The Lagoinha do Leste trail takes you through the Atlantic Forest to one of the most remote beaches in the south of Florianópolis. With no road leading to the beach, getting there is already part of the experience.
There are two main hiking routes, from Pântano do Sul and Matadeiro. We guide the trail from Pântano do Sul, including Morro da Coroa, and that’s the route we’ll use throughout this guide to share what we know from hiking in this part of the island.
If you’re planning to go, you’ll want to know how difficult the trail is, how long it takes, what to bring and what to expect from Morro da Coroa before you start.
We’ll walk you through all of that, along with practical information about weather, safety, getting there and returning by boat, so you can decide how you want to experience Lagoinha do Leste.
Lagoinha do Leste trail in 30 seconds
- Where: South of Florianópolis, with access from Pântano do Sul or Matadeiro.
- Our route: Pântano do Sul, Morro da Coroa and Lagoinha do Leste Beach.
- Difficulty: Challenging, with steep and uneven sections.
- Our guided hike: Around 6 hours and approximately 6 km.
- Good to know: Bring your own water and food. A boat return may be available depending on sea conditions.
What is the Lagoinha do Leste trail?
The Lagoinha do Leste trail is a hiking route in the south of Florianópolis, inside the Lagoinha do Leste Municipal Natural Park. It leads to one of the island’s more remote beaches, surrounded by Atlantic Forest, with a lagoon and viewpoints along the surrounding hills.
There is no road to Lagoinha do Leste. You can reach the beach by hiking or by boat, while the two main trails start from Pântano do Sul and Matadeiro.
The best part about this hike is that Lagoinha do Leste is not only about reaching the beach. The trail is part of the experience, especially when you start paying attention to the surrounding environment.
Along the way, we also pay attention to the Atlantic Forest, local plants, birds and other wildlife we may encounter.
Lagoinha do Leste trail at a glance
If you’re planning to hike the Lagoinha do Leste trail, these are the main things we think you should know before choosing your route.
One important detail is that distance, hiking time and difficulty vary depending on the trail you take. So, whenever we mention our guided experience below, we’re referring specifically to the route we follow from Pântano do Sul, including Morro da Coroa.
| Lagoinha do Leste Trail | |
| Location | South of Florianópolis |
| Main trail access points | Pântano do Sul and Matadeiro |
| Difficulty | Varies depending on the route |
| Beach access | Hiking or boat |
| Morro da Coroa | Optional, depending on your route |
| Infrastructure | Limited |
| Best for | Hiking, nature, photography and viewpoints |
| Our guided route | Pântano do Sul, Morro da Coroa and Lagoinha do Leste |
| Guided hike difficulty | Challenging |
| Guided hike distance | Approximately 6 km |
| Guided experience duration | Around 6 hours |
| Minimum age for our tour | 12 years old |
| Tour languages | English, Portuguese, French and Spanish |
Which Lagoinha do Leste trail do we recommend?
There are two main trails to Lagoinha do Leste, from Pântano do Sul and Matadeiro. For our guided experience, we start from Pântano do Sul and include Morro da Coroa before heading down to the beach.
This is the route we recommend because it allows us to experience much more than simply reaching Lagoinha do Leste.
On our route, you can expect:
- hiking through the Atlantic Forest;
- environmental interpretation along the trail;
- opportunities to observe local plants and wildlife;
- the climb to Morro da Coroa;
- time to enjoy the viewpoint;
- a photography session;
- the descent to Lagoinha do Leste Beach;
- time by the beach and lagoon.
The other main access starts from Matadeiro and follows a longer route along the coast. It can be an option if your priority is spending more time hiking, but it is not the route we use on our guided experience.
This route gives you a more complete experience of Lagoinha do Leste, which is why we use it on our guided hike.
How difficult is the Lagoinha do Leste trail?
For our route from Pântano do Sul, including Morro da Coroa, we consider the Lagoinha do Leste trail challenging. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker, but you do need good physical condition and to feel comfortable with steep and uneven terrain.
The challenge is not just the distance. Our guided route covers approximately 6 km over about 6 hours, with climbs, descents and time at Morro da Coroa and Lagoinha do Leste Beach.
On the trail, you should be prepared for:
- steep uphill and downhill sections;
- uneven natural terrain;
- a physically demanding climb to Morro da Coroa;
- changing trail conditions depending on the weather.
Rain can also change the experience. Natural surfaces can become more difficult to walk on, so we always consider the conditions of the trail, not just the distance on paper.
Do you need hiking experience for Lagoinha do Leste?
You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to join us, but you should be in good physical condition.
That’s an important distinction. You don’t need a long list of trails behind you, but you should feel comfortable with sustained physical effort, climbs, descents and uneven terrain.
If you’re unsure whether the hike matches your fitness level, talk to us before booking. We’d rather help you understand what to expect before you get on the trail.
