Florianópolis: A Craft Beer Lover’s Paradise

Welcome to Florianópolis, affectionately known as ‘Floripa’ by locals! This stunning island city in Southern Brazil is not just famous for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant nightlife, and surf culture, but also for its burgeoning craft beer scene. As a local who has explored every corner of this island, I’m thrilled to guide you through the best spots to discover the diverse and exciting world of craft beer here. From cozy brewpubs to innovative breweries, Floripa offers a unique tasting experience that perfectly complements its laid-back island vibe.

The Rise of Florianópolis’ Craft Beer Scene

For years, Brazil’s beer market was dominated by large-scale lagers. However, in recent times, there’s been a revolution, and Florianópolis has been at the forefront of this movement. Driven by passionate brewers and an increasingly sophisticated palate of local consumers, the city has seen an explosion of independent breweries and craft beer bars. This growth is fueled by a desire for quality, variety, and locally produced beverages that reflect the unique character of Santa Catarina, the state where Floripa is located. The local culture, deeply influenced by European immigration (especially German and Italian), has always had an appreciation for well-crafted beverages, making the transition to craft beer a natural evolution.

Must-Visit Breweries and Brewpubs

When you’re in Floripa and craving a cold, well-crafted beer, these are the places that consistently deliver an exceptional experience. I’ve spent countless evenings sampling their offerings, and they never disappoint.

1. Cervejaria Unika (Barra da Lagoa)

Located in the charming neighborhood of Barra da Lagoa, Cervejaria Unika is a true gem. It’s more than just a brewery; it’s a community hub. They are known for their commitment to quality ingredients and innovative recipes. Their taproom has a relaxed, beachy atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the nearby lagoon or beach. I love their IPA selection, which is always crisp and flavorful, and their German-inspired lagers are a nod to the region’s heritage.

What to Try: Their flagship IPA, a refreshing Witbier, and any seasonal specials.
Insider Tip: Check their social media for live music events on weekends – it’s a great vibe!

2. Kairós Brewpub (Campeche)

Campeche, a neighborhood famous for its stunning beach and surf breaks, is also home to Kairós Brewpub. This spot perfectly captures the spirit of Floripa – relaxed, friendly, and focused on good times. Kairós offers a diverse range of beers, from bold stouts to easy-drinking lagers. The food menu is also excellent, making it a great place for a full evening out. Their outdoor seating area is particularly pleasant, especially during sunset.

What to Try: Their Double IPA for a hop punch, and their Session IPA for something lighter.
Insider Tip: Pair your beer with their delicious burgers or their local ‘pastel’ (savory pastry).

3. Big John American BBQ & Craft Beer (Itacorubi)

While not strictly a brewery, Big John is a legendary spot for craft beer enthusiasts in Floripa. Located in the Itacorubi area, it’s renowned for its authentic American BBQ and an incredible selection of craft beers on tap, featuring many local and national breweries. The owner is a true beer aficionado and curates an impressive list. This is the place to go if you want to sample a wide variety of styles from different producers all in one spot. The smoky aroma of the BBQ combined with the diverse beer aromas is intoxicating.

What to Try: Ask the bartender for recommendations based on your preferences – they are incredibly knowledgeable.
Insider Tip: Their brisket and pulled pork are divine, and they pair exceptionally well with a malty Amber Ale or a robust Stout.

4. Lohn Bier (Agronômica/Centro)

Lohn Bier is one of the pioneers of craft beer in Santa Catarina. While their production facility might be a bit outside the immediate tourist path, they often have partnerships with bars and restaurants across the city, and their presence is felt everywhere. They are known for their quality and consistency. Look out for their beers on tap at various establishments throughout Floripa, especially in the Centro and Agronômica neighborhoods.

What to Try: Their APA (American Pale Ale) and their Sour beers are highly acclaimed.
Insider Tip: Keep an eye on their social media for special releases and events.

5. Maltaria (Centro)

For a more urban craft beer experience, Maltaria in the city center is a fantastic choice. It’s a bar dedicated to showcasing craft beers, often featuring rotating taps from local and regional breweries. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a great place to mingle with locals and fellow beer lovers. They usually have a good selection of styles, catering to both beginners and seasoned craft beer drinkers.

What to Try: Explore their tap list for what’s new and interesting.
Insider Tip: This is a great spot to visit before or after exploring the historic center of Florianópolis.

Exploring the Island’s Beer Culture

Floripa’s craft beer scene is deeply intertwined with its lifestyle. You’ll often find people enjoying craft beers at beach kiosks, during sunset gatherings, or after a surf session. The culture is unpretentious and welcoming. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the bartenders or brewery staff; they are passionate about their craft and happy to share their knowledge.

Neighborhoods to Explore for Beer

Lagoa da Conceição: This vibrant area is a hub for nightlife and has several bars and restaurants offering craft beer. It’s a great place to start your evening.
Campeche: As mentioned, Kairós is here, but the area’s laid-back vibe makes it perfect for enjoying a craft beer with ocean views.
Barra da Lagoa: Home to Cervejaria Unika, this neighborhood offers a more traditional, fishing village feel, making the craft beer experience here feel even more authentic.
Centro: For a more urban setting, bars like Maltaria in the city center provide access to a wide range of beers and a lively atmosphere.

What to Drink: Styles to Look For

While IPAs (India Pale Ales) are incredibly popular, the Floripa scene offers much more:

American Pale Ale (APA): Crisp, hoppy, and refreshing – a perfect all-rounder.
IPA & Double IPA: For those who love a strong hop flavor and higher alcohol content.
Witbier: A Belgian-style wheat beer, often brewed with coriander and orange peel, very refreshing for the tropical climate.
Lagers: Don’t underestimate the craft lagers! Many breweries offer crisp, clean lagers that are a step up from mass-produced options.
Stouts & Porters: Especially popular during the cooler months (which are mild in Floripa), these dark beers offer rich, roasted flavors.
Sour Beers: Increasingly popular, these offer a tart and complex drinking experience.

Practical Tips for Craft Beer Explorers

Use Ride-Sharing Apps: Getting around Floripa can be challenging due to traffic, especially in peak season. Apps like Uber are readily available and a safe way to travel between neighborhoods and breweries, especially if you plan on enjoying multiple tastings.
Check Opening Hours: While many places are open daily, it’s always a good idea to check their social media or websites for current opening hours, especially on weekdays or during holidays.
Embrace the ‘Copinho’: Many bars will serve smaller tasting portions, often called a ‘copinho’ (little glass). This is a fantastic way to try several different beers without overdoing it.
Stay Hydrated: Floripa is humid and warm. Always drink plenty of water alongside your beer.
Explore Beyond the Taproom: Look for craft beers from Florianópolis breweries in good restaurants and specialized beer shops. You might be surprised by the quality you find. Consider using resources like Dropt.beer to discover more breweries and taprooms, and to stay updated on the latest craft beer news and releases from the region.
Purchase Your Favorites: If you find a beer you love, check if the brewery has a shop or if it’s available for purchase in bottles or cans to take home. Dropt.beer’s shop can be a great resource for finding where to buy local craft beers online.
Read Up: For deeper insights into the Brazilian craft beer scene, including news and trends from Florianópolis, check out Dropt.beer’s blog.

A Taste of Floripa

Florianópolis offers more than just beautiful scenery; it offers an authentic taste of Brazilian craft beer culture. The passion of the brewers, the quality of the ingredients, and the stunning island setting combine to create an unforgettable experience for any beer lover. So, grab your friends, explore these amazing spots, and let the unique flavors of Floripa’s craft beer scene surprise and delight you. Cheers!