If you want full freedom to explore Florianópolis, renting a car is hands-down the easiest way to get around.
Floripa is an island with 70+ beaches, linked by small roads and spread over an island 53km in length. It is bigger than you might first think. Distances look short on the map, but can be surprisingly far, and when you factor in summer traffic, getting from the north to south of the island can take a few hours.
For most travellers, renting a car in Florianópolis is absolutely worth it.
This guide covers everything you need: airport pickups, prices, driving rules, and pro tips that save you time, money, and frustration.
Quick Answer: Renting a Car in Florianópolis (2025)
- Best place to rent: Florianópolis Airport (FLN) – biggest fleets + best prices
- Documents needed: Passport, home-country license, credit card in your name
- Age requirement: Usually 21+, sometimes 25+
- Average price: R$80–R$150/day for economy cars, R$150–R$350 for SUVs
- Why rent a car: 70+ beaches, long distances, limited public transport
- When to book: 2–4 weeks before arrival (summer sells out fast)
Renting a Car at Florianópolis Airport (FLN)
The easiest place to rent a car is directly at Florianópolis Airport (FLN) when you arrive. Nearly every major rental company operates here, and many travellers pick up their car as soon as they land.
Rental Companies at Florianópolis Airport (FLN)
- Localiza – biggest fleet, most reliable, smoothest pickup
- Movida – modern cars, good apps, tends to be a bit more expensive than Localiza.
- Unidas – simlar selection of cars as Localiza and Movida, competitive pricing. Smaller Company overall.
- Foco – smaller company again, with similar types of cars. Tends to be a bit more expensive than the larger companies.
Inside the arrival hall you will find all of the car rental companies desks. However the actual cars and rental locations are just outside the airport site. If you have pre-booked you can head straight to the shuttle buses.
As you exit the airport and arrive at the pickup and drop off point, just to your front right you will see the car rental shuttle bus pickup point. Each rental company has there own shuttle buses that run to and from the airport and the car rental locations. They will help load your luggage into large comfortable vans, and drive you to the rental location. This drive is only around 5 minutes.
Airport Pickup Process
The exact process depends if you have pre-booked your rental car or not. We will outline them both here:
I have pre-booked my rental car:
- Head directly to the pickup and drop off point outside the airport main entrance.
- To your front right as you exit you will see the rental car shuttles. Each rental car company has it’s own shuttle bus. Movida = Orange. Localiza = Green etc.
- The transfer to the renal car main location is around 5 minutes.
- Present passport + license + credit card
- Sign contract + choose insurance
- Get your keys, and go to find your car.
- Inspect your car in depth for damages. Take photos and video. If your car has some damage, bring it up with reception before you leave the rental car location.
- Return to the same location on departure day.
I have not pre-booked my rental car:
- Go to the rental desk in arrivals
- Present passport + license + credit card
- Head directly to the pickup and drop off point outside the airport main entrance.
- To your front right as you exit you will see the rental car shuttles. Each rental car company has it’s own shuttle bus. Movida = Orange. Localiza = Green etc.
- The transfer to the renal car main location is around 5 minutes.
- Sign contract + choose insurance
- Get your keys, and go to find your car.
- Inspect your car in depth for damages. Take photos and video. If your car has some damage, bring it up with reception before you leave the rental car location.
- Return to the same area on departure day
How to Return Your Rental Car at Florianópolis Airport (FLN)
- When you arrive to the airport stay left and follow the rental company’s signs back the rental car drop off location.
- You will pass the airport parking and make a U-turn to come back to the rental car companies.
- Return the car to your agency’s inspection area.
- Staff will check fuel level, mileage, and car condition.
- If everything is fine they will complete the contract using a mobile device.
- Shuttle returns you to the departures entrance
- Always allow an extra 15–20 minutes during high season
Most agencies at the airport are 24 hours, but if they are not and you return after-hours, most agencies offer a key-drop box.
