LGBTQ+: Florianópolis, Brazil

Florianópolis, or Floripa, is the second-largest city of Brazil’s Santa Catarina state and rests entirely on the namesake island. Roughly 100 beaches surround it, making it the perfect destination for travelers in search of sun and sand. It’s also one of the friendliest cities for LGBTQ+ visitors.

Floripa is highly regarded for its stunning beaches and the southern portion of the island is where you’ll find most of the community congregating. Praia dos Açores by Pantano do Sul is one of the more popular beaches among the gay and lesbian locals.

Praia de Jurerê is the heart of the LGBTQ+ community in Floripa. Here you’ll find countless shops, restaurants and bars all catering to gay residents and travelers. Many of the clubs here are actually bigger than anything you’ll find in Brazil. Jivago Social Club and Conca are two of the largest and the places to be if you want to dance. When it comes to dining out, you’ll want to check out Pier 54. It offers spectacular ocean views and some of the best seafood in the city.

Floripa holds several events throughout the year that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. Gay Pop, held during the annual Carnivale celebration, is a drag queen beauty contest that attracts more than 50,000 people a year. In September, you’ll find Gay Pride week, where they hold the Diversity Games, a showcase of the best gay athletes in Brazil and from around the world.

Florianópolis even has a law on the book that forbids homophobia, so you should feel comfortable wandering the city without fear of judgment. It’s a wonderful place to spend a couple of weeks soaking up sun and exploring all the incredible dining and shopping the city has to offer.