Campeche Island

Campeche Island (Ilha do Campeche) lies off the south coast of Florianópolis in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil and is known for its clear waters, white-sand beaches and archaeological features. The island is a protected area valued for both natural and cultural heritage.

Visitors come for bathing, snorkelling and short hikes along trails through native vegetation, and to view pre-Columbian rock inscriptions and archaeological remains on the island. Access is by boat from the Florianópolis coast and landing areas are managed to minimise environmental impact.

Archaeological research has recorded rock art and evidence of indigenous occupation, contributing to the island’s protected status. Conservation measures regulate visitor numbers and activities to preserve beaches, reefs and archaeological sites.

The island lies a short boat ride from the southern beaches of Florianópolis and is administered under regional environmental protection rules. Typical visits are day trips with no permanent accommodation on the island.

• Access and protection: Boat access is regulated by local authorities and tour operators; visitor numbers are controlled to protect archaeological sites and coastal ecosystems.
• Visiting rules: Overnight stays are generally not permitted and visits are typically limited to day trips from Florianópolis on scheduled boat services.

What to See #

• Beaches: Southern and eastern beaches - stretches of white sand backed by Atlantic-forest vegetation that are the main landing and swimming areas for day visitors.
• Archaeological sites: Archaeological and rock-art sites - rock inscriptions and archaeological evidence of pre-Columbian occupation recorded on the island's shorelines and rocky outcrops.
• Trails and forest: Trails and forest interior - short trails traverse native forest where visitors can observe coastal flora and fauna under the island's protected status.