Car Rental Companies at Florianópolis Airport
| Company | Terminal Desk | Shuttle Required | Hours | Website |
| Localiza | Yes | Yes (5 mins) | 24/7 | localiza.com |
| Movida | Yes | Yes | 24/7 | movida.com.br |
| Unidas | Yes | Yes | 24/7 | unidas.com.br |
| Foco Rent a Car | Desk only | Yes | 05:00–23:00 | foco.com.br |
| Enterprise / Alamo | Via partners | Yes | Varies | enterprise.com |
Why airport pickup is best:
- Faster than arranging city delivery
- No need to carry luggage in rideshares
- Return the car before your flight without detours
- Usually the cheapest location due to high competition
If you’re arriving at peak season (Dec–Feb), book ahead, this is the busiest time of year, and same-day walk-in rates can spike dramatically as inventory drops. Car rental companies are also often fully booked.
Renting a Car in the City (Lagoa, Centro, North Beaches)
If you’re already on the island, you’ll find smaller agencies scattered across popular neighbourhoods like Lagoa da Conceição, Centro, Campeche, and the north beaches.
These are great if:
- You only want a car for a few days
- You want a local agency with personalised pricing
Cons:
- Often a limited fleet
- Shops close early or often closed on weekends.
- Some companies require a large deposit freeze on your card
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Florianópolis?
Car rental prices in Floripa fluctuate heavily between low season (May–September) and high season (December–March).
Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:
| Car Type | Average Daily Rate | |
| Small Budget/Economy Cars (Fiat Mobi 1.0, Renault Kwid 1.0, Fiat Argo 1.0, VW Polo 1.0, Hyundai HB20 1.0, Hyundai HB20S 1.0, GM Onix 1.0, Fiat Cronos 1.0 | R$80-R$150 | |
| Compact SUV (VW T-Cross 1.0 Turbo, Jeep Renegade 1.3, GM Tracker 1.0 Turbo | R$150–R$350 | |
| Pickup/4×4 GM S10 (aut/manual), Nissan Frontier | R$600–R$1200 | |
| Van (7-seater) | R$350–R$900 |
Weekly rentals usually offer better value, often with discounted daily rates.
Additional costs to consider:
- Extra driver fee
- Young driver fee (under 25)
- Insurance upgrades
- Child seats (R$15–R$25/day)
- Toll charges (automatically billed)
Tip: If you’re booking long-term, some agencies offer monthly rates that are significantly cheaper.
Driving in Florianópolis: What to Expect
Driving in Florianópolis is safe and straightforward, with good roads and clear signage. The only challenges are holiday traffic and narrow coastal roads near beaches.
Compared to other parts of Brazil, driving in Florianópolis is straight forward. Of course, this is Brazil and there are some bad/dangerous drivers, but in general Florianópolis is very easy and safe to drive.
Local Insight: Florianópolis has far less road aggression compared to São Paulo or Rio. Most traffic jams are caused by beach access bottlenecks, not dangerous driving.
Expect a mix of scenic coastal roads, occasional chaos, narrow residential streets and heavy rush hour traffic at certain spots. Here’s what you need to know.
Do I Need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP)?
No — foreign tourists can legally drive in Brazil for up to 180 days using their home-country license + passport, unless their license is not in Roman characters (in which case an IDP is recommended).
Brazil accepts most foreign licenses as long as the license uses Roman characters. An International Permit is recommended but not required for most travellers.
Requirements:
- Passport
- National driver’s license
- Credit card in your name
Minimum rental age usually ranges from 21 to 25, depending on company policies.
Roads, Traffic, and Navigation
Florianópolis’ main access highways are:
- SC-401: Runs along the west coast from the City Centre, through Floripas Silicone Valley, the famous Santa Antonia Lisboa and all the way up to Jurere and Canasvieiras in the North of the island.
- SC-405: Access to the south (Campeche, Armação)
- SC-406: Runs from Lagoa to Praia Mole and then north along the east coast up to Ingleses in the North of the island.
- SC-404: Great but narrow route between Lagoa and Trindade
Expect peak hour traffic almost daily, especially near Lagoa, Ingleses, and the bridges connecting the island to the mainland.
