The best beaches of Rio de Janeiro: review, description and reviews. The best beaches in rio de janeiro

In our winter January (2014) review summer theme(and in Brazil in January calendar summer), let's talk about the two most famous beaches in Rio de Janeiro - Copacabana and Ipanema. And about how the first beach lost to the last.

We will also talk about three other beaches from the big five most popular beaches in Rio, according to The Rio Times (2011): Leblon, Botafogo and Flamengo.

We will also characterize the urban areas of the same name adjacent to the five of these beaches.

The material is based on Brazilian publications.

The Brazilian English-language newspaper The Rio Times, in its 2014 Bikini and Beachwear Guide for 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, published on 24/12/2013, notes: on the beaches of Rio, it's important to remember one thing: when it comes to swimwear, for both men and women, the more minimalist the swimwear, the better."

The Brazilian English-language newspaper The Rio Times, in its 2014 Bikini and Beachwear Guide for 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, published on 24/12/2013, notes:

"In order to look at home on the beaches of Rio, it's important to remember one thing: when it comes to swimwear, for both men and women, the more minimalist the swimwear, the better."

The newspaper used this illustration of swimwear by local brand Blue Man to show the beach habits of carioca (cariocas, lit. born in Rio, residents of Rio de Janeiro).

Read more, among other things, in our review.

Ipanema and Copacabana: the five main beaches of Zona Sul Rio de Janeiro

In an illustration from The Rio Times newspaper: the most famous beaches of Zona Sul in Rio de Janeiro and the whole city: Ipanema (Ipanema - in the foreground on the right) and Copacabana (Copacabana - in the center and on the upper left of the picture).

In an illustration from The Rio Times newspaper: the most famous beaches of Zona Sul in Rio de Janeiro and the whole city:

Ipanema (Ipanema - in the foreground on the right) and Copacabana (Copacabana - in the center and on the upper left of the picture).

Also on the horizon you can see Sugar Loaf Mountain and Botafogo Beach.

Part of the Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon is visible on the left.

On the excursion map of Rio de Janeiro, five of the most popular beaches are indicated - Ipanema (Ipanema), Leblon (Leblon), Copacabana (Copacabana), Botafogo (Botafogo) and Flamengo (Flamengo).

It is these five beaches that are the most popular (read: the most famous) beaches in the Zona Sul of Rio de Janeiro today (and, in fact, throughout Rio, since the subprefecture of the South Zone (Zona Sul) is the richest and most touristic subprefecture city), writes the English-language newspaper The Rio Times published in the city.

At the same time, the best among them, according to the same newspaper and not only, is the Ipanema-Leblon beach, located in the corresponding most prosperous areas of the city.

Part of the Ipanema beach is a small beach for surfers Arpoador (next to the cape of the same name, it is also indicated on the map).

Copacabana beach in terms of prestige is much inferior to the beaches of Ipanema and Leblon.

And in the waters of Flamengo Beach, it is generally almost impossible to swim, due to water pollution, the newspaper writes. Although, we note that recently, as a result of sanitation, with a favorable wave and on some days, Flamengo beach is still open for swimming.

It is almost impossible to swim in the waters of Botafogo Beach.

In other words, the cleanest beaches in Rio de Janeiro are not included in the five we mentioned. As the guide points out " South America» (APA Publishing), the cleanest beaches in Rio de Janeiro are behind the plains of Barra de Guaratiba (Barra de Guaratiba), which is even further south along the coast beyond the Rio suburb of Sao Conrado (Sao Conrado). And in opposite side from the polluted Guanabara Bay (port. Baía da Guanabara, English Guanabara Bay) - see the map.

Also on the map we see the symbols of Rio: the statue of Christ (Cristo) with with outstretched arms on the top of Mount Corcovado (Corcovado), Mount "Sugar Loaf" (port. Pão de Açúcar, on the map it is signed in English as Sugar Loaf). The Sambodrome, Guanabara Bay and some other objects are also indicated on the map.

The beaches of Copacabana (four kilometers long) and Ipanema (three kilometers long), with the same area, are located in the southern part (Zona Sul) of Rio de Janeiro. (Note that along with the Southern zone (Zona Sul), the city of Rio de Janeiro is officially divided into six more subprefectures: Center, North, West, Governor's Island, Bara i Jacarepagua and Grande Tijuca (each of the subprefectures includes several districts), and unofficially also to the Islands and Slums (fevels).

In total, Zona Sul in Rio de Janeiro has five of the most popular beaches (according to The Rio Times) - Ipanema, Leblon, Copacabana, Botafogo and Flamengo. At the same time, in its publication a little over two years ago (September 2011), The Rio Times indicated: “Flamengo Beach is a lesser known beach in Rio than Copacabana and Ipanema, and because of the dirty water Flamengo beach is not suitable for swimming". It is also impossible to swim in the waters of Botafogo Beach.

Sports on Ipanema beach.

Sports on Ipanema beach. ill. from The Rio Times.

However, The Rio Times writes that despite the different status of the five Zona Sul Rio beaches mentioned, views of the ocean and the promenade at all these beaches are very expensive. Although the cost may differ by a third, for example, comparing the more expensive and prestigious Ipanema and Leblon, compared to the cheaper Copacabana.

The Leblon and Ipanema districts are now (2014) considered the safest, wealthiest and most expensive districts of Rio de Janeiro. Note that they, like the Copacabana area, received their development only in the 19th century, and until that time only rural houses and farms were located here.

Copacabana area and beach

Copacabana Beach and Avenida Atlantica ("Atlantic Street"), built in 1906.

Copacabana Beach is surrounded by high-rise hotels and commercial real estate, which somewhat obscures the beach.

ill. from The Rio Times.

The name Copacabana, according to one version, comes from the Indian phrase kota kahuana (from the Aymara language), which means "view of the lake"; or in honor of the Indian patron goddess of women Kopakawana, There are also versions that the name comes from the Native American phrase copa kaguana (from the Quechua language) “luminous, bright place”.

The street attached to Copacobana Beach is Avenida Atlântica ("Atlantic Street"), built in 1906..

It stretches along the entire Copacobana beach, i.e. four kilometers. Among other things, the street in the last few decades has been the main place of the mass.

The Copacabana area received its development, as already mentioned, only in the 19th century.. Before that, there were small houses of a rural type, as well as a small chapel of Our Lady of Copacabana, built, according to legend, by a Portuguese ship captain, or fisherman.

In the illustration: View of Copacabana Beach and Avenida Atlantica ("Atlantic Street"), running parallel to this beach - on the right side of the picture, in the background; On the right in the middle ground: Forte de Copacabana - low yellowish buildings with red roofs); In the foreground on the left: the cape and the beach of Arpoador (Arpoador), which belongs to the beach of Ipanema.

In the illustration: View of Copacabana Beach and Avenida Atlantica ("Atlantic Street"), running parallel to this beach - on the right side of the picture, in the background;

On the right in the middle ground: Forte de Copacabana - low yellowish buildings with red roofs);

In the foreground on the left: the cape and the beach of Arpoador (Arpoador), which belongs to the beach of Ipanema.

The green spot behind the cape is the Garota de Ipanema park;

On the right side of the photo: Sugar Loaf Mountain is visible in the distance.

In 1892, a tunnel was pierced in the rock, connecting the Copacabana area with the rest of the city, at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. A tram line was put into operation in Copacabana. Thus, the Copacabana beach became easily accessible to the population of the city..

In 1914, just in time for the beginning of World War I, the military fort of Copacabana (Forte de Copacabana) was opened, built on the site of the chapel of Our Lady of Copacabana demolished that year and preserved to this day. (The fort was built in 1908-1919, it is located on the southern end of Copacabana beach. Now there is the Army Museum (Museu Histórico do Exército).

The fort was withdrawn from the defense system in 1987, when, according to the official website of Forte Copacabana fortedecopacabana.com, the entire coastal artillery system of Brazil was closed).

Another historic building adjacent to the Copacabana beach is the Copacabana Palace Hotel.(Address: Avenida Atlântica, no. 1702). It was here that the now-faded glory of the area and the beach began, starting from the time when American stars began to stay in this chic hotel - then a new building in the 1930s, spreading the name of Copacabana around the world. In the 1970s, the hotel even wanted to be demolished, but has now been restored.

Pictured: The Copacabana Palace Hotel on Avenida Atlantica, on the promenade of Capocabana Beach.

On the left you can see Mount Corcovado and the base of the statue of Christ, installed on it.

ill. from the hotel website: copacabanapalace.com.br.

The Copacabana Palace Hotel was built in 1923 to mark the centenary of Brazil's independence from Portugal.(Rio de Janeiro was then the capital of Brazil) with the cooperation of the Brazilian state (which provided tax incentives and the right to open a casino in a hotel) and local entrepreneurs to receive guests of honor.

At its opening, the building was the only high-rise building on the street. For the construction of the hotel, Brazil imported marble and building technology, and faced great difficulties due to the lack of experience in the construction of such structures, due to which the hotel was opened late - a full year after the completion of the celebration of the centenary of independence, and before that - in 1922 even flooded by sea waves.

The peak of the popularity of Copacabana Beach came in the 1930s-1950s. Until then, Flamengo Beach was considered the most popular beach in Rio de Janeiro. Now the once luxurious area of ​​Copacabana, has long been rather degraded, and is trying to get out of decline. As The Rio Times wrote in an article dated July 4, 2013, citing the opinion of a local resident: “A lot has changed in Copacabana in the last two years. better side . There is a noticeable reduction in the number of homeless and poor people, and improvements in street cleaning are also visible. The streets are better lit. Trade has revived, new stores are opening. Local residents hope to improve the quality of life.”

These changes in the city are taking place in connection with the preparation of Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Summer Olympics. The authorities will hold part of the Olympic events right on the beach of Copacabana, writes The Rio Times.

In particular, for beach sports (beach volleyball and beach football), a temporary stadium has already been opened here, and marathon swims and triathletes will be held directly from Copacabana beach (these swims will take place from Copacabana Fort, which we also talked about above).

Botafogo area and beach

Pictured: View of Rio de Janeiro with Sugarloaf Mountain (right), the statue of Christ on Mount Corcovado and Botafogo Beach.

Despite the fact that Botafogo Beach is one of the postcard views of Rio, the water near this beach is heavily polluted.

From the beach of Botafogo opens best view on mountain« sugar loaf » .

However, despite the fact that Butafogo is one of the most common postcard views of Rio with Mt.« sugar loaf» , the waters of the beach are heavily polluted and unsuitable for swimming, like most of the beaches in Guanabara Bay. Some sources call the beach waters of Botafogo one of the most polluted in the entire state of Rio de Janeiro.

Botafogo is home to the Rio de Janeiro Yacht Club, with a mooring for expensive yachts. The beach area has several concert venues, as well as bike and jogging paths.

Adjacent to the beach of Botafogo, the historical district of the same name is considered prestigious and prosperous.

The area is named after João Pereira de Sousa, known as Botafogo, who was the commander of the famous Portuguese galleon "Botafogo" (Portuguese literally "to burn with fire"), considered in the 16th century the most powerful galleon in the world. De Sousa purchased land here in 1590. The area began to develop in the 19th century, representatives of the Brazilian royal family and the aristocracy settled here.

Since 1978, in one of the mansions of the Botafogo district, there has been located, founded in 1953 and the only official Museum of the Indians in Brazil (Museu do Índio. Address: Rua das Palmeiras, 55).

body cultand beach style in Rio

Ipanema Beach, according to the Travel Channel, is considered the beach in Brazil with the sexiest and most beautiful people.

The already mentioned popular site gringo-rio.com, created by a Swede living in Rio de Janeiro for foreigners visiting this city, writes about the cult of the body among the inhabitants of Rio:

“Walking along the Visconde de Piraja street in the Ipanema district, you will quickly notice how many beautiful faces and perfect bodies surround you. But these people weren't born that way! .. Maintaining the body in excellent tone is achieved by working in gyms and visiting the beach.

We can say that the beauty in Rio de Janeiro really has a great value. From an early age, children learn how to move and speak beautifully. And perhaps most importantly, they will learn: how to appreciate the beauty of their own body, and how to take care of it.”

The site further points out that if American tourists, in other words, gringos, come to a Brazilian beach, spread a towel and immediately go for a swim, then Brazilians act differently. A Brazilian girl, having started her visit to the beach by rubbing in a cream for a good safe tan, does not rush into the water, but gives great importance the position of your bikini on the body and the adoption of various poses in order to tan beautifully and evenly. The habit of constantly controlling how they look never leaves the people of Rio, emphasizes gringo-rio.com

In turn, The Rio Times, mentioned in our main review, in its 2014 Bikini and Beachwear Guide for 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, published on 12/24/2013, notes:

“In order to look at home on the beaches of Rio, it’s important to remember one thing: when it comes to swimwear, for both men and women, the more minimalist these swimwear, the better.”

The newspaper writes that for women, regardless of their age, in 2014 (as in previous years), the most socially acceptable swimwear in Rio de Janeiro is the skimpy bikini (known as brazilian bikini), and for men, tight-fitting short swimming trunks zunga. However, only Brazilian male surfers prefer long swim shorts.

For both men and women, the paper also recommends looking at Blue Man, a Brazilian swimwear brand that bills itself as Rio Lifestyle (see below).

What follows is a little about other habits adopted on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro and the characteristics of these beaches, as The Rio Times presents in another of its beach guides for 2014, namely the "Guide on how to spend a day on the beach in Rio” (Holiday Guide for a Day at the Beach in Rio de Janeiro). The guide was also published on 24/12/2013.

The newspaper writes in this article that those who want to sit on the beach in comfort, using sun loungers (cadeiras) and awnings (guardas sol), should turn to tents (barracas) located here at a short distance from each other, which offer all this for rent.

Coconut water is sold on the beaches - agua de coco, biscoito globo - airy salty cassava flour cookies (the recipe for this cookie was born in the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo in 1953, but has become traditional for Rio - this cookie must be tried to feel taste of the city), salgados and empadas - pastries.

Also on the beach you can buy hats and canga (canga) - a multi-colored beach coverlet-shawl, and (important for those who did not take any beach accessories with them), you can buy bikinis and swimming trunks. In the stalls on the embankments you can taste strong Acaipirinha (caipirinha) sugar cane cocktail, reminds The Rio Times.

The newspaper notes in the mentioned guide that representatives of various subcultural groups are grouped around various lifeguard posts on Ipanema beach (see in the main review, another material from the mentioned newspaper, . Note site), without, however, singling out separate subcultural groups on other beaches , with the exception of Arpoador beach (adjacent to Ipanema beach - in fact, part of it), which is considered a beach for surfers.

Newspaper (in our 2014 Guide to How to Spend a Day at the Beach in Rio) calls Copacabana beach "notorious" and "best beaches" are Ipanema and Leblon beaches. The publication calls part of Copacabana beach Leme beach near Mount Moro to Leme (Morro do Leme) "more calm" than Copacabana, noting that Leme beach is popular with local fishermen.

The waters near the Flamengo and Botafogo beaches are called "not clean enough", although the first of these beaches, according to the publication, is "great for sports, with jogging tracks and football pitches" .

For a family holiday, the newspaper recommends Urca Beach(Urca, located in the Gulf of Guanabara, near the Urca mountain of the same name, in a rich area), because. the waves at Urca beach are not so strong, which allows small children to play safely on the beach. The newspaper does not mention other beaches in Rio in its beach guide for 2014.

Prepared by Monitoring site (January 2014);

Flamengo area and beach

The Flamengo area is considered to be the affluent area of ​​Rio de Janeiro.

It is believed that the name comes from the word "Flemish", as the Portuguese called their rivals - the Dutch. Flamengo was the place from which, in 1559, the Dutch attempted to conquer the city from the sea.

According to another version, the name is given in honor of the flamingo birds brought to Brazil from Europe.

Among the attractions of the area is the Eduard Gomez Park (Parque Brigadeiro Eduardo Gomes) built on an artificial embankment, as well as a memorial to the fallen soldiers of the war.

Once Rio de Janeiro's most popular beach, Flamengo Beach has been closed to swimming for the past thirty years due to water pollution. However, since recently, as a result of rehabilitation, with a favorable wave, on some days the beach is also open for swimming.

Leblon area and beach

Leblon is one of the most prestigious and expensive areas Rio de Janeiro, considered the place of residence of millionaires. At the same time, Leblon is considered an area with a cosmopolitan evening and nightlife, full of entertainment upscale, with many bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

The name of the area was in honor of one of the French settlers - the owner of the whaling trade Carlos Leblon, who bought these lands in 1844 from the Portuguese owners. Prior to that, the area consisted of farms and pastures.

Leblon sold the land already in 1854. Gradually, the area again had a few local landowners.

The Leblon area shares with Ipanema the fame of the area with the most expensive real estate in Rio de Janeiro.

At the same time, the unique residential complex Cruzada São Sebastião is located in the area, in which immigrants from the slums live. This resettlement project was carried out in 1954 at the initiative of the leadership of the Catholic Church in Brazil and with the participation of the then President of Brazil, Café Filho.

Leblon beach is considered an extension of Ipanema beach to which it is adjacent.

Ipanema area and beach

The beach and the Ipanema area, on the east side is separated from the Copacabana area by Cape Arpoador(Arpoador, literally "harpoon thrower"). Leblon Beach adjoins Ipanema Beach from the west.

The origin of the name of the beach Ipanema has not too romantic roots.

It is believed that the name Ipanema comes from the Indian phrase (from the Tupi language) upaba nem, which means "river without fish", or "bad water".

Ipanema Beach is characterized by a narrow promenade, in contrast to the wider promenade of Copacabaon, and has never been extended also unlike Copacabana beach on which sand was washed.

The waters of Ipanema Beach are considered cleaner than the waters of Copacabana Beach.(source: The Rio Times), in particular, due to flowing currents.

At the same time washing Ipanema ocean waves quieter compared to other beaches in this area of ​​Rio de Janeirohowever you need to be careful, because. the waves of all the beaches of Rio are insidious.

The popular site gringo-rio.com, created by a Swede living in Rio de Janeiro, generally notes that where the water on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro is calm enough, it is usually too dirty, and therefore if you if you want to swim quietly, then you better go to the pool.

This site writes that despite Rio's inviting harness waves, swimming here is more suitable for good swimmers, and even then not always, so you should pay attention to the signs that limit swimming in certain periods.

In the area of ​​Ipanema beach, the strongest waves are in the area of ​​the mentioned Cape Arpoador. However, there are a lot of surfers there - they are crowded, and there is no place for beginners.

In addition, drug traffickers from not so far away favelas - slums, appear on the beach of surfers in Arpoador, gringo-rio.com notes.

Ipanema and Copacobana. Comparison of beaches and history. Article from a local Brazilian newspaper

Published in Rio de Janeiro, the monthly English-language newspaper The Rio Times writes quite often about the city's beaches, because. Beach style is one of Rio's fetishes. The newspaper even periodically publishes on its pages the so-called. beach guides for foreigners: "Holiday Guide for a Day at the Beach in Rio de Janeiro" and "Guide how to dress for the beach in Rio" (recent guide: Bikini and Beachwear Guide for 2014 in Rio de Janeiro).

« The first beach in Rio de Janeiro, which became famous all over the world, was Copacabana Beach..

In the 1930s this beach has become fashionable among Hollywood movie stars, who began to come here, staying at the new luxury hotel Copacabana Palace Hotel. The presence of celebrities began to attract others.

A few years after the completion of construction in the area, the attraction of Copacabana Beach has only grown. In turn, nearby Ipanema Beach remained in the shadow of Copacabana for most of the 20th century.

Copacabana Beach originally arose in the middle of the most luxurious area (just built at the beginning of the 20th century. Note site), but gradually wealthy people began to move to the Ipanema area. And as a result: the atmosphere of Ipanema beach today can be called more refined than the atmosphere of Copacabana beach.

The latter has now become a haven for the middle class and workers from the suburbs.

So, fame for Ipanema Beach came much later than the fame of Copacabana Beach spread, namely in the early 1960s. , during the military dictatorship in Brazil.

At that time, Ipanema Beach became an alternative meeting place and a stronghold of the opposition. Musicians, artists, activists and members of the cultural elite met both on the beach itself and in neighboring bars and bookstores to discuss and have a good time in friendly company.

In the same way that the construction of the Copacabana Palace Hotel contributed to the worldwide recognition of Copacabana Beach, so the song “Girl from Ipanema” written in the Ipanema quarter by António Carlos Jobim and Vinicious Morais discovered the lifestyle of the inhabitants Ipanema to the rest of the world, and made it popular abroad.

Over time, the territory of Ipanema Beach began to look very heterogeneous due to the allocation of informal zones on it for various subcultural groups.

So around the post number 9 lifeguards on the water, or Posto 9, settled young leftist intellectuals, representatives of bohemians and hippies. In their groups they smoked weed, played music and discussed political events.

The area closer to Posto 8 was occupied by gay men who dared to openly declare their sexual orientation in what was then a very Catholic country under the heel of a military dictatorship,” wrote The Rio Times in April 2009.

And she continued:

“And the far eastern corner of Ipanema beach, this region is known as Arpoador beach, or Posto 7 (near the cape of the same name), where the biggest wave consistently comes, was, quite naturally, chosen by surfers. At the same time, until the end of the 1990s, there were almost no tourists on Arpoador.

The division of Ipanema Beach into zones of various social subcultures continues today, although now you can meet many tourists on the beach, and political disputes are a thing of the past .de Ipanema (eng. The Girl from Ipanema). This song, written in 1962 in the bossa nova style, originally for the comedy "Airship", is considered the most famous Brazilian song in the world. At the same time, this soulful song is distinguished by a rather ordinary text, which speaks of a beautiful girl who is walking to the beach, and who, because of her beauty, wants to declare her love (cm. video songs at the end of the review).

The prototype of the girl appearing in the song was Heloísa Eneida Menezes Paes Pinto, who lived in the Ipanema district, often passed by the local cafe-bar Veloso, where friends and future songwriters spent time - composer António Carlos Jobin (Tom Jobim ) and the poet Vinicius di Morais. Caucasian appearance, brunette Eloise came from a wealthy family, and later became an entrepreneur and model.

Note that the song "The Girl from Ipanema" is performed by a number of singers in the version of "The Guy from Ipanema"(The Boy from Ipanema).

Another interesting fact: in the Ipanema area there is now a park Garota de Ipanema, named after the song. It is located right behind Cape Arpoador.

Prepared by Monitoring Portalostranah.ru (January 2014);

The fact is that Copacabana Beach has lost much of what once made it special and attractive.

The area itself, adjacent to Copacabana Beach, has been in a state of decline for over 40 years. At the same time, the beach, like the Copacabana area, is still distinguished by its beauty, has no analogues in the world, and certainly deserves a visit.

But at the same time, the tourist boom, combined with the extreme poverty of the city, has given rise to many negative consequences here: now Copacabana is a hotbed of prostitution, a haven for dubious personalities and scammers. Sellers of counterfeit goods also thrive here.

In Ipanema, you can also find such sellers and some rabble, but on a very limited scale. Prostitutes in Ipanema are also found, but not so often.

The beach area in Ipanema, unlike the commercial area in Copacabana, is surrounded residential buildings. At the same time, the height of the buildings around Ipanema Beach makes it more pleasing to the eye, and less shaded, and the very location of the beach allows you to enjoy the famous sunsets for most of the year (Although it should be noted that the beach at Copacabana allows you to watch spectacular sunrises).

The beach in Ipanema boasts cleaner coastal waters as well. flowing currents are strong here, and the beach itself is located at a greater distance from the heavily polluted Guanabar Bay (Baía da Guanabara), on which Rio stands.

Let's hope that Ipanema Beach does not fall into the path of degradation, as happened to Copacabana Beach. And, fortunately, we can say that this option is unlikely. Strict restrictions on the construction of real estate in the area of ​​view of Ipanema Beach stop foreign corporations from buying real estate here, and, consequently, from building hotels and other commercial facilities along the beach area.

In conclusion, it should be noted that ipanema beachinferior to the beach of Copacabana and in the cultivation of sports spirit. The number of perfect bodies is especially off scale here around Posto 9 and 10. There are many volleyball and football fields on the beach, and of course a variety of different subcultural groups, as mentioned above. Let's take a look at their locations:

Arpoador - (rescue post) Posto 7 - a place for surfers;

Between Posto 8 and 9 is a gay playground;

Posto 9 - the territory of advanced youth;

Cesar Territory Park Hotel- here you can meet many rich gringos, Americans;

Posto 10 is a territory that was chosen by really very rich people.,

wrote The Rio Times in April 2009.

Ipanema beach.

Ipanema beach. In the far part of the picture is Cape Arpoador with the beach of the same name, which is considered part of the Ipanema beach.

ill. from The Rio Times.

In September 2013, the newspaper mentioned above returned to detailed story about Ipanema beach and the surrounding area, calling Ipanema beach "the iconic and most luxurious beach of the city of Rio de Janeiro". The newspaper pointed out in the mentioned 2013 publication that Ipanema beach is known "as the most beautiful beach in Rio", and residential real estate in the Ipanema quarter adjacent to the beach is the most expensive in the city (2013).

In 2013, Ipanema surpassed the exorbitant prices of neighboring Leblon in real estate prices., which the newspaper explains by the small amount of real estate offered here, due to the small size of the territory of the Ipanema area, but also, of course, by its pleasant features.

Speaking about these pleasant features of the Ipanema quarter, The Rio Times in a 2013 publication noted the variety of restaurants with various cuisines from around the world and the abundance of luxury stores. The area is "one of the most desirable places to live in the city," writes The Rio Times, quoting one local: "Ipanema is incredible unique place, where else in the world can you live in such an international urban environment, and at the same time be a few steps from the beach, forest and incredible mountains". End of quote.

Video:Here's the Boy from Ipanema song mentioned in the review:

or alternative way to view:

Recall that this is a variation of the song about the Ipanema beach in Rio de Janeiro "The Girl from Ipanema" (port. Garota de Ipanema (eng. The Girl from Ipanema). This song, written in 1962 in the bossanova style, is considered the most a world-famous brazilian song, this soulful song has a rather ordinary lyrics, which talks about a beautiful girl who walks to the beach, and who, because of her beauty, wants to declare her love.In this clip, we also see Ipanema beach;

This review was prepared by a site based on materials published in Rio de Janeiro, the monthly English-language newspaper The Rio Times (issues of April 2009, September 2011, and July, September and December 2013); site for foreigners in Rio gringo-rio.com, and other sources.

Most tourists go to Rio de Janeiro for outdoor activities and sports pastime, but no one refuses to soak up its magnificent beaches. At the same time, the beach here can be found for every taste and for any purpose - whether it's playing beach volleyball, learning samba right on the sand, or drinking rum in a beach bungalow.

COPACABANA

Instagram photo by

City beach for the funniest sun worshipers

Atmosphere

No guide to Rio de Janeiro will ignore its most magnificent beach, whose name is known even in other countries - this is Copacabana. Spread out in the shadow of the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain, the beach is the center of activity all year round. When the sun is at its zenith, it seems that all the "cariocas" (locals) flock here - in order to play beach football, sunbathe under the hot rays of the sun or take all the empty seats in bars and cafes. Rocky corner of the eastern part of the beach - Aproador - the most popular place for surfers. Here you can also admire, with a glass of caipirinha in hand, the colorful sunset that changes the face of Rio from day to night.

Do not miss

Indulge in a relaxing atmosphere as you stroll along the mosaic pavement along the Copacabana Palace Hotel. And you can not even resist your desire to sing along to the cheerful songs of Barry Manilow, which are heard here from everywhere in his honor.

How to find?

The beach is located in the area of ​​Rio de Janeiro called Zona Sul.

Where to stay?

Where else, if not in the best hotel on the Golden List - ?!

ILYA GRANDI

Instagram photo by

For complete relaxation in the peace and quiet of an island holiday

Atmosphere

Mountains and jungles, hidden turquoise bays, the island's mild climate... It's hard to imagine that pirates once hid in such a serene place before attacking Spanish ships carrying treasures from America to Europe. Nowadays, the island of Ilha Grande, which, by the way, has no roads, is very popular with tourists. The days here are spent in a relaxing and lazy manner - swaying in hammocks, walking along sandy beach or along the trails inside the jungle, where you will probably not meet a single living soul for long hours.

Do not miss

Visit one of Brazil's most beautiful beaches, the unspoiled López Mendez, which can only be reached by boat. The azure sea and the crescent of the golden sand of the coast will be an excellent backdrop for blissful solitude.

How to find?

Hire a boat from Rio or take a ferry to Vila Abrao on Ilha Grande from Mangaratiba or Angra dos Reis. The boat trip takes about three hours, and the ferry trip takes about an hour. Don't forget to bring cash with you - there are no ATMs on the island.

BUZIOS

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Tropical chic one day drive from Rio de Janeiro

Atmosphere

Ever since Brigitte Bardot dipped her pretty feet into the turquoise waters of Armacão dos Búzios in 1964, this once-small fishing village has gained a lot of popularity among the tourist elite. Today there is even a nightclub of the world famous disco chain Pacha. Buzios was dubbed the "Saint Tropez of Brazil" - not so much for its connection with Brigitte Bardot, but for its special atmosphere of Cote d'Azur beach chic: high-profile guests, an abundance of luxurious cafes on the coast, stripes of golden sand framed rocky mountains.

Do not miss

Be sure to take a stroll along Orla Bardot, a picturesque oceanfront promenade with several statues by the sculptor Christina Motta, including one depicting Brigitte Bardot gazing thoughtfully into the sea.

How to find?

You can get here by car or by bus from Rio, from the Rio Niteroi Bridge to Guanabara Bay scenic road takes about two hours drive.

Where to stay?

PARATY

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A place of quiet deserted beaches and noisy fun bars on the coast

Atmosphere

The Portuguese colonial town of Paraty is a charming corner of a bygone era, the entire territory of which is included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Historically, it was one of Brazil's most important centers for the sugar cane trade, as well as an important outpost in the 18th century maritime communications for the gold trade. Today, this small fishing town is valued for its untouched ancient architecture, charming cobbled streets, bustling cafes and bars that host holidaymakers from Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo for the weekend. But there is something else that lies outside the historic center of the city. These are lush rainforests that go right to the shore, fabulous beaches and 65 idyllic islands scattered around Paraty Bay.

Do not miss

Be sure to take a boat trip to one of the many islands - the area's most beautiful beaches lie out of reach by land. Snorkel in the crystal clear waters off the island.

How to find?

Paraty is located west of Rio de Janeiro, on the Costa Verde (Green Coast), three hours from the city, along the BR-101 coastal highway.

Where to stay?

Hotel Maisons des R?ves Paraty on Rua Dona Geralda 25

CABO FRIO

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Perfect beach for snorkeling, surfing and delicious seafood

Atmosphere

Named for its crystal-clear waters that remain refreshingly cold throughout the year, Cabo Frio is very popular with local "cariocas" Rio vacationers for its excellent surfing and diving conditions. One of the most visited spots here is Praia das Conchas, which is curved in the shape of a seashell (hence its interesting name), where you can enjoy crystal clear waters for diving and snorkeling, as well as excellent seafood dishes - some of the best throughout the area. If you want to watch the surfers, head to the top of the hilly beach of Praia das Dunas. Cabo Frio, whose history dates back to the 1600s, hasn't earned the title of glamorous spot that nearby Buzios has, so you'll definitely spend far less money here.

Do not miss

Explore the neighboring coast of Arraial do Cabo, which has its own selection of stunning beaches, as well as the famous Blue Grotto Cave with its cobalt blue lake.

How to find?

Cabo Frio is a three hour drive from Rio. The easiest way to get here is by bus, but a rental car is the best option to explore the area's many beaches.

IPANEMA

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For a truly upscale holiday

Atmosphere

Another one in the vicinity of Rio de Janeiro immortalized in song is resort area Ipanema, an upscale analogue of Copacabana. The main attraction here is the legendary stretch of white sand beach, located at the foot of Mount Two Brothers. Multicolored motley crowds of vacationers gather here and there, in different corners beach. This is a place where bikinis on the bodies of tanned beauties are simply minimal. By the way, it is here that many trends in modern beach fashion are born, and therefore it is worth buying a designer swimsuit in one of the local boutiques. The surrounding area, including Leblon, is full of chic cocktail bars and restaurants, museums and art galleries.

Do not miss

Sunday hippie fair, officially called the Ipanema Craft and Art Fair.

How to find?

Ipanema Beach is sandwiched between fashionable Leblon and the rocky Cape Aproador, in the southern part of Rio de Janeiro.

Beaches are one of the main attractions of Rio de Janeiro:
Barra da Tijuca, Leblon, Ipanema, Arpoador, Copacabana, Leme, Vermelha, Urca, Botafoga, Flamengo.

Rio de Janeiro is the champion in the number of beaches, some of which are famous all over the world.

The main beaches of Rio are located in the following order along the coast from east to west, to Guanabara Bay: Barra da Tijuca, Leblon, Ipanema, Arpoador, Copacabana, Leme, Vermelha, Urca, Botafogo, Flamengo (all beach names are translated into Portuguese). The length of all the beaches of Rio is about 90 kilometers.

Barra da Tijuca beach Praia Barra da Tijuca

The longest of the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, its length is 18 kilometers. The waves near the shore are quite strong, which allows you to surf and other activities. water sports. The disadvantage of Barra da Tijuca beach is that it is located near a huge favela (Rio de Janeiro slum) and there are many of its representatives on the beach.

Leblon beach (Praia do Leblon)

Photo: Leblon beach in Rio de Janeiro

Leblon is the most prestigious and expensive area of ​​Rio, the beach is the oceanic border of this area. The name "Leblon" comes from the name of Charles Leblon, who once owned land in this area.

The elite layer of the metropolis rests on this beach. Leblon and the next Ipanema beach are located on the same stretch of coastline, but Leblon is quieter and more comfortable than Ipanema, the beach is designed for a more relaxing holiday.

Ipanema Beach (Praia do Ipanema)

Ipanema is another prestigious area and the prestigious beach of Rio de Janeiro. There are a lot of young people here, politicians and local bohemia are sunbathing on the beach. Compared to the nearby Copacabana beach, Ipanema has fewer disadvantaged crowds and more local population.

In the photo: a section for gays and lesbians on Ipanema beach in Rio de Janeiro

Ipanema Beach has a section for gays and lesbians - a Pride flag is set in this section. The section is located near Rua Farme de Amoedo, a street where Rio's gay nightlife is bustling.

Local gays are especially careful about the beauty of their bodies, many of them are muscular and pumped up, they are called “barbies”. According to the Ipanema section for gays and lesbians, it is one of the ten best beaches in the world of its kind.

Arpoador beach (Praia do Arpoador)

In the photo: Arpoador beach in Rio de Janeiro

Located on a promontory between the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana. The rocky coast has waves sufficient for surfing. This beach is also popular with fishermen, where you can buy fresh catch from them.

Arpoador is considered the best place in Rio de Janeiro to watch sunsets. In the evening, romantics gather on the beach and contemplate the sunset.

The left side of the Arpoador beach is called “Devil's Beach” (some sources indicate that “Devil's Beach” is the old name of Arpoador), this section offers a panoramic view of Corcovado Mountain, Copacabana Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain.

In the photo: sunset from Arpoador beach in Rio de Janeiro

Copacabana beach (Praia de Copacabana)

One of the main attractions of Rio de Janeiro and the most recognizable stretch of the Brazilian coast. On Copacabana - an eternal holiday,

Leme beach (Praia do Leme)

Leme is located on the same stretch of coast as Copacabana, Copacabana passes to the right, and a small mountain is the left border of the beach Morro do Leme , from the name of which the name of the beach comes. Many families and locals rest on the beach, it is somewhat quieter than Copacabana, but also quite lively. Beach soccer is popular here.

Vermelha beach (Praia Vermelha)

In the photo: Vermelha beach in Rio de Janeiro

Praia Vermelha means "red beach" - the name arose from the reddish tint of the sand on this stretch of coast, which looks like a contrast compared to other beaches in Rio, where the sand is white. On this beach there are no waves sufficient for surfing, people just sunbathe and swim here.

Urca Beach (Praia da Urca)

Located in Guanabara Bay, at the base of Mount Urca. This is a very small beach, its length is only 100 meters. The beach is mainly visited by residents of the Urca area. The water on this beach is not very clean, there are more sunbathing and sports than swimming.

Botafogo beach (Praia de Botafogo)

The beach is used more for sunbathing than swimming, as well as for hiking along the coast - Botafogu offers panoramic views of the sights of Rio de Janeiro: the statue of Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay.

Flamengo Beach (Praia do Flamengo)

Flamengo is a small beach, the water is not very clean, the local population goes in for sports on the beach. It also offers panoramic views of Guanabara Bay and Sugarloaf Mountain.

photo of Arpoador beach from the site:www.picosdesurf.com.br

sunset photo on Arpoador beach from the site:jigsawsays.jigsaw-london.com

photo of Vermelha beach from the site:

When you hear the name Rio de Janeiro, the imagination immediately draws long beaches and blue water. Rio de Janeiro boasts many beaches located right in the city. There are more than a dozen beaches in Rio, there are large and world-famous, and there are small, barely noticeable, sandwiched between rocks.

All the beaches of Rio de Janeiro conditionally divided into 2 types: calm, washed by the waters of the Gulf of Guanabara (Ipanema, Leblon, San Conrado, Barra da Tijuca and Recreio), and beaches with big waves, washed by the Atlantic (Copacabana, Red Beach (Praia Vermelha), Flamengo) .

The best beaches in Rio de Janeiro

Copacabana beach

Copacabana (Praia de Copacabana) is the most famous, most visited beach in Latin America. Copacabana is located in the eponymous district of Rio in the south of the city, it is often called the "Princess of the Sea". Copacabana is the most recognizable beach in the world, along with - Copacabana - is the symbol of Rio. This is the widest beach in Rio, it has a length of about 5 kilometers, framed by an undulating cobblestone promenade, it originates from Leme (Leme) and ends at Fort Copacabana. The beach is located along Av. Atlantica, where many expensive hotels, hotels and restaurants are concentrated. Hundreds and thousands of athletes come here to play sports: running, horizontal bars, bicycles. You can take a surfboard on the beach and immediately take a surf lesson, although the waves here are small, but this service is in demand.

Hotels near Copacabana beach:

How to get to Copacabana. You can get to Copacabana by reaching the Rio metro station: Cardeal Arcoverde, Siqueira Campos or Cantalago, then you have to walk a couple of blocks to the beach.

