Praia da Armação

Praia da Armação is a sandy beach break on Florianópolis's southeastern coast that produces both left and right waves over a sand bottom. The break is reasonably exposed with quite reliable surf, particularly during autumn and winter when groundswells predominate. Northeast swell combined with southwest wind (offshore) delivers the best conditions. The beach features multiple peaks especially from the middle section northward, where the waves are more developed and powerful; the southern end near the river mouth stays calmer. Rips and rocks are hazards, and the coarse sand and steep gradient make the beach difficult to walk.

The beach's name derives from its history as a major whaling station in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries—Armação do Baleia. It remains one of Santa Catarina's principal artisanal fishing communities, though modern recreational activities now coexist alongside traditional fishing operations.

Located roughly 22 kilometers south of downtown Florianópolis, this 3.2-kilometer beach is well-developed with rental accommodations, restaurants, supermarkets, and shops. Praia do Matadeiro, another established surf destination, sits immediately adjacent to the south. Access and infrastructure are straightforward.