Prainha Beach

Prainha Beach, one of Rio’s best kept secrets, consists of a secluded bay, forested hills and beach restaurants with fresh fish and seafood on the menu. Located on the westernmost tip of the Barra da Tijuca district, Prainha Beach is part of a protected rain forest area and boasts 700 meters of sandy white beach. But despite being a lot less crowded than the more famous stretches of sand within the city and having a reputation for being almost deserted on weekdays, Prainha Beach can get busy on weekends as well.
The crescent shaped beach is framed on both sides by steep cliffs that create strong currents with high waves. Accordingly, Prainha Beach is popular with professional surfers, who flock here to elegantly ride the three meter high waves. Along the shores, locals play Frescobol, a combination of beach volleyball and table tennis, and sip refreshing açai and fruit juices. Tourists, however, are rarely seen in these parts and it is possible to experience the true Brazilian beach life surrounded only by Cariocas. 

Practical Info

Prainha Beach is located about 35 kilometers west of Ipanema. It’s easy to get there by car and there is plenty of parking available. Alternatively, you can also take the surf bus that ferries people back and forth between the city center and the beach every three hours. It’s best to arrive earlier in the day, as the hill behind the beach starts casting a shadow over the bay in the afternoon.