Florianopolis Weather in January: What to Expect

Florianópolis Weather in January

January is high summer in Floripa—and not just for tourists. Brazilian influencers and digital creators now flood the island during this month, turning beach clubs and downtown cafés into hotspots for content and culture.

Enjoying the many beaches, laying in the sun, or meeting new people while on vacation; this is one of the best months to go, no matter what you want to do. Because it’s one of Brazil’s summer months, you’ll have plenty of activities to choose from and perfect weather to enjoy them.

I do believe Floripa is a rare kind of year-round destination, but there are the best moments to go there if you’re looking for action, and January is among them.

With this article, I’ll tell you all about unique activities in town during this month. We will also talk about Florianópolis weather in January, plus every holiday and festival that comes along. For a more in-depth dive of Florianopolis, visit our Florianopolis travel guide.

Let’s fly down to discover Florianópolis, Brazil, together 🎉🇧🇷

Average Temperatures in Florianópolis in January

January in Florianópolis is peak summer weather. Although not scorching hot most of the time, it can get pretty intense, so come ready!

In my opinion, when it comes to hitting a beach, January is the best weather you’ll get.

Daytime hours always have thermometers somewhere between 29°C to 33°C (that’s 84°F to 91°F for our non-metric friends). 

Evenings always cool down to that nice coastal temperature. You can enjoy a forecast of between 19°C to 25°C (66°F to 77°F). This difference gives you a perfect layout to enjoy sunny hours on a wonderful beach and then take a walk in the evening breeze. I recommend keeping a light jacket or layer for those seaside strolls.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Is There Rain in Florianópolis in January?

When it comes to rain, Florianópolis weather in January is certainly on the wetter side. It is, in fact, the wettest month of the year. But worry not; rain showers are usually intense but brief.

As the day winds down, you can expect sudden rain showers that last for a few minutes. To avoid being unprepared, always include a small umbrella or light waterproof jacket in your bag as the day begins.

But a little rain shouldn’t get in your way! Given it’s a subtropical climate, rain showers are over almost as soon as they start. It’ll give you relief from the heat with plenty of sunshine in between.

How Much Does it Rain in January?

As we saw, January is part of Floripa’s rainy season, with an average of 157mm of rainfall happening throughout the month. According to my research, there are about 17 to 19 days with tain throughout January.

Keep in mind rain always comes in short bursts rather than drizzling all day. These showers are quite a refreshing thing. They break up intense heat to make the air cooler, letting you choose what to do in your free time.

So, yeah, there is a big amount of rain. But there is equally as much sunshine and warmth to be enjoyed.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Best Things to Do in Florianópolis When it Rains

If it does rain, that is not something to worry about. Let me tell you about some of my favorite ways to plan around it to keep enjoying this city!

Here Are the Best Things to Do in a Rainy Floripa:

Go to Local Markets: Rainy hours are perfect for visiting local markets such as the Public Market, since most of it is indoors, or Lagoa da Conceição Market. This is your moment to discover different street foods and produce or get souvenirs for people back home.

Visit Museums: Stop and check out museums! Santa Catarina Historical Museum or the Ecomuseum of Ribeirão da Ilha can be a great way to learn more about the island’s history and culture while staying dry. They generally have everything translated into English, so you’re all good on the accessibility end. 

Get Coffee: Go inside one of many cafés to try some Brazilian coffee. For me, it’s the best way to stay dry while trying some of the best coffee and pastries on the planet.

Try a Cooking Class: If you want the bragging rights of making great food with your own hands, why not go to a cooking class? Enjoy the rainy hours in a wonderful shelter and develop a new skill to show off back home.

Spa Day: Your body may just want a break, and in that case, a spa day is a great way to do that! You can either book it somewhere else or in your hotel.

Let’s keep in mind that rain showers usually don’t last, so you will always have plenty of time to catch the sun outdoors. I’d also say not to get too attached to your plans; just make the most of your trip, regardless of the weather.

