Prainha is possibly the most beautiful beach of Rio de Janeiro, thanks to its outstanding natural beauty. Located in an unspoiled and protected area (Grumari APA – Environmental Protection Area) and surrounded by hills covered with tropical rainforest, prainha  is a paradise for surfers and nature lovers. The big and tubular waves are described as the best in Rio (many national and international surf competitions are held here) and the beach keeps a wild nature. There are a couple of kiosks where you can have sandwiches, juices and açaí, but prainha is still a secluded spot. Quite crowded on weekends but very quiet in weekdays. Come in the morning, because the sun hides behind the mountains in mid-afternoon.

Location. Prainha is located in Rio de Janeiro’s west side, past Barra da Tijuca and Recreio dos Bandeirantes. Access to the beach is on Avenida Estado da Guanabara.

Getting there. There is a service of “Surf Bus” doing the following stops: Largo do Machado (Flamengo) – Botafogo – Copacabana – Ipanema – Leblon – São Conrado – Barra da Tijuca – Recreio dos Bandeirantes – Macumba – Prainha. Phone: +55 21 8702-2837.

São Conrado is a wide sandy beach stretching between Leblon and Barra da Tijuca. It is a very quiet neighborhood with a breathtaking view of Dois Irmãos Mountain and of the magnetic Pedra da Gávea (Gavea Rock). The strong water swells make of São Conrado the perfect beach for surfing the waves. On the beach is also the hand gliding and paragliding company, where you can book your flight over Rio. The beautiful bicycle path running along the beach is lined with kiosks.

This tiny beach is a hidden jewel surrounded by a powerful nature. Heavenly located in Joatinga, it is quite difficult to reach (therefore extremely quit). The waves and the current are strong, so you will see more surfers than swimmers here. If you don’t surf, don’t worry: the real magic of this beach is the outstanding natural location, with a view of the islands, the fishing boats on the horizon and the sun turning gold the sand.