How long does the Lagoinha do Leste trail take?
For our Lagoinha do Leste trail from Pântano do Sul, we plan around 6 hours. That includes the hike itself, our stops along the way and time to enjoy Lagoinha do Leste.
Those 6 hours aren’t spent walking nonstop. We like to leave enough time for you to experience what we find along the way, rather than treating the hike as something we simply need to finish.
Here’s how part of our day usually looks:
- around 2 hours hiking toward Morro da Coroa;
- time at the viewpoint for a break and photography;
- descent to Lagoinha do Leste Beach;
- time to enjoy the beach and lagoon;
- around 1 hour and 30 minutes hiking back to our starting point.
The exact timing can change a little depending on our pace, stops and trail conditions that day.
Is Morro da Coroa part of the Lagoinha do Leste trail?
You don’t need to climb Morro da Coroa to reach Lagoinha do Leste Beach. But we include it in our guided route from Pântano do Sul before descending to the beach.
We chose to include Morro da Coroa because it adds another perspective to the experience. From the viewpoint, you can see Lagoinha do Leste Beach, the lagoon, the Atlantic Forest and the coastline from above.
How difficult is the Morro da Coroa hike?
Morro da Coroa is one of the most physically demanding parts of our route, with steep and uneven natural terrain.
That’s one of the reasons we classify our guided hike as challenging, and we take the trail conditions and everyone’s pace into account along the way.
Is Morro da Coroa worth it?
For our Lagoinha do Leste route, we think it is. And that’s exactly why we include it in the experience.
From Morro da Coroa, you can understand how the beach, lagoon, forest and ocean are connected in the landscape you’ve just been hiking through.
We also stop there for a photography session, so you have time to enjoy the viewpoint, rest and take your photos before we continue toward Lagoinha do Leste Beach.
What should you bring for the Lagoinha do Leste trail?
For the Lagoinha do Leste trail, we recommend bringing enough water and food for several hours outdoors, comfortable hiking clothes and shoes with good grip.
Here’s what you need to pack:
- water, enough for the entire hike;
- food and snacks;
- hiking shoes with good grip;
- lightweight, comfortable clothing;
- sunscreen;
- a hat or cap;
- insect repellent;
- a swimsuit if you want to enjoy the beach;
- a small backpack to carry everything comfortably;
- rain protection when the forecast calls for it.
One thing you shouldn’t leave to chance is water and food. They are not included in our guided experience, so each guest needs to bring their own.
And because we’re spending several hours in a natural area, we recommend arriving prepared rather than expecting to buy something along the trail.
We bring a first aid kit, and photographs from the experience are also included, so you don’t need to worry about carrying extra photography equipment just to have good photos of your day.
What is the best time to hike Lagoinha do Leste?
For the Lagoinha do Leste trail, we pay more attention to the conditions of the day than to a specific season. Temperature, rain, wind and trail conditions can all change how demanding the hike feels.
We prefer to start early in the day, so we have enough time for Morro da Coroa, the beach and the lagoon without having to rush.
Before hiking, always consider:
- temperature, especially on hotter days;
- recent and expected rain;
- trail conditions;
- wind and visibility;
- sea conditions, particularly if you’re considering returning by boat.
Remember that the optional boat ride depends on natural conditions, so would never plan the day assuming it will definitely be available.
Can you hike Lagoinha do Leste when it rains?
Rain can make the Lagoinha do Leste trail more difficult, especially on steep and uneven sections.
Wet terrain can affect your grip, while heavier rain can also change visibility and overall trail conditions.
That’s why it’s preferable to evaluate the conditions of the day instead of using a simple yes or no rule. On a challenging hike like ours, the weather is part of deciding how we approach the trail safely.
Is the Lagoinha do Leste trail safe?
The Lagoinha do Leste trail can be hiked safely with proper preparation, but it is a natural trail with steep and uneven sections, and those conditions should be underestimated.
For our route through Morro da Coroa, we recommend paying attention to:
- your physical condition before starting;
- weather and trail conditions that day;
- proper shoes with good grip;
- enough water and food for the entire experience;
- starting with enough daylight for your plans;
- knowing the route you intend to follow.
On our guided hike, we also carry a first aid kit and evaluate the conditions along the way.
Can I hike Lagoinha do Leste alone?
You can hike Lagoinha do Leste independently. Whether we would recommend it for you depends on your hiking experience, confidence on natural terrain and familiarity with the route.
That means, a guide becomes especially useful when you don’t know the area or prefer having someone help with navigation, trail conditions and planning.
Is the Lagoinha do Leste trail suitable for children?
Children can hike Lagoinha do Leste, but whether the trail is suitable depends on the route, the child’s physical condition and their experience with hiking. For our guided experience, the minimum age is 12 years old.
