Beautiful, huge, and well-kept beach. Copacabana is a must-see place if you're visiting Rio. Didn't experience any criminal activities, but there are a few things to be aware of and cautious if you're a tourist. Don't wear expensive, shiny jewelry or take too many valuable things with you. Documents and money are safer if you have a pouch under your clothes, not visible to the public. Hotel staff advised to have some change ($10-20 worth of Real ) in your pucket in case you're a victim of a robbery (they won't believe that you have no money at all, and might stab you with a knife). On the beach are lots of sales scams going on, negotiating before agreeing with anything. Those who are selling drinks out of a wheel away carts and offer you a chair and umbrella, will try to charge you $120 (yes, dollars) for use of the chair and umbrella at the end, not mentioning it at the beginning. Not to mention what they are trying to charge for a drink ($30 for an alcohol free Pinacolada). Better ask for a price before you accept anything and pay for it as soon as service is received. Be aware of your surroundings when taking pictures or have your cellphone out. They are fast beach runners that can snitch your belongings out of your hands and run away with (they are pro runners in the sand and faster than you are, have years of practice). Police presence is here and there, which can give you some feeling of security. The view and experience are absolutely worth it. Just use some common sense and be aware of your surroundings, and you'll have a great time. I had a rental car for 3 days and drove all around the city without any issues. Driving is not as bad as they say, just don't leave any visible belongings inside the car while parking. I also would recommend bringing a dash camera if you're renting a car. I will return one...
Read moreCopacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro is everything you imagine it to be — and more! The moment you step onto the soft golden sand, you can feel the vibrant energy that makes this beach world-famous. The stunning curve of the coastline, framed by lush green hills and the rhythmic sound of the Atlantic waves, creates a picture-perfect scene that feels straight out of a postcard.
What makes Copacabana so special is the unique blend of relaxation and excitement. In the mornings, it’s peaceful and ideal for a refreshing swim or a quiet walk along the promenade. As the day goes on, the beach comes alive with locals playing volleyball and football, vendors selling refreshing coconut water, and musicians adding a joyful samba rhythm to the air.
The iconic black-and-white wave-patterned boardwalk is another highlight — perfect for strolling, cycling, or simply soaking in the view of the sea and city skyline. There are plenty of beachfront cafés and kiosks where you can enjoy delicious Brazilian snacks and fresh juices while watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Copacabana Beach isn’t just a place — it’s an experience of Rio’s soul: warm, lively, and unforgettable. Whether you go to relax, meet people, or simply admire the breathtaking scenery, it’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
Highly recommended for anyone visiting Rio — Copacabana is pure...
Read moreMore than a beautiful beach, this famous sandy place is an institution, it´s probably one of the first names that pops up into your mind when someone says the word Rio De Janeiro. Don't get me wrong, Copacabana is still one of the best of its kind, with its splendid promenade full of kiosks, its unique thematic floor, its half-moon shape, its large and long beach, its famous buildings overlooking the ocean, but, as I already wrote in another review, I think it's far from being Rio´s best one.
Due to its location, close to the Guanabara Bay, the water can be very dirty and sometimes it's so bad, that authorities forbid people to enter the water. On the other hand the sand is always clean.
An activity that I always enjoyed doing in Copacabana is watching people playing Footvolley (the Brazilian version of volleyball, where the contenders hit the ball with their feet and heads).
A special mention goes to the new year´s eve in Copa (as the locals call it). It's one of the world´s most spectacular celebration, with the best fireworks, in a super nice atmosphere, where people from all over the world gather together at the beach to say goodbye to the old year. Plus it's always a pleasure to spend winter in a warm place.
Not the best option but a MUST on your Rio´s...
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