This private half-day excursion offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and local history — perfect for those seeking a peaceful walk enriched with historical content and unforgettable views. The 4 km circular trail on the northwestern tip of Santa Catarina Island links Praia do Forte to Praia da Daniela and is ideal for travellers interested in exploring Florianópolis from a more authentic and lesser-known perspective.
The trail winds through stretches of Atlantic Forest, with natural viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the beaches of Jurerê and Daniela, the Pontal da Daniela, and the more distant Ratones and Anhatomirim Islands at the entrance to the North Bay. The vivid contrast between lush greenery and the deep blue sea makes this walk particularly scenic. As well as offering striking landscapes, the trail follows in the footsteps of those who once defended the island. Along the way, there is the chance to glimpse the locations of the three coastal fortresses that once formed the colonial defence triangle, built to protect the island from maritime threats.
The excursion concludes with a visit to the impressive Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa, whose construction began in 1740. With its preserved stone walls, original cannons and evocative ruins, the fortress provides insight into the strategic importance of Florianópolis in Brazil’s colonial past. The Caminho da Santa Cruz is a rewarding combination of nature, history and spectacular views — a gentle yet enriching trail that reveals the island’s heritage from a unique and memorable vantage point.
In the afternoon, the tour continues to the historic neighbourhood of Santo Antônio de Lisboa, one of the oldest and most charming in Florianópolis. Overlooking the North Bay, it is also an excellent spot to stop for lunch, with traditional restaurants serving fresh seafood and regional dishes. Later, it is an idyllic setting to watch the sun set in a blaze of colour while enjoying fresh, locally produced oysters — a memorable end to a richly varied day.