Is it Hot in Florianópolis in January?

Considering January is a month in Brazilian summer, it does heat up often. Daytime has a temperature of 29°C to 33°C (84°F to 91°F), with the chance to go a little higher. But with so much water around, plus occasional rainfall, heat doesn’t get oppressive.

As for evenings, it usually cools to between 19°C and 25°C (66°F to 77°F). My advice is to keep your outfit as light as possible during the day, but don’t forget a layer for when it winds down.

Florianópolis Weather in January

How Cloudy is Florianópolis in January?

Florianópolis in January has a rather constant presence of clouds. You should have plenty of days beginning with a bright sun and late afternoons with that traditional summer rain. But remember, cloud coverage varies during the day and from day to day, so always check the forecast as you begin your adventure.

But let me help you plan: Mornings are clearer, with clouds showing up as the day progresses. Especially at the end of daylight hours, clouds show up for a quick rain shower.

Pro Tip: You often get sunshine mixed in on cloudy days. But to avoid losing a beach day, always head out as soon as you can.

How Humid is it in Florianópolis in January?

I won’t lie to you; this is a rather humid month in Floripa. Florianópolis weather in January usually has an average of 73 to 94%. It starts the day at the highest point and will decrease towards the evening.

This humidity, combined with hot temperatures, makes Florianópolis weather in January almost muggy from time to time. So, my advice is to stay hydrated and wear the lightest clothing you can to help fight it off during the day.

Florianópolis Weather in January

How Windy is it in Florianópolis in January?

Summer, and especially January, is not a windy time in Floripa. The city as a whole isn’t very windy from what I’ve experienced. The average wind speed here goes from 10 to 15 km/h (6 to 9 mph), with occasional gusts reaching up to 20 km/h (12 mph).

The occasional gusts are very refreshing because they help to lessen humidity and hotness. If you’re directly on the coast, winds tend to be stronger, which can be nice to practice some water sports during your time here.

When are Sunrise and Sunset in Florianópolis in January?

This month is for those who enjoy long summer days. Sunrises usually happen from 5:30 to 6:30 AM. In comparison, sunsets are well over twelve hours later, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM.

With this much sunshine, you will have plenty of time to explore the continental and island parts of Floripa. But please don’t forget to apply sunscreen at regular intervals during the day; UV indexes are high during the summer.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Is the Water Warm in Florianópolis in January? 

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It is a little on the cool side, but it tends to be quite warm during the summer months. It’s perfect for swimming, practicing a sport, or just taking a breather from sunbathing. 

How Warm is the Water in Florianópolis in January?

The ocean here is as warm as Florianópolis weather in January. It goes from 24.5°C to 27.4°C (76°F to 81°F). The average is a comfy 25.7°C (78°F)

I’ll tell you, this is my absolute favorite time to practice water-based sports. It doesn’t matter if you want to swim, surf, or just take a break; dive in!

Regardless of what exactly you have planned, ocean waters in January are just perfect in Floripa.

Florianópolis Weather in January

What to Wear in Florianópolis in January

The most important part of any trip is packing. As you begin to pack for Florianópolis weather in January, keep in mind you’ll have hot days, occasional rain, and the need to stay hydrated. Plus, you may even have some pre-carnival festivities!

Here’s a list of items to consider:

👗Lightweight Clothing: Your packing list should include moisture-repellant fabrics for your adventures under the sunshine. Prefer to have athletic clothing, tank tops, light shirts, and sundresses. It will be hot and humid, so pick colors to reflect sun rays.

👙 Because there are so many beaches to visit, you need to have plenty of swimsuits available. Pack as many suits as you want, as well as towels, cover-ups, bags, and shoes or sandals.

🩴 Comfortable Footwear: It’s highly recommended to pack your comfiest shoes. Whether it’s sandals and flip-flops for the beach or walking shoes to explore, you don’t want to be stuck with breaking in shoes during your vacation.

