Ilha do Campeche: Boat Trip & Guided Island Trails from Florianópolis

Summary

Boat across from Praia da Armação to explore Campeche’s island trails, ancient rock art and quiet beaches—includes tickets and local guide

You’ll cross from Praia da Armação by boat with a local guide, spend four hours exploring Ilha do Campeche’s protected trails and ancient rock art, then relax on white sand beaches or grab lunch at a simple beachside spot (bring cash). It’s a day for slowing down—expect salty air, soft sand underfoot, and stories you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“No one ever remembers sunscreen until it’s too late,” laughed Paulo as he handed out life jackets at the little pier near Praia da Armação. He had that kind of dry humor you only get from years of ferrying people across these waters. The sun was already sharp for 9am, bouncing off the boats and making everyone squint. I could smell salt and sunscreen and something fried from a kiosk nearby—maybe coxinha? We piled onto the boat, legs bumping, backpacks everywhere. The engine rumbled to life and suddenly we were gliding away from the mainland, leaving behind the sound of traffic for nothing but waves and gulls.

The crossing to Ilha do Campeche takes about half an hour—sometimes a bit longer if the sea gets moody. Our guide Ana pointed out tiny islands along the way (I forgot their names instantly), but what stuck with me was how she talked about her childhood here. She said locals used to come over in little fishing boats before tourism picked up. When we landed, the sand felt almost cold under my feet—softer than I expected—and there was this hush, like everyone instinctively lowered their voices. You can only stay four hours on the island, which sounds short but somehow feels just right when you’re there.

Ana led us along one of the marked trails—the only way you’re allowed to explore past the main beach, since they’re strict about preserving things here. We passed ancient rock carvings; Ana traced them with her finger while explaining (in Portuguese first, then English) how old they were. I tried repeating one of the names—Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin; probably butchered it completely. There’s just one restaurant on Ilha do Campeche and it only takes cash (learned that the awkward way), but Bar do Bochecha saved us with card payments for cold drinks. The grilled fish smelled so good I barely waited for it to cool down before digging in.

I still think about that view back toward Florianópolis—the city looked far away and unreal from here. The whole day felt like pressing pause; no WiFi, just sunburned shoulders and sand everywhere, people napping or wandering quietly among trees. When our time was up Ana rounded us up gently (“Só mais cinco minutos!”) and we all shuffled back onto the boat a little quieter than before. Sometimes you don’t realize you needed silence until you find it by accident.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat crossing and island exploration

• Depart from Pier near Praia do Matadeiro
• Take 30-40 minute boat crossing
• Explore Ilha do Campeche for up to 4 hours

Top questions

How long is the boat ride from Praia da Armação to Ilha do Campeche?

The crossing usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes each way.

How much time can I spend on Ilha do Campeche?

You can stay up to 4 hours on the island after arrival.

Is lunch included in this tour?

No, meals are not included; there is one restaurant on the island (cash only) and a kiosk accepting cards.

Are guides required for exploring Ilha do Campeche?

Yes, specialized environmental guides are required for all trails beyond the main beach area.

What happens if bad weather cancels my tour?

If canceled due to weather or sea conditions, your reservation will be moved to the next available day automatically.

Are tickets or entry fees included?

Yes, all fees and tickets for access to Ilha do Campeche are included in your booking.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

No, it is not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues due to uneven terrain.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary fees and tickets for both boat transport and entry to Ilha do Campeche. You’ll be accompanied by an environmental guide who leads small groups along protected trails past archaeological sites before returning by boat after four hours on the island.