Lagoinha do Leste Beach: Florianópolis's Hidden Paradise
Discover Florianópolis's best-kept secret: a pristine beach paradise accessible by hiking or boat, offering natural beauty and tranquility.
Lagoinha do Leste Beach, often called Florianópolis's "secret beach," is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Located on the southeastern coast of Ilha de Santa Catarina, it's separated from the urban bustle by the surrounding Atlantic Forest and steep cliffs. The beach's isolation, accessible only by foot or boat, has helped preserve its unique and wild character. The beach features clear, fine sand stretching between 10 and 120 meters in width. The namesake lagoon, formed by rivers flowing from the hills of Matadeiro, adds to the area's ecological diversity and provides a unique bathing spot with warmer, calmer waters. Adventurous visitors can explore two main hiking trails leading to the beach. The shorter, steeper trail from Pântano do Sul (2.1 km) offers a quicker route, while the longer trail from Praia do Matadeiro (4.5 km) provides stunning coastal views. A challenging but rewarding climb to Morro da Coroa (Crown Hill) at the beach's edge unveils panoramic vistas of the coastline, lagoon, and surrounding landscape. Lagoinha do Leste remains largely untouched by tourism, maintaining its serene atmosphere. While a few kiosks offer refreshments, the beach is free of extensive infrastructure, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature. The area was classified as a permanent preservation area in 1992, ensuring the protection of its unique ecosystem. Whether you seek a challenging hike, a tranquil swim, or simply a connection with nature, Lagoinha do Leste Beach offers an unforgettable escape on the magical island of Florianópolis.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep, muddy, and uneven.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited options for purchasing them on the beach.
- Consider taking a boat back to avoid hiking the trails again, especially after a long day.
- Apply sunscreen and mosquito repellent, as the beach offers little shade and the trails pass through forests.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as the trails can be dangerous in wet conditions.
A brief summary to Lagoinha do Leste Beach
- State of Santa Catarina, BR
Getting There
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Walking
From Pântano do Sul, follow Rua Manoel Pedro Oliveira. The trailhead, marked by a sign, is approximately 100 meters from the main road. The 2.1 km trail ascends steeply before descending to Lagoinha do Leste Beach. Parking near the trailhead costs R$20 for cars.
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Boat
During the summer season, boats depart from Pântano do Sul to Lagoinha do Leste. One-way tickets cost R$50, and round-trip tickets are R$80. The boat ride takes approximately 30 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Lagoa da Conceicao, take bus 841 or 843 to Terminal Integracao Do Rio Tavares, then transfer to bus 564 or 560 to Pântano do Sul. From the bus stop in Pântano do Sul, walk to Rua Manoel Pedro Oliveira to access the trailhead. Bus fare is approximately R$4.40 per person.
