Mole Beach, Florianopolis Travel Guide

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Experience the thrill of surfing, paragliding, and vibrant beach parties at Florianópolis's trendy Mole Beach, a haven for the young and adventurous.

Mole Beach, or Praia Mole, is a vibrant and popular beach on the eastern coast of Florianópolis, Brazil, known for its soft sand, surfing waves, lively beach bars, and a young, energetic atmosphere. It's a hub for thrill-seekers, sunbathers, and partygoers alike.

A brief summary to Mole Beach

State of Santa Catarina, BR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mole Beach.

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as traffic can be heavy and parking limited.
Be aware of strong currents; this beach is not recommended for families with small children.
Check out the viewpoint at the top of one of the hills for panoramic views of the beach and region.
Visit the north end of the beach to find the LGBT-friendly area.
Consider walking the trail to neighboring Galheta Beach, a clothing-optional beach, for a different experience.

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Explore Mole Beach on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Mole Beach, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From the center of Florianópolis, take bus line 360 or 320 towards Lagoa da Conceição. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs around R$5.50. From Lagoa da Conceição, you can walk or take a short taxi/ride-share to Mole Beach. Note that bus routes can take between 30 minutes and 2 hours.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Florianópolis. A taxi from the city center to Mole Beach typically takes around 21 minutes and costs between R$60-R$75. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends.
Driving

If driving from the city center, follow Highway SC406. The drive is approximately 15 kilometers and takes about 21 minutes. Paid parking is available near the beach, but it can get crowded during peak season. Free street parking may also be available. Expect to pay around R$10-R$15 for parking.

Discover more about Mole Beach

Praia Mole, meaning 'soft beach' in Portuguese, is a 960-meter stretch of coastline that has earned its name from the uniquely soft and yielding texture of its sand. Situated on the eastern coast of Santa Catarina Island, Florianópolis, this beach is a magnet for surfers, paragliders, and those seeking a lively social scene.The beach's open exposure to the ocean creates strong, consistent waves, making it a prime surfing destination. Numerous surf tournaments have been held here, and both beginners and experienced surfers can find something to enjoy. When the waves are smaller, they are ideal for intermediate surfers. However, when the waves exceed 4ft, the spot can become a menacing closeout.Beyond surfing, Praia Mole is known for its active social scene. Beach bars line the shore, hosting DJs and parties that often start in the afternoon and continue late into the night. The beach also has a reputation for attracting a young and trendy crowd, including a significant LGBT community, with the northern end of the beach being a popular meeting point.For those seeking activities beyond the beach, paragliding is a popular option, with enthusiasts launching from the hills surrounding the beach. Hiking trails also offer panoramic views of the coastline and the nearby Lagoa da Conceição. While the strong currents make it less suitable for families with young children, lifeguards are on duty.Praia Mole offers a combination of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and a vibrant social scene, making it a must-visit destination in Florianópolis.