☔ Rain Gear: Having a small umbrella or windbreaker can be a lifesaver during those pesky rain showers in the afternoon.

👒 Sun Protection: Florianopolis weather in January can be hot! Trust me when I say that our sun can be intense, so be prepared. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen and a sun hat if you can. They’ll protect you since even a short amount of time in the sun can cause a lot of damage to your skin.

👗 Evening Wear: Yes, most of your day will be hot. But evenings cool down, and that can be chilly on your sun-kissed skin. So, have at least a couple of light layers for when that happens.

💃 Carnival Attire: If you plan on joining any pre-carnival festivities, be sure to have some fun, colorful clothing with you. Maybe even a simple costume!

💧 Reusable Water Bottle: 

Remember, tap water is safe for outside use only, so I don’t recommend drinking from it. Always have a sturdy reusable bottle with you to avoid having to buy so many bottles.

Your end goal has to be having comfort while being protected from the worst of it while enjoying the Florianópolis weather in January.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Unique Things Do to in Florianópolis in January

Remeber that Florianopolis weather in January can be on the warmer side, so remember this when doing the below activities.

Join the Carnival Celebrations: Although not quite there, January has plenty of pre-carnival parties to experience. This time of the year is never the same! From street parties to some early celebrations, put on your most colorful clothes and come join us!

Explore the Sand Dunes: These are some of the main attractions in town. People usually go to Joaquina Beach to appreciate this unique landscape and practice sandboarding. You can rent equipment very easily, given how popular this activity is.

Experience Beach Soccer: Pretty much everywhere has a game going on, and locals will be happy to welcome you in one.

Visit Santo Antônio de Lisboa: This one isn’t quite in town, but it’s close enough. This colonial-era village lets you enjoy historic architecture, see some art galleries, and enjoy the views. Also, include time to dine in a traditional seafood restaurant in your itinerary!

Enjoy Fresh Oysters: Florianópolis weather in January is the best time to eat fresh oysters. A place you can go to is Ribeirão da Ilha. There, you’re able to visit oyster farms to hear about cultivation and eat straight from the source.

Hike to Lagoinha do Leste: In case you’re the outdoor type, a WONDERFUL activity is to take a hike to a beach called Lagoinha do Leste. This specific route has some amazing views along the path to a wonderful beach.

Take a Boat Tour to Ilha do Campeche: Another awesome thing to add to your itinerary is a boat tour all the way to Ilha do Campeche. This place is famous for having clear waters and archaeological sites. There’s something for everyone to do!

Explore the Lagoa da Conceição Market: This is my favorite place to look for unique items. Here, you’ll find everything from artisanal foods to fresh produce and traditional Brazilian foods. Lagoa da Conceição Market is a wonderful place to feel like you belong. 

Visit the Fortresses: It’s always nice to know a little more about the place you’re visiting. In Floripa, you can take time to visit one of many fortresses that were used to protect the island once upon a time. Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa and Fortaleza de Santa Cruz are the two top choices for a change of scenery.

Each of these activities is a chance to immerse yourself in this rich culture and experience the nature and energy Floripa can offer. Plan ahead and make the most of your time in this beautiful place.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Holidays & Festivals in Florianópolis in January

In January, Florianópolis is not so busy with Festivals and activities, but there’s much to do! There are many local events, such as pre-carnival festivities, summer parties, surf competitions, and arts and crafts fairs. 

Here are some cool things to do in Florianópolis in January: 

Pre-carnival festivities: These celebrations are truly one of a kind. Get in the mood to party with street celebrations, concerts, and the like. 

Summer Parties: Many neighborhoods around here have ‘public’ parties all through the summer days. These events have music, traditional dances, and vendors offering local cuisine, handmade items, and more.

Surf Competitions: Because of the strong winds at the seaside, January is a nice month for surfing, and hopefully, Florianópolis weather in January may let you watch some competitions! They can be regional or national; just go to popular beaches like Joaquina or Santinho to see skilled people competing for the win while riding waves.

