Top 15 most beautiful beaches in Rio de Janeiro2026 ranking

Before discovering this beach, the longest in Rio de Janeiro (18 km) with some Brazilian friends, I had never heard of it. It is located after Tijuca Park and the Rocinha favela, so it is a bit out of the way to the west. And yet, it is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the city. This beach is perfectly suited for surfers because of its big waves. It is also much quieter than Copacabana or Ipanema, but it is not ideal for young children...

Praia Vermelha or "Red Beach" is located at the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro. Before or after taking the cable car up to that wonderful viewpoint, you can jump in for a quick swim. But this tiny beach gets crowded fast. It reminds me a bit of the small beach right in the heart of Marseille. Personally, I find Ipanema and Copacabana much more pleasant.

In my opinion, Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro is prettier than Copacabana, which is the more famous one. It has a bike and pedestrian path running along it, and there are more trees than in Copacabana, which is located right next to a very busy road. In Ipanema, the surrounding restaurants and bars are also classier, and the neighborhood in general has a better crowd. Go for a walk at the Garota de Ipanema rock for an unbeatable view of both beaches.

This is the ideal spot to catch the sunset in Rio. Most of the beaches face East, but this one faces due South and the Punta do Arpoador even offers a few rocks facing West. Just a heads up, expect a massive crowd (unless it is raining, I guess).

After the short hike at Mount Urca and the crowds at Sugarloaf Mountain, what could be better than a refreshing dip in the water? Or just a little snack break under the red umbrellas while sipping on an acai (an Amazonian purple berry sorbet).

Praia Vermelha is a nice little beach in the Urca neighborhood, right near Praca General Tiburcio. It faces Sugarloaf Mountain. It is across from the city of Niteroi. The beach is small, almost isolated, but very cool. If you are going to Sugarloaf Mountain, you might as well stop by the beach on the way back.

I prefer Barra da Tijuca because there are fewer people, fewer street vendors, and the view is nicer. After a walk in front of the Copacabana Palace in the morning it is still pleasant, but nothing crazy.

Barra da Tijuca beach is, for me, the most beautiful beach in Rio de Janeiro. It is less polluted and less overwhelming, and it is at the end of the line 4 subway, so it is easy to get to. I really love going there when I have a little extra time. Plus, there is a beautiful view of Pedra da Gavea. You can also rent jet skis in the inlets that lead to the Tijuca Lagoon.