With over 4,600 miles of beautiful beaches, Brazil offers many options for enjoying the warm South American sun and sand. Brazil beaches are an important aspect of Brazil culture and lifestyle—after all, it’s no coincidence there’s a bikini cut named after the country. Visiting a few of the best beaches in Brazil is definitely a must-do when visiting this beautiful country.

Ipanema

Grab a caipirinha, maybe your surfboard and enjoy this popular Rio de Janeiro beach. This beach frequents the top of most lists of Brazil tourist attractions, so be prepared for crowds. Ipanema’s stretch of sand is walking distance from a wide range of fine-dining restaurants and upscale boutiques. This area is conveniently easy to navigate as streets are lined up in a grid parallel to the beach. If you’re into fitness, Ipanema is the place for you. Juice shops and high-end gyms are on every corner, keeping everyone’s sun-kissed bodies in shape for the beach. Be sure to stay for the magnificent sunset at the end of your day as the sun dips behind the ocean waves. Don’t let your night stop there. Take your fun inland to the many cafes, clubs and bars that provide nightly entertainment and activity, often accompanied by live music and dancing.

Pedro do Arpoador

Another Rio beach, located between Ipanema and Copacabana, Pedro do Arpoador will always be more hidden and less crowded than its neighboring beaches. Its famous rock formations offer 360 degree views of the sunrises and sunsets over the ocean. Surfers also enjoy this beach for its large waves in the Rio area. If you happen to get caught in Rio during a sea storm, head to the Rocks of Arpoador for a good view. Proceed with caution as you are putting yourself at risk of getting extremely wet or even wiped out by the massive crashing waves.

Porto de Galinhas

Located on Brazil’s northeast coast, in the municipality of Ipojuca, Pernambuco, Porto de Galinhas is famous for its blue waters. Hit this beach during low tide to relax in the natural swimming pools formed by 79 F water trapped by the surrounding reefs. Use this window to swim, feed the colorful fish or just float your cares away. With its close proximity to the equator, you can expect the breezy summer Brazil weather to last year round with minimal change. If looking for an upscale luxury experience, stay at Nannai, one of the best beach resorts in Brazil.  

Jericoacoara

For an isolated beach getaway, Jericoacoara is located beside a picturesque rustic fishing village. Often referred to as “Jeri”, it’s best known for the freshwater aquamarine lagoons and sloping sandy dunes. It is also recognized as a Brazilian national park. The drive to Jericoacoara is known to be a little tricky. The last 45 minutes of the drive is off-road through many sand dunes. Make sure to bring some cash in the local currency as there are no ATMs located in Jericoacoara. While many restaurants and shops might accept card, local activities and excursions most always will only accept cash. The sunny, breezy Brazil climate allows for great wind and kite surfing, especially from October to February. Jericoacoara is one of the only places in the world you can witness an ‘Emerald Sunset’. This is a phenomenon that occurs when the edge of the sun sinks below the horizon and turns a bright green color for just a second. It is also recommended that you stay past dark on a clear night and witness the stunning moon and stars in full, as street lights are not allowed near this specific beach. Make sure to book your Jericoacoara accommodations in advance as there are a limited amount of hostels in the area.

Espelho

Located in Trancoso, Brazil’s “Best Undiscovered Beach Town”, Espelho is the star of Trancoso’s 15 miles of white sand beaches and clear waters. Visit at high tide and fall in love with the colors of the sea and surrounding cliffs. Visit at low tide for amazing shallow tide pools to explore and enjoy. Espelho means gigantic mirror and the beach shows true to its name most at low tide. If you are lucky enough to be visiting during a full moon, take a look at its bright reflection over the calm water. Keep an eye out for the many turtles that also enjoy the beach’s stillness. Head to the cliffs for the best spot to enjoy the daily sunsets. For budgets on the smaller side, Etnia Pousada, is a boutique hotel that won’t break the bank during your stay in Trancoso. For some fresh eats, Sushi Da Mel  is a popular option with limited spots available, so make sure to book in advance. Your time at Espelho will be guaranteed to be peaceful as cars are not allowed nearby due to the beach being located in an Environmental Protection Area.

Lagoinha do Leste

For those looking to truly avoid all tourists, Lagoinha do Leste is truly the best beach in Brazil for you. Located in the southern end of Santa Catarina Island, it can often feel like a private beach as it is only accessible by boat or by a one hour hiking trail filled with diverse flora and fauna. This beach is surrounded by dense vegetation and white dunes, making it very secluded. It is one of Brazil’s “best-kept secrets” and natives hope it stays that way. Be sure to take food and drinking water with you as there are no vendors or restaurants in the surrounding area.

Taipus de Fora

If looking for some great snorkeling and diving, Taipus de Fora at Bahia is a great option. Best at low tide, the coral reefs create great pools for watching the vast marine life. It also serves as a picture backdrop with its line of coconut palm trees and crystal blue ocean water paired with white sand. The surrounding village of Taipus has grown in the past few years and now offers many shops, inns and restaurants for visiting tourists.

No matter who you might be traveling with, or what part of Brazil’s coast you’re visiting, the waters and sunsets in this country will not disappoint your beach day. Don’t forget to pack a few swimsuits and get ready to take advantage of all the beauty Brazil’s beaches offer.

Post written by: Kirsten Cusack