Brazil’s 10 Best Beaches

If there’s one thing Brazil is famous for, it’s the country’s spectacular beaches and breathtaking landscape. While Brazil hosts waterfalls, rainforests, and rare wildlife, this South American country is also home to some of the best beaches in the world, some famed by pop culture and music. Below are Brazil’s top ten beaches that definitely deserve a visit.
1. Copacabana
A trip to Brazil wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the famous and luxurious Copacabana beach. Relive the song in the heart of the bustling former capital of Rio de Janeiro and stroll the Portuguese inspired boardwalk with stunning views of the sparkling ocean. Chances are, you’ll be able to find a number of activities perfect for sand and surf, and it will be easy to take part in many famous Brazilian cultural festivals including Carnival.
2. Ipanema
Ipanema Beach has been titled one of the best beaches in Brazil in an array of publications, time and time again. It shares a couple similarities with popular Copacabana being also located in vibrant Rio, and is also made famous by a song (The Girl from Ipanema). There’s plenty to do at this popular tourist spot including cafes, galleries and bars to explore. And if all else fails, the waves are always inviting.
3. Santos Beach
Located in the capital of the country, and home to the longest beach garden in the world is Santos Beach. This former Sao Paulo seaport and coffee industry now attracts loads of visitors each year making for a crowded experience during peak season. Santos Beach isn’t only beautiful, but it also offers an array of activities including Brazil’s first public aquarium and the historical coffee stock exchange.
4. Baia do Sancho
With crystal clear waters, pristine soft sand, and breathtaking views, it’s easy to see why this beach is known to be one of the top ten in the world. Baia do Sancho beach is able to hold on to its extraordinary natural beauty thanks to its somewhat secluded location on the Fernando de Noronha archipelago. This quiet beach makes it easy to relax away from the more crowded city beaches, and a visit to Baia de Sancho is the perfect time to snorkel.
5. Lopes Mendes
Lopes Mendes beach in Ilha Grande offers a unique beach experience tucked away off the Rio de Janeiro coast. Because there are no roads leading here, this surfing hotspot requires that visitors be dropped off by boat before wandering through the rainforest to get to this secluded scene. You won’t only get views of Brazil’s famed rainforest, but special endangered animals like the brown howler monkey as well.
6. Ilha de Tinharé
For some much needed undisturbed relaxation, head to the remote island of Tinhare. You won’t find any cars in this relaxed area, but this delightful little town has walking trails and beachside villas for basking in tranquility. For a village to only experience electricity in the 1980s, it’s easy to adapt to a simpler way of life.
7. Praia de Forno
Praia de Forno is just one escape of dozens of hidden beaches in the historical region of Buzios. Once a place where pirates roamed, this former fishing village sits in one of the most beautiful places in the world. You’ll need more than a map to help you find Praia de Forno off an unknown trail, but if you do miss it, there are a number of nearby beaches to explore.
8. Praia de Campeche
Surfers and other watersport lovers are known for flocking to the beaches of Florianopolis, especially Praia de Campeche. Located on the southeast coast of the island of Santa Catarina sits one of the best beaches in the neighborhood. Visitors won’t be disappointed by rushing waves and inviting sands, and if boredom strikes, the nearby rainforest is waiting to be discovered.
9. Jericoacoara
Jericoacoara Beach (also known as Jeri Beach) is the perfect place to see the rare ‘green flash’ sunset. Adventure to northern Brazil and wander through sandy dunes before arriving at the town of Jericoacoara. A journey through the alluring sand dunes is the only way to get to this area and is the best place to see gorgeous sunsets at the perfectly named Sunset Dune. Spend a day feeling your toes in the sand before exploring the town’s culinary scene and nightlife.
10. Praia de Pipa
Praia de Pipa in Brazil’s northeast is a surfer and sea life lover’s delight. Glass-like waters make it easy to see the dolphins and turtles that roam nearby, away from the hustle and bustle of busier cities. While quieter than Brazil’s main cities, Praia de Pipa and the town of Pipa still offer an array of hotels and nightlife for travelers to indulge in. This famous beach is perfect for those looking to dig deeper into Brazil’s aweing landscape.