Navigation Tips:
- Google Maps works perfectly
- Waze is favoured locally
- Avoid crossing the bridges between 5 pm and 7 pm
Fuel, Parking & Safety Tips
Petrol stations:
Pretty much all neighbourhoods have gas stations. Brazil uses:
- Gasolina B – this is your regular petrol and what most rental cars in Floripa use.
- Etanol (ethanol) – This is a cheaper but less efficient petrol. Most cars are fine, but it is worth checking with the rental company.
- Gasolina Aditivada -This is the premium petrol, burns cleaner, petrol stations will try to sell you this first.
- Diesel (S10) – Unless you rent a 4×4 it is unlikely you will need diesel as diesel cars under a certain weight were banned in 2012.
Parking rules:
- Paid street parking (“Zona Azul”) is common in Centro and some beaches
- Almost all beach parking lots are paid and managed by locals, usually 20-30 reais for the day. Can be paid in cash, card or PIX.
- Do NOT leave valuables visible inside your car (Floripa is really safe, but like anywhere, petty theft happens)
Driving Distances in Florianópolis
| Route | Approx. Time | Notes |
| FLN Airport → Lagoa da Conceição | 20–25 min | Scenic, light traffic outside rush hour |
| FLN Airport → Campeche | 10–15 min | Easiest beach to reach |
| Lagoa → Praia Mole | 5–8 min | Busy on sunny weekends |
| Lagoa → Ingleses | 35–60 min | Traffic varies heavily |
| North (Jurerê) → South (Armação) | 1–2+ hours | Peak-season bottlenecks |
Is It Worth Renting a Car for Surfing?
Absolutely. Floripa is a paradise for surfers with lots of great surfing beaches. But as an island, the conditions can vary day to day and while one spot is pumping today, tomorrow will be somewhere else. Depending on the swell and wind you will find yourself wanting to go elsewhere, and thats where a car can make or break a surf trip.
Is It Worth Renting a Car in Florianópolis? Pros & Cons
Advantages
- You can reach 40+ beaches that buses don’t cover
- Essential for surf trips (boards, gear, early starts)
- Perfect for families with luggage
- Cheaper than rideshares if you visit multiple beaches
- Lets you explore places that public transport doesnt reach
Disadvantages
- Traffic can get heavy in high season, especially near the bridges
- Parking fills up quickly near beaches like Mole and Campeche
- Automatic cars are limited and more expensive
- Surfboard transport rules vary between companies
- Insurance for “off-road” areas is often excluded
Alternatives to Renting a Car
You can get around Floripa without a car — it just depends on your plans.
Uber & Rideshares
Popular, cheap, and reliable, but:
- Surges during rainy days
- Limited availability on the north side after midnight
- Not ideal for surfboards
Buses
They exist.
They’re safe.
They’re… slow.
They’re often packed.
Scooters & Motorbikes
Moto rentals are common around Lagoa. Great for solo travellers, but not advisable during rainy season.
If you want to rent a bike, you MUST have the suitable license from your home country. Police are very strict on motorbike riders and you will often pass checkpoints where they stop all motorbikes to check licenses, bike paperwork, road worthiness and the correct type of helmets.
Private Transfers
Perfect for airport pickup or long-distance hotel transfers, but not for exploring as the costs can rocket.
Do You Need a Car in Florianópolis? (Short Answer)
You don’t need a car in Florianópolis, but for most travellers it makes the trip far easier. The island is large, the beaches are spread out, and public transport is slow. If you plan to visit multiple beaches, surf different spots, or stay outside Lagoa da Conceição, renting a car is highly recommended.
