Florianópolis

The most popular diving area near Florianópolis, Brazil, is the Arvoredo Marine Biological Reserve. Specifically, sites like Baía do Farol are highly frequented. The reserve's protected status means marine life is abundant, with large schools of fish, sea turtles, and varied invertebrates. Its relatively clear waters and vibrant ecosystem make it the premier choice for divers visiting the region.

The Arvoredo Reserve is the main, well-known diving area. For a different experience, some local operators offer dives around Xavier Island (Ilha do Xavier), which is closer to the coast. This site can be a good alternative when conditions at Arvoredo are unfavorable. It is less frequented but still offers encounters with typical South Atlantic marine life, including groupers, rays, and moray eels.

Water temperatures in Florianópolis, Brazil, are seasonal. In the summer (December-March), expect temperatures from 24-26°C (75-79°F). During the winter (June-September), the water cools down significantly to 16-19°C (61-66°F). The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn see temperatures fluctuating between these ranges. These cooler southern waters support a unique mix of marine life.

The best time for diving in Florianópolis, Brazil, is during the summer, from December to March. This period offers the warmest water, best weather, and generally better visibility. However, for a unique topside experience, consider visiting from July to November to witness the Southern Right Whales that frequent the coast for breeding. Diving is possible year-round, but winter requires thicker wetsuits.

Underwater visibility in Florianópolis, Brazil, is variable. During the prime summer season (December-March), you can expect visibility to range from 10 to 20 meters (33-66 feet) at offshore sites like the Arvoredo Reserve. In winter or after heavy rains, visibility can be lower, sometimes dropping to 5-10 meters (16-33 feet), especially at coastal sites.

The most significant seasonal event in Florianópolis, Brazil, is the migration of Southern Right Whales from July to November. They use the shallow bays as a nursery. While you won't be diving with them, whale watching tours are a major attraction. Underwater, summer months bring warmer currents and a greater abundance of tropical fish species to the local reefs.

Divers in Florianópolis, Brazil, can see a diverse range of South Atlantic marine life. Common sightings include large groupers, loggerhead and green sea turtles, moray eels, octopus, and large schools of fish. Rays, including stingrays and eagle rays, are also present. The rocky reefs are covered with colorful sponges, anemones, and soft corals, hosting numerous smaller critters.

In summer (December-March), with water temperatures of 24-26°C, a 3mm or 5mm full wetsuit is typically sufficient. For the colder winter months (June-September), when water temperatures drop to 16-19°C, a 7mm full wetsuit, possibly with a hood and gloves, is strongly recommended for diving in Florianópolis, Brazil.

The main gateway is Florianópolis-Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN), with flights from major Brazilian cities. From the airport, rent a car or use ride-sharing apps to reach your accommodation. Dive operators are typically located in the northern part of the island, such as Canasvieiras, from where boat trips to the dive sites depart.

All diving in Florianópolis, Brazil, is shore-based; no liveaboards operate here. You will stay in a hotel or guesthouse on the island and take day trips with local dive operators. The primary dive sites, like the Arvoredo Reserve, are reached via a 1-2 hour boat ride. This allows you to enjoy both diving and the island's many other attractions.