Forte BeachBrazil Beach Guide

From Florianópolis city centre, drive north for roughly 40 minutes — the beach sits near Ponta Grossa on the island's north coast. A ferry service operated by Cooperbarco also connects the area for those who prefer arriving by water. Free parking is available near the fort, but spaces are limited; arrive early in summer or you'll be circling. There is no entry fee to the beach itself, though fort access follows its own schedule — check IPHAN for current opening hours before you go.

The Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa, just 100 metres from the waterline, is the obvious anchor — one of three Portuguese colonial fortresses built to defend the island, and among the best-preserved. Note that fort access involves steps and uneven terrain, so it's worth factoring in for anyone with mobility considerations. A short 2 kilometres away, Praia da Daniela offers calm northwest-facing water ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, with a mangrove fringe worth exploring. Further along the north coast, Praia de Canasvieiras — about 15 kilometres out — is a large, relaxed family beach popular with Argentine visitors and good for a half-day extension.

The closest dining options are a short drive from the beach. Olivia Cucina, about 1.9 kilometres away, and Doremi at 2.1 kilometres are your nearest bets after a morning swim. Further afield, Jurere's Grill, Lucila, and Doce Magia cluster around the 3.4-kilometre mark — worth the short drive if you're staying for the afternoon.

Hotel Sete Ilhas, 3.5 kilometres from the beach, is the closest base and a practical choice for an early start at the fort. If you prefer a more intimate stay, Pousada Nossa Senhora de Fátima (7.7 km) and Pousada Recanto dos Bambus (8.4 km) offer pousada-style comfort within easy reach of the north coast. Tropicanas at 5.8 kilometres sits in the middle ground — close enough to the beach without being right on top of it.

The strongest shot on this beach is from the sand looking up at the fort's stone walls against the sky — golden hour before 9 a.m. gives you warm light and almost no other visitors in frame. For a wider composition, position yourself at the water's edge to capture the turquoise bay with the colonial ramparts rising behind it — the contrast between the calm water and the centuries-old stonework is the visual story of this place.

The fort is a protected heritage site, so climbing on the walls is strictly prohibited — admire them from the designated paths. Swim only between the flags; the bay is calm but flag boundaries exist for your safety and must be respected. When searching online or on maps, be specific: type 'Praia do Forte Ponta Grossa' or 'Praia do Forte Canasvieiras' — several Brazilian beaches share this name and you can easily end up at the wrong one. The fort is open Tuesday through Sunday, so plan accordingly if a heritage visit is part of your trip.