozambique Beach) is a pristine stretch of sand that’s part of Rio Vermelho State Park, which showcases the biodiversity of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. Because it’s only accessible by 4-wheel drive, the beach sees far fewer crowds than other parts of Floripa.
The basics
Mocambique Beach is a great place to enjoy the tranquility of nature; you won’t find any high-rise hotels or blaring beach bars here. It’s also a popular spot with intermediate and experienced surfers thanks to the quality of its waves. You might pass the beach on snorkeling boat trips that increase your chance of spotting sea turtles, or on sandboarding tours that let you soar down the sandy dunes surrounding the beach.
Things to know before you go
If you’d like to stay overnight, there’s a campsite by the beach.
You can’t rent beach umbrellas or loungers here, so be sure to bring what you need.
Several restaurants a short walk from the beach serve snacks, hot meals, and cold drinks, including fresh coconuts.
How to get there
Northeast Florianopolis is much less developed than the center and south, so it’s more difficult to reach by public transportation. If you have your own all-terrain wheels, you can take Rod. João Gualberto Soares for 1 hour from the Centro Histórico.
When to get there
The best time to visit Florianopolis for warm weather and sunny skies is during the South American summer months from December through March, though hotel prices and crowds can be an issue then. The shoulder season of October and November sees more rain but fewer people.
What to see in Rio Vermelho State Park
If you love nature, it’s worth sticking around for the delights of Rio Vermelho State Park. Take a tour of the Ecological Trail of Rio Vermelho Park (PAERVE Trail) with a park ranger, which takes you along a wooden boardwalk and helps you learn more about the fascinating flora and fauna of the forest.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!