Sandboard Experience by Adrenailha: A Guide to Adventure and Nature in Florianopolis
If you’re visiting Florianopolis and craving a unique outdoor activity, the Sandboard Experience by Adrenailha offers a fantastic way to connect with the island’s natural beauty. For about $64.28 per person, you get roughly three hours of adventure, scenic views, and learning—a mix that keeps both thrill-seekers and nature lovers happy. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes you to one of Brazil’s most stunning dune fields, revealing landscapes that you might otherwise miss.
What we love about this experience is how it combines intimate access to pristine nature with professional instruction, making it accessible for beginners. Plus, the chance to explore the source of Rio Vermelho and enjoy panoramic views of Mozambique Beach and nearby islands adds a scenic bonus to the adrenaline rush. The only thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to bring your own activity shoes and some water, as these aren’t included.
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and authenticity without the crowds. It’s suited for those who appreciate guided learning, scenic walks, and a chance to try a sport similar to snowboarding but on sand. With an emphasis on safety and fun, it’s a good fit for most ages and physical levels—although those with mobility issues might want to consider the walking involved.
Key Points

- Unique setting: Access to one of Brazil’s most beautiful dune fields in a protected area.
- Professional guidance: Learn sandboarding basics safely from experienced guides.
- Spectacular views: Enjoy stunning vistas of Mozambique Beach, islands, and the Rio Vermelho source.
- Authentic experience: Small, less-touristy dunes for a more intimate connection with nature.
- Value for money: Competitive price with included private transportation and equipment.
- Flexible timing: Tours run daily in the late afternoon, when the light is perfect for photos.
A Detailed Look at the Sandboard Experience in Florianopolis
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How the Tour Begins: Access and Introduction
Your journey starts at the Adrenailha base, located at São João do Rio Vermelho. From there, you’ll hop into private transportation that takes you approximately 5 km to the Dunes of Mozambique Beach, nestled near the Rio Vermelho State Park. This route offers a comfortable ride, sparing you the hassle of organizing transport yourself and ensuring you arrive ready to focus on the fun.
Once at the dunes, you’ll walk along a trail through lush forest to access the dune fields—a light, scenic walk that sets the tone for your adventure. Here, your guides will conduct a quick safety briefing and introduce you to the sandboarding equipment. Since the boards use same loops as snowboards, you get a familiar feel, making it easier for newcomers to pick up the basics.
Learning the Ropes: Safety and Technique
Guides like Eduardo are praised for their patience and professionalism—a crucial aspect that turns beginners into confident sandboarders. We loved the way they focus on safety and technique, gradually building your skills as you practice on smaller dunes. For many, this hands-on approach makes all the difference, transforming nervous beginners into enthusiastic sand surfers.
The practice phase involves gentle slopes, perfect for mastering balance and control. Since the dunes vary in size and steepness, the activity offers the chance to adjust difficulty levels. It’s a sport that’s part snowboarding, part skateboarding, with the added twist of free-flowing sand instead of snow or pavement.
Exploring the Dunes and Scenery
After feeling comfortable, it’s time to explore the larger dunes—and the thrill kicks up a notch. As you descend, you’ll notice how the wind shapes the dunes, creating endless paths and varying slopes. Many reviewers mention how the sands themselves are beautiful, with shades of yellow contrasting with the lush greenery of the forest and the blue sky.
One reviewer, Lena, noted, “The sand was just so amazing,” emphasizing the quality of the terrain. The dunes are largely free of travelers, allowing for a more personalized and less crowded experience. This makes the activity not just about adrenaline but also about connection with nature.
Scenic Highlights and Additional Stops
The tour offers more than just sandboarding. Once you’ve had your fill of downhill fun, guides often take you to see the source of Rio Vermelho or visit Praia do Moçambique. These spots offer tranquil scenery and a chance to appreciate the natural sources and coastal beauty of the region.
Sunset and Bay Contemplation
If you opt for an evening session, the tour turns even more magical. As the sun sets, you’ll gather your kayaks (if included) to enjoy a contemplative view of the bay at dusk, with stars twinkling overhead. While not all tours include this, reviews show that sunset sandboarding combined with bay views makes for unforgettable memories.
Practical Details and Tips
- Transportation: Included in price, private and hassle-free.
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours—ideal for those wanting a quick yet immersive outdoor activity.
- Price: $64.28, which we find reasonable considering equipment, guides, transportation, and the exclusive access.
- What to Bring: Closed shoes (activity shoes recommended), bottled water, and snacks—your guides don’t provide these.
- Clothing: Casual, comfortable, and suitable for walking and outdoor activity.
- Group Size: Usually small, with some reviews mentioning it ended up being just a couple, allowing for personalized attention.
Authenticity and Quality Based on Reviews

Customer reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Maria, for example, mentions her guide Eduardo as “the best,” and others highlight how guides taught sandboarding with patience and care. The views and natural environment are often described as breathtaking, with Lena noting, “The dunes, mountains, and ocean in view—simply incredible.”
The small, less touristy dunes are a major plus for those craving an authentic experience. Many reviewers emphasize the fun and adrenaline, but also appreciate the scenic beauty and the educational aspect. This combination of adventure and scenery makes the tour stand out from more commercially crowded options.
Who Will Love This?
This experience is perfect for adventure lovers of all levels, especially those interested in trying something new like sandboarding. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic escape from busy beaches. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy outdoor sports and natural landscapes will find this tour offers great value and authenticity.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For a fair price, you get not only professional instruction but also access to pristine dunes that are usually off-limits to travelers. The scenery alone justifies the trip, with views of beaches, islands, and the source of Rio Vermelho offering plenty of photo opportunities.
The guides’ expertise and the small group or private setting make this a personalized, safe, and fun activity. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want to enjoy a scenic walk with some added adrenaline, this tour promises a memorable experience.
The only consideration might be the walking involved—if mobility is a concern, check with the operator. Also, remember to bring your own shoes and water to stay comfortable and hydrated during the activity.
FAQ
Do I need to know how to snowboard or surf?
No, the guides teach the basics, and the equipment uses the same loops as snowboards, making it accessible for beginners.
How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately three hours, including transportation and activity time.
Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation from the Adrenailha base to the dunes is included in the price.
What should I bring?
Bring closed activity shoes, bottled water, snacks, and some sun protection—though these are not provided.
Can I do this activity if I’m not in great shape?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have mobility issues, check with the operator first, as there’s some walking involved.
What’s the best time of day for this activity?
Late afternoon sessions are popular, especially around sunset, providing beautiful lighting and cooler temperatures.
Is the experience suitable for children?
It generally suits most ages, but consider the walking and activity level. Kids comfortable with outdoor sports will enjoy it most.
To sum it up, the Sandboard Experience by Adrenailha offers a well-rounded, authentic adventure in Florianopolis’s stunning dunes. With professional guides, scenic vistas, and the chance to learn a fun sport, it’s a discovery worth making for any explorer eager to see a different side of Brazil’s beautiful coast.
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