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Brazil’s Best Beaches: Our Top Picks

Brazil is synonymous with stunning coastlines, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters. Stretching over 7,000 km, the Brazilian coastline offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a sports adventure, culture, or simply a place to relax in the sun. Here are some of our favourite Brazilian beaches, each offering something a little bit different.

Ilhabela – Island Adventures and Whale Watching

Ilhabela, meaning “beautiful island,” is located off the northern coast of São Paulo state. Unlike typical mainland beaches, Ilhabela offers a mix of natural beauty, adventure sports, and wildlife experiences. Known particularly for sailing and windsurfing, it’s a hotspot for water-sport enthusiasts.

The island’s rugged terrain is dotted with waterfalls, tropical forests, and hidden coves, offering plenty of options to explore both land and sea. Whale watching is another unique draw, with sightings of humpback whales during their migration season. Ilhabela’s combination of adventure, nature, and pristine beaches makes it a standout destination for those seeking more than a traditional sunbathing experience.

Make sure to stop by the Irish-owned Lupe Tropical while you’re there.

Patacho – Summer All Year Round

Patacho Beach is often hailed as one of Brazil’s most beautiful stretches of sand, tucked away in Alagoas. Unlike the busier urban beaches, Patacho feels pristine and almost untouched, with calm, turquoise waters and soft white sand lined by coconut palms. It’s perfect for relaxing, swimming, and taking in the natural scenery, with gentle, shallow waves, ideal for families or anyone looking for tranquillity. The area offers a mix of charming pousadas and boutique hotels, giving travellers a cosy, immersive experience. Patacho is especially popular during the summer months, and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy quiet moments by the ocean away from the crowds.

Praia do Forte – Carnaval on the Beach

Bahia is celebrated worldwide for its music, food, and Carnaval festivities in Salvador, but its beaches are equally exceptional. Stretching along the northeastern coast of Brazil, Bahia offers a mix of vibrant culture and natural beauty that you won’t find anywhere else.

Our favourite, Praia do Forte, is a beach that combines calm, warm waters with an authentic Bahian feel. It’s perfect for swimming and relaxing to the rhythm of local life. Bahia’s coastline is dotted with quaint fishing villages, palm trees, and colourful colonial architecture, giving visitors both beaches and unique cultural experiences. From exploring marine reserves to tasting traditional Bahian cuisine, Bahia’s beaches are a feast for the senses.

Itaguaré – Where the River Meets the Ocean

Itaguaré is São Paulo state’s last fully natural beach, untouched by large-scale development. What makes it extraordinary is the unique meeting of river and ocean waters, creating a calm, scenic environment perfect for nature lovers.

Unlike busier beaches, Itaguaré offers solitude and the chance to truly disconnect. The surrounding landscape of the Atlantic Forest, mangroves, and small trails allows for hiking, birdwatching, and surfing. For anyone looking to escape the crowds and experience Brazil’s coastal beauty in its purest form, Itaguaré is a must-visit destination.

Ipanema – Iconic Rio

No list of Brazilian beaches would be complete without Ipanema. Situated in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Ipanema was immortalised from the iconic bossa nova song “The Girl from Ipanema”.

The beach is divided into different sections, each catering to a distinct crowd, from families to surfers. Ipanema is also home to a lively social scene, with beachside kiosks serving drinks and snacks, live music, and stunning sunset views over the Dois Irmãos mountains. Beyond the sun and sand, Ipanema is part of a stretch of beaches across the city that also includes the famous Copacabana.

Travel Tips

Timing: Brazil’s beach season runs roughly from December to March, coinciding with summer. However, regions like São Miguel enjoy warm weather most of the year, making them perfect for off-season travel. Bahia’s Carnival (usually February or March) is a must-see but plan for crowds.

Packing: Light clothing, swimwear, and sun protection are essential. A hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen will keep you comfortable. If you plan to explore nature trails or waterfalls (like in Ilhabela), bring sturdy footwear.

Transport & Access: Many of these beaches require some planning to reach. Ilhabela is an island accessed by ferry, while Patacho and Itaguaré are best reached by car. Bahia’s Praia do Forte is accessible via Salvador, with buses and taxis connecting the town to the coastline. In Rio, Ipanema is easily reachable by public transport, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Safety: Stick to designated swimming areas and be mindful of tides, currents, and surf conditions. In more remote locations, it’s wise to go with a guide or local expert.