When you visit Rio, set a day aside to spend on the beach. Vendors wander along the sand selling fresh coconut, beer and cachaca – Brazil’s national drink and an essential component of the caipirinha cocktail. Although Ipanema Beach is less busy than adjacent Copacabana, it is an excellent place to sip a drink and people watch. Ipanema is one of the most chic – and therefore most expensive – places in Brazil.Watch the groups of people playing football, volleyball, or footvolley – a Brazilian combination of the two games. At the end of the day, settle down to watch the dazzling sunset which is often applauded by the crowds on Ipanema Beach during the summer months.On a clear day, the sparkling blue water contrasts with the soft white sand creating a picturesque paradise. After heavy rain the water can sometimes appear a slightly murkier green, but the sea is always clean here due to the heavy swells. The swells also make swimming dangerous – look out for the lifeguard towers that line the beach and only swim in the designated areas.Sunday is a great day to visit Ipanema Beach, when the road nearest to the beach is closed to cars, and overtaken by runners, walkers, bikers and skaters. There is also the hippie fair, with bohemian artists and craftspeople offering their creations. The streets behind the beach are laid out in a grid formation and are easy to navigate. Rua Vinicius De Morais offers the ultimate in Brazilian fashion, with plenty of shops and boutiques tempting visitors from the beach. There are also lots of botequims – or bodegas – offering cold drinks, food and an unrivalled view of the passing crowds. A popular choice is Garota de Ipanema Bar, reported to be the place where the famous 60s song "The Girl from Ipanema” was written. Prices in Ipanema match the area’s reputation, so wander a little further from the beach if you are on a tight budget.During Rio’s carnival, usually around February, why not join the 50,000 visitors that celebrate on Ipanema Beach. You will need to book early - along with New Year’s Eve this is the highest of Brazil’s peak season. Ipanema Beach is a 30-minute taxi or bus journey from Rio and is situated between Leblon and Arpoador.
Ipanema Beach
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Tours & day trips
See all 51 activitiesOpens in new tabFull Day in Rio - Christ the Redeemer by Van, Sugarloaf, City Tour & BBQ
Food, drink & nightlife
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Cruises & boat tours
See all 8 activitiesOpens in new tabArraial do Cabo with Boat Tour
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See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabTropical Carnival Show - Brazilian Rhythms and Roots
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See all 3 activitiesOpens in new tabMuseum of Tomorrow, AquaRio & Olympic Boulevard
Reviews of Ipanema Beach
5/5 - Excellent
Its a must, they are singing the song everywhere. A good place to surf if that's your thing. Beautiful. Don't forget your sunblock. Hire a bike or a scooter to help you along.
5/5 - Excellent
But don't leave anything unattended, especially at the weekend.
Popular places to visit
Posto 9
You can find out about the history of Rio de Janeiro with a stop at Posto 9. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.
Leblon Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Leblon Beach during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? Discover the area's sunsets and mountain views.
Rua Farme de Amoedo
During your trip to Rio de Janeiro, you can do some window-shopping at Rua Farme de Amoedo. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Hippie Fair
Admire colorful folk art, stock up on Brazilian clothing and souvenirs, and savor some of Rio’s original fast food at one of the world’s largest open-air markets.
Garden of Allah
Explore the great outdoors at Garden of Allah, a lovely green space in Rio de Janeiro. Stroll along the area's beaches or simply enjoy its bars.
Arpoador Beach
Considered the birthplace of Brazilian surfing, this small beach is also one of the most popular places to catch Rio de Janeiro’s spectacular sunsets.