Brazil is blessed with one of the most fascinating cultures in the world. The only Portuguese speaking country in South America , Brazilians have managed to blend elements of many diverse cultures into one incredible mix that is unique in its uninhibited flair and passionate way of life.
For centuries Brazil has symbolized a bold escape into a primordial, tropical paradise, igniting the Western imagination like no other South American country. From the intense passion of Carnaval to the immensity of the Amazon jungle, it is a country of mythic proportions and staggering natural beauty, with stretches of unexplored rainforest, islands with pristine tropical beaches, dramatic coastlines and endless rivers. And of course there are the people themselves, who delight visitors with their charm, sensuality and vitality, of which Carnaval, samba, Capoeira and the omnipresent beach and party cultures are just a few of the many wonderful byproducts.
Brazilians are known for their fun-loving, relaxed and generous nature and are truly an incredible people. It is completely normal to chat with a Brazilian on the beach or at the supermarket and next thing you know, you are invited over for caipirinhas (a distinctive local drink) and to meet family or friends in their home. The phrase "no stress" will take on an entirely new meaning for you after spending a week here in Brazil , where the culture is focused more on enjoying life than climbing the corporate ladder.
Where else in the world could you imagine a week-long nationwide celebration of the intensity of Brazilian Carnaval? Brazilian culture is synonymous with a love for music, parties, dance, food, festivals, sports and, last but certainly not least, the beach. It is not possible to overstate how much Brazilians love the beach. When the sun comes out, Brazilians go there to enjoy nature, exercise, play sports, socializeor just hang out. The vibe and atmosphere on a popular Brazilian beach cannot be described in words and must be experienced, as it has an energy and vibe all its own. And in case you forgot, the "Brazilian Bikini" was invented here and continues to flourish!
Another thing Brazilians are known for is their love of sports. Florianopolis in particular is one of the most active and adventure-sport crazy cities in the world. During a casual trip across the island you are sure to see tons of people jogging, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, playing soccer or going to the gym. In addition to hosting WCT pro surf tour events, Florianopolis also hosts a wide array of other tournaments ranging from Iron Man competitions and marathons to sailing regattas and Davis Cup tennis matches (the famous Brazilian tennis player and three time French Open Champion Gustavo "Guga" Kuerten is from and still lives in Florianopolis).
Brazil is equal in size to the continental United States (not including Alaska and Hawaii ) and has as many subtle variations in the population as you'd expect from a distance spanning roughly from that of California to South Florida . Florianopolis , the capital of the state of Santa Catarina, is located in the south of Brazil and has some very unique cultural aspects due to the influences of early German and Italian settlers in the region. While unquestionably Brazilian, Florianopolis has some strong European accents as well, something that is reflected in the greater organization, cleanliness and safety of the city as compared with some other parts of Brazil . This blend has also had a strong influence on the appearance of the people, who are known as some of the most beautiful and exotic looking anywhere in the world.
Nexus Surf Brazil : Beaches
Florianopolis , Brazil is blessed with some of the most breathtaking beaches anywhere in the world. Forty-two of them, to be exact, with one more beautiful than the next and all of them here waiting for you to enjoy.
Below is a map containing additional information on some of Florianopolis ' most popular beaches.
The beaches of Florianopolis offer everything from secluded and paradise-like getaways that make the Caribbean pale in comparison to nature preserves with long stretches of untouched and undeveloped coastline, upscale beaches with ritzy beachfront estates to rival Ocean Drive in Miami and fun filled beaches packed with young and beautiful people (including the likes of our very own Nexus Divas).
While the waters on the west side of the island are calm and protected and thus great for families and swimming, the entire east coast of the island is blessed with a constant flow of powerful Atlantic Ocean swells, making for some of the most amazing and consistent year round surfing you'll find anywhere. Due to the island's unique topography and gradually evolving degree of exposure to the ocean there are likely incredible waves somewhere in Florianopolis at virtually any given time, the location varying based on swell direction and wind conditions. Nexus Surf is based within walking distance of two of the best surfing beaches you will find anywhere (Praia Mole and Galheta), and a short ride in our Nexus Surf shuttle (less than 5 minutes) from 3 more world-class surfing beaches - one for beginners (Barra da Lagoa), one that holds international lsurfing competitions (Joaquina), and another with over 4 miles of wide open beachfront and isolated peaks (Moçambique).
As if that were not enough, our Nexus Surf Guides are available on a daily basis to take you directly to the best swells the island has to offer that particular day at other world-class surf spots such as Santinho, Praia Brava, Morro das Pedras and =atadeiro. With your choice of amazing surf within steps of your accommodations or our guided excursions to the very best surf of the day on the island, you are guaranteed to maximize and personalize your surf experience here in Brazil .
In addition to the incredible beaches in Florianopolis, there are countless more within an hour or so drive along the coast of the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina, all well within the scope of Nexus' surf excursions. These include world famous surf spots such as Praia da Silveira, Praia Rosa, Imbituba (Garopaba), where the finals of Florianopolis' 2006 WCT event were held, and Guarda do Embaú, known for its powerful left point break and breathtaking natural beauty. With Nexus' Brazil Surf Experience™ you will have guided access to all of these legendary surf spots when conditions at each are at their best. And as always with Nexus, you will travel incomplete comfort, style, convenience and safety.
Nexus Surf Brazil : Nature
While Florianopolis , Brazil is best known for its incredible beaches, world-class surfing and vibrant nightlife, the island is also blessed with natural beauty which words alone cannot describe. Its tremendously varied topography includes stunning coastline, powerful waterfalls, expansive sand dunes, large lagoons, deep and winding forests, guarded coves and natural tide pools.
Nexus accommodations are situated directly across from the amazingly beautiful Praia Mole beach, which features top-notch waves and an electric social scene during the Brazilian summer season. Just steps away from Praia Mole lies the untouched nature preserve of Praia Galheta, also an incredible surf and hiking spot, flush with natural tide pools. Behind you are lush green mountains that encircle the world famous Lagoa da Conceição Lagoon(also within walking distance from your accommodations via private access trail) and create an unforgettable spectacle of natural beauty.
Your accommodations are conveniently located in the center of the eastern side of the island (see map), serving as an excellent launching point for excursions both to the north and the south of the island. Within minutes you can access many of the other truly special parts of Florianopolis by car. The island offers many great spots for snorkeling and diving where you can marvel at the spectacular marine life of Brazil 's Southern coast. Your stay also affords the opportunity to see many of the species of birds and flora unique to this region of Brazil as well as soft white sand dunes that not only make for a stunning visual, but also are incredibly popular for sandboarding. And just a short drive off the island await beautiful rivers that are perfect for day long white water rafting trips. Simply put, if you're a nature lover, you will love Florianopolis . All this and more is at your fingertips with Nexus.
