Happened to have an afternoon free after meetings in Rio to go to the beach on what was the coldest day of the year so far - 24 degrees. Great for a Canadian, but too cold for most Brazilians, so there was hardly anyone there. Very high surf, too dangerous to swim, but fantastic to look at - it was... More

Leblon. Ahh. It's def the hipster part of Ipanema beach. Go to "post 9-9,5" from the tower to the palms on the right and enjoy the smell of success, money and herbs. This is where a lot of young, fun and creative people hang out and have a good time.

Being a native from Rio, this is not my favorite beach, head to Ipanema Beach for trendy or Leme beach for a quiter place.

Closest to my hostel. It has a nice view of the Ilhas das Palmas, Cagarras, Comprida and of the wonderfull Morro Dois Irmãos.

To decompress after a day of business in Rio, there's nothing like drinking a draft Brahma beer, a "chopp" (pronounced SHOW-pee for those who have never had the pleasure of spending some time in Brazil), and eating a few "bolinhas de bacalhau", cod fish balls, which taste way better than that sounds, particularly with a few drops of homemade malagueta... More

We have to walk less to get to seaside. During summer that's an advantage because sometimes you can burn your feet! Temperatures are very high at this time of the year. Less people, a lit bit more exclusive.

Another South zone's beach, on the same shoreline of Copacabana and Ipanema. Just be alert against purse or everything-else-you-have snatchers. Like in every touristic place, there are loads and loads of them. Keep your camera tight in your hand and not around your neck. Keep your backpack or bag in the front of your body and not on your back,... More

Beautiful beach, some people were responsible for setting up umbrellas and chairs for us, very helpful, other passing by selling drinks and accessories, very high waves though. It's a must on a sunny day to just sit, relax and enjoy Rio's beauty.

What I loved? Warm turquoise water, beautiful views of the 2 brother mountains, strong, but small waves great for body surfing, freshly made, muddled-on-the spot-caipirinha's or a very refreshing green coconut to drink available for sale right on the beach, great people watching, chairs and umbrellas available for rent ($5/day). I wish I had spent more time here.