Praia Naufragados
Address:
Parque Estatual da Serra do Tabuleiro
Florianopolis, Brazil
NileGuide Expert tip:
Be prepared to hike to get here, but also bring a camera if you have the least interest in natural wonders
Description:
Florianopolis and the Island of Santa Catarina are famous in Brazil as areas of colonization by Azorean immigrants in the 18th century, and indeed, their ancestors and legacy remain today. Praia Naufragados (literally, "Castaway Beach") played a crucial part in the early colonization of the island. In short, immigrants sent from the Azores by the Portuguese court were shipwrecked on this southernmost beach. Many were killed, but some found refuge here and decided to stay. Today, you can visit the beach only by a small walking trail going straight through some of Floripa's most stunning natural reserves. You'll come out on a dramatic point, providing stunning vistas of the beach itself, as well as the historic lighthouse that's worth a visit.
Map:
