July 2, 2021
Brazil boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with large sandy coastlines of more than 4,500 miles. If you want to immerse yourself in turquoise waters, sunbathe on sandy beaches and go back home with a guaranteed suntan that will be the envy of your friends, then head to Brazil. A dream holiday awaits you,
Beaches in Rio and around
Copacabana Beach
Naturally Copacabana Beach will instantly come to mind. Considered one of the most popular Brazilian beaches where the fame of this 2.5-mile stretch of the Atlantic Ocean has spread worldwide. Expect to find crowds year-round, however, getting to interact with locals is part of the fun and an opportunity of learning the culture of the Brazilians. You may even spot the odd celebrity soaking up the sun. Be prepared to join in a beach volleyball or football match, the two favourite sports in this part of the world. If you are at a loose end on New Year’s Eve than head this way, to the biggest bash on the planet.
Ipanema Beach
Another hot spot in Rio, made famous by the hit song of Astrud Gilberto “The Girl from Ipanema”. One of the best beaches in Brazil with stunning views of the twin peaks of The Two Brothers creating a beautiful backdrop. Situated in a rich neighbourhood of Rio, Ipanema boasts authentic restaurants, boutiques and snazzy bars, where price tags from very expensive to reasonable can be found. Take a stroll down the street to window shop then relax over lunch or enjoy a cocktail.
Lopes Mendes Beach
Nestled between two mountains, Morro dos Castelhanis to the left and Morro do Ferreira to the right is Lopes Mendes Beach, located in Ilha Grande. Vogue magazine voted it one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. An ideal location for families, great to enjoy swimming or surfing. This area is very under-developed with no restaurants or bars. Pack a large picnic hamper with lots of cold drinks and enough sunblock to last the day.
Praia do Forno
This beach lies in a beautiful cove in Arraial do Cabo and is known as the Beach of Angels. Views are spectacular if you walk down the trail, otherwise access is by boat-ride. A paradise for families, scuba divers or snorkellers. The gorgeous beach with its azure waters and abundant marine life is a haven for water-world enthusiasts. A large variety of seafood is available especially lobsters and oysters if you’re feeling fancy.
Best Beaches in Bahia, Brazil
Praia do Espelho
There is a vast difference between beaches in Rio and those in the Bahia region. Clear blue sea and white sands make up this paradise which is almost picture perfect in its beauty. Swaying coconut palms against a backdrop of cliffs and pools is a haven for scuba-divers, snorkellers and swimmers. Coral reefs and the un-touched beauty of the sea world makes it a very worth-while experience. Deck chairs and beach equipment are facilities that are provided in some areas of the beach. Sea-food lovers will appreciate the wide selection of fresh crustacean.
Caraiva
Bahia is a state bursting with fishing villages and stunning beaches of which Caraiva is one. Still relatively unknown and where no vehicles are allowed so you can enjoy the sound of the waves lapping against the shore. The only means of transport in Caraiva is by mules, so you can enjoy their braying while riding one. As with most Brazilian beach resorts, seafood is a must, especially here.
Taipus de Fora
Located on the Marau Peninsula in Bahia, Taipus de Fora is renowned for its spectacular snorkeling. When the tide is low, reef pools remain filled with bright tropical fish, truly a sight to behold. The swaying palms, the turquoise sea and the sands makes this an ideal vacation spot. Less common but just as enjoyable it’s a good spot to pitch a tent, if you enjoy camping. There are also many fairly priced accommodations to be found.
Porto da Barra, Salvador Bahia
Salvador the capital of Bahia boasts Porto da Barra. For stunning sunsets over the ocean don’t forget your camera! Rather popular over the weekend for locals looking to get away from the bustle of the capital. This region has a lot of history to offer with 16th Century forts that still stand as sentinels overlooking the beach. The nearby fish markets offer an array of the daily catch. Take in a game of beach volleyball as the sun sets. As for food choice – nothing better here than seafood of course! Don’t leave the Bahia region without trying Moqueca Baiana, a seafood stew that originates from this region. The fresh fish and coconut milk creaminess will have you asking for more.
Ilha de Tinhare, Cairu
The island of Tinhare in Cairu, Bahia boast several amazing beaches. These beaches can be rather crowded due to tourists, so if you prefer quieter beaches then head to Natal or Lopes Mendes. Still worth a short stop. Surfing is especially great here, also for those wishing to explore rock pools or go diving then this is for you. A great choice of restaurants and bars can be found to enjoy a cool drink in the evenings or a nice meal.
Beaches in Recife and Northern Brazil
Praia do Sancho
Voted as Brazil’s best beach Praia do Sancho is found off the tropical island of Fernando de Noronha. The greenery and rocky cliffs make this a picturesque setting against the azure waters and sandy shores. The beach can be accessed by ladders down the cliff or by stone steps. This trail can be slightly precarious but it’s well worth the effort for the spectacular vista of emerald waters. Alternatively, one can hire a boat, but care must be taken not to damage the precious coral.
Porto de Galinhas
Located to the south of Recife, Porto de Galinhas is one of the top holiday beaches of Brazil and appears regularly in tour/travel magazines. Great place for swimming and snorkelling- a myriad of tropical fish can be found in the reef pools of pristine waters. The 11-mile beach makes this an ideal location to find accommodation as well as local restaurants and eateries.
Jericoacoara
Giant dunes make Jericoacoara one of the top destinations for kiteboarding, windsurfing and sandboarding. Beach lovers will find this area a paradise and as its part of a national park, its beauty is preserved.
Lencois Maranhenses
An incredible destination that is made up of sparkling white sands. The name literally translates as “bedsheets of Marahao”. During the rainy season from June to September, water is collected in the sand dunes. During the dry season crystal lagoons are formed which are perfect for swimming.
Praia dos Carneiros
A calm beach North of Recife, close to Tamandare, where long walks can be taken in tranquillity along a palm lined beach. A good beach to either rent or book a boat tour, well worth the price tag. Perhaps the perfect spot to end your holiday is a day or two of relaxation here.
Praia de Pipa
A fishing village in Rio Grande do Norte is a hotspot for locals from Recife looking for a weekend break. Still undiscovered by international tourists, though this is slowly changing. There is a little bit of everything around here as the scenery is made up of steep pinks cliffs, forests, sand, and sea make this a beautiful spot.Water sports are popular and dolphin spotting is a must-do activity. There are a few vibrant bars and cafes to be found.
Beaches in São Paulo and Southern Brazil
Praia do Campeche
Situated south of Florianopolis in Santa Catarina State in Southern Brazil. The crystal waters contrast against the lush green vegetation. The sea gets rough at times, but lifeguards are always available. If small fish in colourful coral isn’t enough for you then this is definitely the place for you, a great place to watch whales in the summer. Again, local seafood is highly recommended.
Santo Beach
An hour’s drive from Sao Paulo, Santo Beach is 3.5 mile stretch of sand with the largest harbour in Latin America. After relaxing on the beach, a good idea would be to visit the Brazilian Coffee Museum which is not too far away or the aquarium (although we would recommend you explore the surrounding areas for a more immersive experience)
Quarta Praia
This translates to « fourth » beach and is in the island town of Morro de Sao Paulo. This is a good venue if you want to escape the busier beaches. Long stretches of white sands and swaying palms line the shore.
Should you have any questions or require further information on best beach vacations in Brazil then please get in touch with us. We will be happy to guide you through all these beaches and pick the best one for your personalized tour.