Rio de Janeiro is truly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Nestled between mountains, ocean, and tropical jungle, this lively city boasts both natural beauty and a thriving city. Travelers can enjoy the breathtaking natural setting and experience the pulsating energy of one of the liveliest metropolises in Brazil. The beaches of Rio and in the surrounding area are world famous and always full of action. Because of the mild, tropical climate, the beaches are always a top priority for both tourists and locals. Any time of the day or night you'll find people strolling beachside to watch the sunset, playing beach volleyball, or dancing the night away at one of the many annual festivals.

Copacabana is the most famous and popular beach in Rio, and at first sight, is one of the reasons why visitors fall in love with Rio. The beach is surrounded by the Pao de Acucar in the east and circled by a string of hills that stretch out into the bay. Once an isolated area cut off from the city by surrounding mountains, Copacabana has dominated the Brazilian image since the turn of the century. Early in the morning you can see the sun rise over the sparkling blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and then snatch up fresh baked bread from the many neighborhood bakeries, and watch the last partygoers leave the clubs. Copacabana is also a great place to spend New Year's Eve. The legendary beach party attracts over 2 million people every year for the biggest celebration in Brazil.

Just a five-minute walk from Copacabana, Ipanema is a beach known for its trend-setting. Over the years Ipanema has been the origin of several fashion crazes, such as tangas, tiny bikinis that became a national obsession in the 70's, and in the 80's they took it even further when topless became the new fad. Today you'll find people wearing all assortments of styles, from nearly nothing to conservative one pieces. The beach itself is just as it should be: sparkling blue waters and wide stretches of white sand, the perfect place to flaunt your new tan and relax in paradise.

Right next to Ipanema lays Leblon, which is very similar to the adjacent beach, but because much of the upper crust resides in the surrounding neighborhood, it is even more exclusive. The beach is more laid back and relaxed than Ipanema, with more children and families. If this is a family vacation, Leblon might be the better choice than the trendy jet-set crowd of Ipanema and Copacabana. The sunshine also leaves sooner than at the surrounding beaches due to the bordering hills.

Situated across the Guanabara Bay from Rio lies the bustling city center of Niteroi. Travelers looking for less crowded beaches with very few tourists will find several beaches with excellent surf, beautiful views, and a tranquil atmosphere. Icarai Beach lies in the interior of the bay and from the coast you can see Corvocado and Sugar Loaf Mountains in the distance. Nearby is the Beach of the Arrows, which has inspired artists and poets because of its two natural icons, the Indio Rock and the Itapuca Rock. If you're looking for perfect surf in paradise, the neighboring Itacoatiara Beach is a great place to catch some of the best surf in Rio. Set amongst lush tropical vegetation and far away from the hustle and bustle of the nearby cities, it is also an excellent place to relax and revitalize.

Rio de Janeiro Overview

   Sights and City Tours
   Architecture
   Museums
   Beaches
   Entertainment

   Lodging
   Shopping
   Dining
   Transportation

   Carnival in Rio

   Neighborhoods:
   Copacabana
   Ipanema
   Leblon
   Center
   Botafogo
   Leme
   Tijuca

   Nearby Towns:
   Buzios
   Paraty
   Angra dos Reis
   Minas Gerais Towns
   Petropolis

   Nearby Sights:
   Tropical Islands