Age isn’t the only thing to be considered. Since our experience is challenging over several hours, physical preparation also matters.
For teenagers joining us, consider whether they are comfortable with:
- several hours of outdoor activity;
- steep climbs and descents;
- uneven natural terrain;
- sustained physical effort;
- hiking approximately 6 km.
If you’re traveling with a child or teenager and aren’t sure whether our experience is appropriate, talk to us before booking. Tell us a little about their age and hiking experience, and we can help you understand what the day involves before you make that decision.
Who should avoid the Lagoinha do Leste trail?
Our Lagoinha do Leste guided hike is a challenging experience, so it isn’t suitable for everyone. It’s important to be clear about that before you book, especially because the trail involves several hours of physical activity on natural terrain.
Our experience is not recommended for:
- pregnant travelers;
- people with back problems;
- people with heart conditions;
- anyone who isn’t in adequate physical condition for a challenging hike.
These recommendations apply to our guided experience. Different ways of visiting Lagoinha do Leste can involve different levels of physical effort, including reaching the beach by boat.
If you have a health condition or aren’t sure whether you’re physically prepared for the hike, talk to us before booking so we can explain exactly what the experience involves. If your concern is medical, it’s best to check with a healthcare professional who knows your individual situation.
Where does the Lagoinha do Leste trail start?
Our Lagoinha do Leste guided hike starts and finishes in Pântano do Sul, a traditional fishing neighborhood in the south of Florianópolis.
We meet at Bar do Arante, which makes it easy to have a clear reference point before we start the experience.
How do you get to Pântano do Sul?
You can reach Pântano do Sul by car, Uber, taxi or public transportation.
We recommend checking your travel time before leaving, especially if you’re staying in another part of Florianópolis. Traffic can affect how long it takes to reach the south of the island.
Where do you meet my guide?
Our meeting point is:
- Bar do Arante: 254 R. Abelardo Otacílio Gomes – Pântano do Sul, Florianópolis, SC
This is where we meet before the hike and where we finish the experience.
Pântano do Sul is also known for its fishing tradition and local restaurants. At the end of the tour, we’re happy to show you some of our favorite places nearby if you want to stay for a meal.
Can you return from Lagoinha do Leste by boat?
You can return from Lagoinha do Leste to Pântano do Sul by boat when natural conditions allow. But we don’t recommend planning your hike assuming that the boat will always be available.
The service is operated by the local fishermen association, not by The Best of Florianópolis. Whether the boats can operate depends on the conditions that day, especially the sea.
If you’re considering returning by boat, keep in mind that:
- availability isn’t guaranteed;
- the service depends on sea and natural conditions;
- the price can vary;
- the boat ride isn’t included in our guided experience.
When conditions don’t allow the boats to operate, you should be prepared to hike back to Pântano do Sul.
That’s why we see the boat as an optional part of the day, not something you should rely on when planning your Lagoinha do Leste hike.
Are there bathrooms, restaurants or shops at Lagoinha do Leste?
Lagoinha do Leste has very limited infrastructure, so we recommend arriving prepared rather than expecting the facilities you would find at an urban beach in Florianópolis.
For our guided hike, water, food and snacks are not included, and each guest needs to bring their own. We recommend carrying everything you’ll need for the time we spend on the trail and at the beach.
Don’t rely on being able to buy food, drinks or other essentials once you’re at Lagoinha do Leste. The good news is that we start and finish in Pântano do Sul, a traditional fishing neighborhood known for its local restaurants.
At the end of the experience, we’ll be happy to recommend some of our favorite places to eat nearby. After several hours on the trail, it’s also a nice way to finish the day in this part of Florianópolis.
Is it worth taking a guided Lagoinha do Leste hike?
You don’t need a guide to hike Lagoinha do Leste, but hiking with a local guide changes what you can learn and notice along the way.
A guided hike isn’t only about showing you where to go. It’s also about helping you understand the place you’re walking through.
During our experience, we can help you with:
- orientation and understanding the trail conditions;
- learning about the Atlantic Forest ecosystem;
- identifying local plants, birds and other wildlife we may encounter;
- understanding more about Lagoinha do Leste and its local context;
- enjoying Morro da Coroa without treating it as just another stop;
- having photographs of your experience included;
- practical support throughout a challenging hike.
Our guides can also lead the experience in English, Portuguese, French or Spanish, which makes it easier to ask questions and understand what you’re seeing.
So, would we say everyone needs a guide? No.
But if you want your Lagoinha do Leste hike to be about more than following a trail to the beach, that’s where we think a local guide adds real value.
What is the Best of Florianópolis Lagoinha do Leste guided hike like?
Our Lagoinha do Leste guided hike is a 6 hour experience combining hiking, environmental interpretation, wildlife observation, photography and time at the beach and lagoon.