Red Beach

Red Beach (Praia Vermelha) is located next to Sugar Loaf Mountain, by the way, you can also climb this mountain from here. This is a very small beach, sandwiched between mountains. It owes its name to the color of its sand - it is red. Despite the fact that this beach is washed by the waters of the bay, the water here is very clean and calm, it is better to come early in the morning, on weekends and holidays, there are a lot of people on the beach.

How to get to Red Beach. Red Beach is located in the elite area of ​​Urca. You can get here by buses No. 107, 512. Buses No. 511 and 513 run from the Botafogo metro station. You can also take a taxi to the beach.

Ipanema beach

Ipanema - the elite beach of the city, has a length of about 2 km, from the Canal do Jardim Alah channel to the Arpoador Stone. Ipanema is one of the most expensive areas of the city, the most expensive and luxurious hotels and restaurants are located here. On the beach, the game "altinho" is very popular - volleyball with legs, head, chest (any part of the body, except for the hands).

Hotels near Ipanema Beach:

How to get to Ipanema Beach. We go to the Rio Ipanema / Ozorio metro station, then you can walk to the beach or take a bus to do this, go to R. Prudente de Morais street and along it along the entire beach you can take buses No. 426, 432, 435, 539. .

Leblon beach

In fact, Leblon beach is a continuation of Ipanema, it stretches from the Alaha channel to the rocks. On the rocks, by the way, there is a lookout Mirante do Leblon. All that is true of Ipanema is also true of Leblon - a very clean and pleasant beach. On the western side of the beach you can see the 2 brothers rock.

Hotels near Leblon beach:

How to get to Leblon beach. We also act here: we get to the Rio Ipanema / Ozorio metro station, then go to R. Prudente de Morais street and along it along the entire beach you can take buses No. 426, 432, 435, 539. .

San Conrado beach

San Conrado beach (S?o Conrado) - another name for the beach - Gavea, it is located already in the suburbs, in the southern part, west of Leblon. Stretches from Av. Niemeyer to the tunnel. On one side is the rock Two Brothers. The beach has big waves (the beach overlooks the Atlantic Ocean) and few people, a good option for surfing.

Hotels near São Conrado beach:

How to get to São Conrado beach. The beach is formally located in the city, but in fact it is already located outside the city and it is better to take a taxi or transport if you want to suffer. We get to the Rio Ipanema / Ozorio metro station, then go to R. Prudente de Morais street and take bus number 432 or 435, then get to the Av. Visconde. Then you need to walk to Av. Padre Leonel Franca and there take the minibus number 555 or 309, it will already go to the beach. You can exit either at the beginning of the beach near the shopping mall or drive a little further to the center of the beach. Another bus goes directly to Sant Conrad, to do this, walk from the metro to Av. Vieira Souto, there we take the bus number 2335 and go to San Conrado. As we see the beach, we go out, it is very close to the beach.

Barra da Tijuca beach

Barra da Tijuca beach is the longest beach, its length is 14 km. Locals call it simply "Barra". It is located even further west than San Contrado. It's very high waves, the beach is rather for surfing or for a photo, swimming here is unpleasant, and dangerous. The infrastructure here is much less than on Copacabana / Ipanema.

Hotels near Barra da Tijuca beach:

How to get to Barra da Tijuca beach. The beach is even further than San Conrado, so I recommend taking a taxi or transport. We get to the Rio Ipanema / Ozorio metro station, then walk to Av. Vieira Souto (this is practically on Ipanema beach), there we take bus number 2335 and go to San Conrada (stop Auto Estrada Lagoa Barra 450), get off and transfer to minibus number 309 and go to Barra da Tijuca. The beach is a long minibus rides along the promenade, you can get out wherever you want.

Flamengo beach

Flamengo is a small beach (about 1.5 km) between the Botafogo area and Centro. The beach is located in the bay, it is always quiet here and there are no waves. You can see well from the beach. Housing near the beach is much cheaper than in popular places.

Hotels near Flamengo beach:

How to get to Flamengo beach. Get to the Rio metro stations: Largo do Machado, Catete, then walk to the beach on foot, 500 meters.

Botafogo beach

This is a very tiny beach (about 600 meters) located in Botafogo Bay. The beach is not very beautiful, full of yachts, but you can swim.

Hotels near Botafogo beach:

How to get to Botafogo beach. Get to Rio metro stations: Botafogo then walk to the beach, 500 meters.

Safety on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro

I will say a little about safety on the beaches. The most dangerous beaches are the most popular: Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon. The further away from them, the safer.

Within Rio, the safest are: Red Beach, Barra and San Conrado.

The danger on the beaches of Rio is not the ocean with its huge waves, but, oddly enough, people. Being on the beach there is a big chance to be robbed and neither cool hotels nearby nor many people will help and do not frighten criminals.

Most often it is a petty robbery, you are surrounded by a crowd of teenagers aged 12-15, they can threaten you with a knife or a gun (it is very easy to get a gun in Rio) and they will probably demand a camera, watch, wallet, jewelry from you.

The conclusion follows from the above: do not take a lot of money with you (take as much as you need), do not take jewelry and watches, do not shine with a camera and generally behave more modestly. Then the chances of being robbed decrease.

The second option could be this: You are being tracked on the beach and led, and when you move away from the beach a couple of blocks in deserted place, you are similarly robbed. Pay attention, while on the beach, along the promenade, you can see teenagers closely following the vacationers, they do not swim, do not have fun, it seems that they are just loitering around. No, not just - these are the observers. Here you should not go far from the beach deep into the city, it is better to be close to people and it is advisable to take a taxi.

You should not come to the beach too early or too late when there are few people on the beach.