Florianópolis or "Desterro" as it was originally called - was founded in 1700 and settled fifty years later by immigrants from the Portuguese mid-Atlantic islands of the Azores. Since then, it's gradually developed from being a sleepy provincial backwater into a sleepy state capital.The natural beauties of Florianópolis attract thousands of visitors every year. Especially in the summer, Brazilians and natives of other South American countries – such as Argentineans, Uruguayans and Chileans – seek the diversity of the Santa Catarina coastline. On the island, side by side, the most varied types of beaches can be found – the long ones, with large strips of sand; the small ones, embedded in backwaters; those with strong waves; and the ones with calm waters, resembling lagoons; urban beaches full of bathers; and deserted beaches, with access by trail only. It is a paradise for surf, windsurf, sailing and fishing enthusiasts.

The Northern and Central regions of Florianópolis are the most sought after by tourists and offer a complete infrastructure of services, resorts, hotels and lodges. Further south, some districts also preserve their countryside village identity, and the heritage left by their ancestors, is noticeable in their manner of speaking, in their handicraft activities, and typical feasts. On the other side, the city has taken on a cosmopolitan air with the arrival of Brazilians from other States and foreigners who chose to live there. The island, which in the beginning of the colonization period, was an important whale hunting centre, is today the technological pole of the IT industry.

Climate
Located in the subtropical coastal region, the city offers a pleasant climate, with most of the rainfall occurring during the summer – from December to January. During this season, the mean temperature is 25°C. In July, the coldest month, the mean is 16.4°C. Short summers (Indian summers) between May and August are common – i.e. a succession of hot days after the first cooler days occur in April