Art and Craft Fairs: It’s certain you will find arts and crafts fairs in almost every district throughout the year. Go through some unique artwork to discover handmade items and island culture.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Florianópolis in January: Ultimate Travel Guide

Is your trip to Florianópolis happening in January? Here’s an ultimate travel guide I’ve put together for you! It’s got all the little details you need to make the most of your time here. The one thing to keep in mind is that Florianopolis weather in January can be on the warmer side, so plan accordingly.

Is Florianópolis Safe to Travel To?

Oh, definitely! Floripa is incredibly safe as a destination. But you need to take some precautions just as you would anywhere else.

As a visitor, it’s good to follow some basic safety rules. First is to do proper research on where you’re staying. Then, you should only book tours or shows online or with your accommodation. And please avoid isolated areas at all costs, keeping an eye on your surroundings no matter the time.

Also, leave all your fancier stuff back where it’s safe!

It’s also recommended to be respectful of local customs and dress codes if you see there are any. As tourists, use trusted services to ensure you’re good going from place to place. I’d advise you to only use Uber or even rent a car if possible.

Stay in touch with friends and family, no matter where they are, and tell them about your plans.

I am definitely biased, but trust me, traveling to Brazil, more so Florianópolis, can be wonderful if you plan correctly.

Where is Florianópolis, Brazil?

Florianópolis, known as ‘Floripa’ to many, is way down south in Brazil. The coastal area of Santa Catarina is a place where seaside beauty meets rich heritage.

What State is Florianópolis In? 

Florianópolis is a lot more than coastal delights. You find this town within the state of Santa Catarina. This southern state is sandwiched between Paraná and Rio Grande do Sul, allowing you to also explore highlands and beautiful coastal areas.

How to Get to Florianópolis, Brazil?

Florianópolis can be accessed easily by air, road, and sea:

By Air: Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN) is the city’s main airport. It connects to major Brazilian cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Porto Alegre, and some international destinations.

By Road: Florianópolis connects to other parts of Brazil pretty well by highways. You could rent a car, go by bus, or hire a private transfer to get where you need to go.

By Sea: Florianópolis has a port to receive cruises, especially during summer. This is a great way to reach the city on a cruise itinerary.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Best Places to Stay in Florianópolis in January

Like any other place, there are many choices for where to book your stay in Florianópolis, Brazil. Your final choice depends on what you want out of your trip. Also, remember that Florianopolis weather in January can be on the hotter side, so make sure you choose an area based on how much you are comfortable walking.

The best-known areas are Lagoa da Conceição (groups of friends and solo travelers), Canasvieiras (families), Santo Antônio de Lisboa (couples), Downtown (best central location), Jurerê Internacional (nightlife). 

So, your first goal is to decide what’s the endgame for your trip. Keep in mind who is going, and do research based on that.

Lagoa da Conceição (Best for Groups of Friends and Solo Travelers) 

Lagoa da Conceição in Florianópolis is the first option for solo people and groups. It offers good nightlife, several good restaurants, and outdoor activities. 

Choosing to stay at a hotel in this neighborhood lets you be in the middle of the action while providing easy access to other Floripa attractions.

Canavieiras (Best for Families) 

If you’re going down with the whole family, Canasvieiras is an excellent choice.

This place is famous for calm waters and sandy beaches, a safe space for children who like to swim and play. The district is full of family restaurants and shops while offering several accommodations for families of all sizes. 

It has a laid-back atmosphere and amenities. Booking your stay in Canasvieiras will ensure a stress-free, enjoyable family holiday.

Santo Antônio de Lisboa (Best for Couples)

Santo Antônio de Lisboa is a cute destination for couples in Florianópolis. It has everything from sunsets and cobblestone streets to adorable colonial architecture. It has an intimate atmosphere everywhere you go. 

There are so many cozy restaurants and little shops. Staying here will give couples a retreat from the hustle and bustle of more central locations.