But we don’t want you to simply walk from one point to another. Along the way, we’ll help you understand more about the Atlantic Forest and the natural environment you’re exploring.
Here’s what our day together usually looks like:
- Meet in Pântano do Sul, at Bar do Arante.
- Learn about the local flora and fauna before we start hiking.
- Hike toward Morro da Coroa while looking for birds, plants and other wildlife.
- Reach Morro da Coroa and take time to enjoy the viewpoint.
- Stop for a photography session.
- Descend toward Lagoinha do Leste Beach.
- Spend time enjoying the beach and lagoon.
- Hike back toward Pântano do Sul, with more opportunities to learn about the Atlantic Forest.
- Finish where we started, in Pântano do Sul.
- Get our local restaurant recommendations if you want to stay in the neighborhood for a meal.
For us, the idea is to experience Lagoinha do Leste as a whole, not just reach the beach and turn around.
What is included in the Lagoinha do Leste Hiking and Photography Adventure?
Our Lagoinha do Leste Hiking and Photography Adventure includes the guided hiking experience, photographs and a first aid kit. Food, drinks and the optional boat ride are not included.
It is important to make this clear before you book so you know exactly what we provide and what you need to bring yourself.
What is included?
- Guided hiking experience
- Photographs taken during the experience
- First aid kit
What is not included?
- Water
- Food
- Snacks
- Optional boat ride
Please bring enough water, food and snacks for the entire experience.
Who will guide the Lagoinha do Leste hike?
Your Lagoinha do Leste hike will be led by one of The Best of Florianópolis’ local guides. We have different professional backgrounds, but we share the same goal: helping you experience Florianópolis with more context and a closer connection to the island.
The Best of Florianópolis was founded by Isaac Ribeiro, a historian, English teacher and tour guide. After living abroad, he brought the walking tour experience to Florianópolis, combining history and storytelling to introduce the city to visitors. He also leads hiking and bike tours around the island.
Our team also includes guides such as Warlise, a journalist and tour guide in training with a special connection to Morro da Coroa, and Edilson, a tour guide whose work combines nature, history and outdoor experiences.
The guide leading your hike may vary depending on the day.
What you can expect is someone from our team who knows Florianópolis and can add context to what you’re seeing, from the trail itself to the natural environment and the places we visit along the way.
How to book the Lagoinha do Leste guided hike?
You can book our Lagoinha do Leste Hiking and Photography Adventure directly with The Best of Florianópolis. Before choosing your date, here’s a quick overview of the experience:
| Tour details | Lagoinha do Leste Hiking and Photography Adventure |
| Duration | 6 hours |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Distance | Approximately 6 km |
| Minimum age | 12 years old |
| Languages | English, Portuguese, French and Spanish |
| Meeting point | Bar do Arante, Pântano do Sul |
| Booking cutoff | 12 hours before the experience |
When you open our booking calendar, you can check current availability and the price for your date before confirming your reservation.
We recommend booking in advance if you already know when you want to hike, especially if Lagoinha do Leste is an important part of your Florianópolis itinerary.
You’ll also see the current cancellation conditions during the booking process, so you can review them before payment.
Is the Lagoinha do Leste trail worth it?
Yes, the Lagoinha do Leste trail is worth it, especially if you enjoy places where the journey matters as much as the destination.
What we like about taking people there is that the experience changes as we walk. We move through the Atlantic Forest, observe what is around us, reach different viewpoints and, eventually, arrive at Lagoinha do Leste.
And that’s what we hope you take from this hike. Not only photos of the beach, but a better understanding of this part of Florianópolis and the nature that surrounds it.
If you’d rather experience Lagoinha do Leste with someone who knows the trail, its nature and its stories, you can join us on our guided hike.
Frequently asked questions about the Lagoinha do Leste trail
How hard is the Lagoinha do Leste trail?
The difficulty depends on the route. Our guided hike from Pântano do Sul, including Morro da Coroa, is challenging, with steep and uneven terrain, so good physical fitness is important. Check our Lagoinha do Leste guided hike.
How long does it take to hike Lagoinha do Leste?
Our route from Pântano do Sul takes around 6 hours and covers approximately 6 km, including stops, Morro da Coroa and time at Lagoinha do Leste. See the experience with The Best of Florianópolis.
Can you hike Lagoinha do Leste without a guide?
Yes. You can hike Lagoinha do Leste independently, but a local guide can help with orientation, trail conditions and understanding the Atlantic Forest and local environment. Explore our guided hike.
Can you return from Lagoinha do Leste by boat?
Yes, when sea and natural conditions allow. Boats to Pântano do Sul are operated by the local fishermen association, availability isn’t guaranteed, and the ride isn’t included in our tour. Plan your Lagoinha do Leste experience with us.
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