When You Don’t Need a Car in Florianópolis
You may not need a car if:
- You’re staying only in Lagoa da Conceição
- You plan to spend most days at Praia Mole / Joaquina / Barra
- You’re traveling solo and not carrying surfboards
- Your hotel is beach-front and walkable
- You’re here in low season and using Uber
This prevents your article from looking “commercial,” which AI penalizes.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Florianópolis
Here are the official requirements used by all major Brazilian rental agencies (Localiza, Movida, Unidas, Foco):
Documents Required
- Valid driver’s license from your home country
- Passport (foreigners)
- International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license isn’t in Roman characters
- Physical credit card in the renter’s name (no virtual cards or debit)
Age Requirements
- Minimum age: 21 years old
- Some agencies require:
- Your license must be 2 years old
- Extra young-driver fees for renters under 25
Deposit / Hold Policy
Most agencies require a credit-card hold ranging from R$1,000–R$3,000 depending on car category and the level of their insurance you take out. If you opt for no additional insurance cover, the hold on your card will be larger.
Insurance Rules
Basic insurance usually includes:
- Collision
- Theft
- Third-party liability
Optional add-ons:
- Windshield + tire coverage
- No-excess insurance
Driving Legally in Brazil (For Foreign Visitors)
Foreign visitors may drive in Brazil using:
- Their home-country driver’s license
- Passport
- International Driving Permit (IDP) if the license isn’t in English/Portuguese
Tourists may drive legally for up to 180 days.
How Rental Car Insurance Works in Brazil
All major agencies in Brazil include basic coverage (LDW/PDW) in the price, which protects against theft, collision, and third-party damage. What you still need to choose:
- Zero-excess insurance (optional, reduces deductible to zero)
- Glass and tyre coverage
- Off-road coverage (important if accessing rural areas)
Most agencies do not cover damage caused by:
- Driving on unpaved, muddy, or flooded roads
- Water damage from beach roads or storms
Always read the contract carefully if you plan to explore remote beaches.
Most rental agencies in Brazil accept coverage from credit cards. Be sure to deny all additional insurances, as accepting local insurances often voids your credit card rental car coverage. Always check with the rental car company and your credit card for specific details.
Renting a Car for Surfboards in Florianópolis
If you’re bringing surfboards, here’s what to expect:
- Most hatchbacks fit 1–2 shortboards with seats down or over the top.
- SUVs fit 2–4 boards with one of the back seats down or over the top/
- Pickup trucks (S10, Hilux, Frontier) can carry loads of boards without taking up any passenger space.
- Localiza and Unidas occasionally offer surfboard racks (ask in advance)
- Avoid leaving boards visible in the car at night
- Avoid leaving boards in the car during hot days as car temperatures can easily melt surfboards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a Car in Florianópolis
- Not inspecting the car before leaving the rental lot
- Renting a manual car without realising most hills are steep
- Accepting unnecessary add-on insurances (especially if your credit card covers rentals)
- Forgetting to record pre-existing scratches and wheel damage
- Leaving surfboards or valuables in the car at beaches
- Returning the car late without allowing time for summer traffic
FAQ – Renting a Car in Florianópolis
Is it worth renting a car in Florianópolis?
Yes. Distances are long, buses are slow, and beaches are spread out. A car gives you complete freedom.
Can foreigners drive in Brazil?
Yes — just bring your passport and home-country license.
What’s the best place to rent a car in Florianópolis?
The airport (FLN) has the best prices, fleet size, and convenience.
Are there tolls in Florianópolis?
No tolls on the island itself, but once you leave the island the main highways have tolls which are billed on an automatic system (Tag) or by cash/card at the correct lanes.
Do I need a 4×4?
No. The majority of Florianópolis is well paved but there are some beaches that are only accessible by 4×4.
Can I rent a car in Florianópolis without a credit card?
No. All major companies require a physical credit card for the deposit.
Do rental cars include toll tags?
Yes. Nearly all agencies use automatic toll devices (Tag), billed after return.
Is parking difficult at the beaches?
During summer, yes, it can be. Arrive before 10am for famous spots like Mole, Campeche, and Joaquina. There is lots of parking, just be patient.
Final Tips Before You Book
- Book early in the summer — cars sell out.
- Choose automatic if you’re not confident with manual (there are a lot of steep hills).
- Inspect the car and film a quick walk-around to check for damage BEFORE you leave the rental car location. If there is any damage, highlight it immediately.
- Confirm surfboard rack availability if needed.
- Avoid driving during peak bridge hours unless you enjoy sitting still.