Centro or Downtown (Best Central Location) 

Downtown Florianópolis is the city’s heart, which makes it a perfect central location for all kinds of visitors. With a mix of historical sites, markets, varied restaurant options, and active nightlife, there’s always something different to get right into. 

Choosing to stay here will give you easy access to the city’s main attractions and transport links, which I think makes for a perfect home base for your Florianópolis trip.

Jurerê Internacional (Best for Nightlife) 

Jurerê Internacional is Florianópolis’ place to be for people who want a nonstop nightlife scene. This is where high-end clubs, beachfront bars, and stylish restaurants meet each other. It is where you will want to be if your goal is to party and shop at great spots. 

Staying in this neighborhood drops you where the action happens!

Is there Uber in Florianópolis?

Yes, Uber is in Florianópolis and is a very popular (and convenient) way to get around for residents and visitors. The app works just as it does anywhere else, making it easy to get a ride and go where you want to. Other than Uber, there are more ride-sharing apps, such as 99 and Cabify, also available.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Florianópolis in January: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Best Months to Visit Florianópolis, Brazil?

In my opinion, the best months to enjoy Florianópolis are between December and March. During these days, the weather is nice and sunny and perfect for people who want to enjoy beaches and the outdoors enthusiasts. 

Does it Get Cold in Florianópolis?

Not really. Florianópolis has very mild winters, and temperatures go from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (59-68°F). It’s not considered quite cold by most people, but it certainly feels chillier compared to Florianópolis weather in January and other summer months.

What is the Coldest Month in Florianópolis?

July is usually the coldest month in Florianópolis, with low temperatures averaging around 15 degrees Celsius (59°F).

Packing for Florianópolis in January: What to Bring?

Start with lightweight summer items, then your chosen swimwear, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen for outside activities. Please remember to bring a light layer for when evenings cool down and a small umbrella for those unpredictable rain showers.

On top of that, remember this city is full of events and festivals, including pre-carnival celebrations. If you want or prefer a calmer vibe and lower prices, consider planning your visit for the shoulder months of November or April, when the weather is still nice but the crowds are a lot smaller. 

The winter from June to August is cooler, with a lot more rainfall, which makes them less ideal for beach activities. However, this period can still be good for exploring the city’s cultural side, history, and local cuisine without the rush of the high tourist season.

Is January a Good Time to Visit Brazil?

Oh definitely, Florianópolis weather in January is my favorite time to visit beaches in Brazil, not only because it is the summer season with perfect weather but because there also are plenty of festivals and events to attend.

Florianópolis Weather in January

Final Thoughts: Visiting Florianópolis in January

When it comes to the timing of your visit, I have to say Florianópolis weather in January is one of my top choices. From diverse parties to beautiful beaches and twice as many great restaurants, Floripa is the place to go to if you’re after a balance of relaxing and adventuring.

Don’t be a stranger! Join festivities that come just before Carnival, experience the energy of swimming in the ocean, move your body to music, and dive into one of Brazil’s most famous cities. 

Plus, both the island and continental parts of the city have different beaches for you to do whatever you feel like, from basking in the sun to practicing a radical sport. And if you’re into the idea of trying foods, go for fresh seafood or Azorean dishes.

Dedicate some time to explore since each corner has a different atmosphere, from tourist darling Lagoa da Conceição to wonderful Santo Antônio de Lisboa. There is something for everyone in here!

When it comes to safety, Floripa is relatively safe in comparison to other capitals. But this is no excuse to go crazy! Always have caution, even more so in crowded areas or when it’s dark. Make friends with your common sense and follow every travel safety tip to make sure your trip runs smoothly.

January is at the peak of tourist season, so plan ahead to avoid stress. No matter who your company is, Floripa is ready to give you a trip full of adventurous activities, culture, and nature.

If you’re asking me, Florianópolis in January is the place to be! You’ll have a unique mix of celebrations, natural sights, and culture at your door. Get ready to embrace the island, and it will give you the best memories!