Soak up the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema

Rio's beaches aren't just for swimming, they're the city's living room, and they're free. Copacabana's grand sweep with its wave-patterned promenade, and the trendier Ipanema next door, are where Rio comes to play: football and volleyball on the sand, vendors selling fresh coconuts and grilled cheese, and the famous sunset from the Arpoador rock between the two. Spend a day people-watching, swimming and soaking up the carioca beach culture for the price of a coconut. We'll point you to the best stretches, the sunset spots, and how to enjoy the beach safely.