A land of contrasts, where the bustle of modern life coexists with the serenity of communities of the interior. This is Santa Catarina Island, a delicious slice of paradise with 523 Km2 of green hills, lagoons and 42 beaches. The state capital of Florianópolis is on the island, inhabited by 280,000 privileged people. It is one of the principal tourist destinations in Brazil and a residential option for those who seek a good quality of life.

The Azorean spirit, inherited from immigrants who settled the region 250 years ago, marks the island personality. The fishing boats, the lacemakers, the folklore, the cuisine and the colonial architecture distinguish the tourism and attract resources that compensate for the lack of large industry. Villages immersed in tradition and history, such as Santo Antonio de Lisboa and Ribeirão da Ilha resist the advances of modernity.

The beaches of the north have calm waters and good tourist facilities. Jurerê, Canasvieiras and Ingleses are the most sought after, principally by Argentines. On the east, is Conceição Lagoon and the beaches of Joaquina, Mole and Barra da Lagoa, centers for young people and radical sports. The south is more rural, and beaches such as Armação and Pântano do Sul are attractive for their peacefulness, colorful boats and fishing nets.

On the continent there are some neighborhoods of the capital city and the municipalities of Greater Florianópolis: São José and Palhoça to the south, Biguaçu and Governador Celso Ramos to the north. In addition to small industry these locations have enchantments such as Anhatomirim Island, with its imposing fort and the beach of Guarda do Embaú.