Known for its mix of lush rainforest and secluded coves, Ilha Grande deserves its renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and is widely considered to have some of the best beaches in Brazil. Situated between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the island’s picture-perfect beaches feature fine white sands, a beautiful jade-coloured ocean and unspoilt scenery, providing a stark contrast to these bustling cities.
Lopes Mendes Beach is one of the most popular around the island, with the stunning mountainous backdrop and long stretches of sand, which make Ilha Grande a perfect choice for those wanting a mix of beach and wilderness.
Originally a quiet fishing village, Búzios has evolved into a lively chic beach resort, with over 20 beaches and a range of shops, bars, and restaurants. With large waves perfect for surfing and watersports, Geribá Beach is among the most popular sprawling over 2km.
Easily accessible by road from Rio de Janeiro, it provides a perfect option for those wanting to escape the city for a spot of relaxation on some of Brazil's best beaches.
With over five miles of scenic trails along red clay cliffs backed by lush vegetation, Praia Espelho in Trancoso is consistently considered one of Brazil's best beaches, situated within easy reach of Porto Seguro airport. Also known as Mirror Beach, due to the reflection of the sky perfectly hitting the natural warm swimming pools created by reefs at low tide, it is the perfect place to explore, swim or simply switch off and unwind.
An hour’s drive from Salvador International Airport lies the laidback village of Praia do Forte, named after the 1556 fort built on the shores to protect the city from invasion. Surrounded by miles of deserted beach, this area is popular with wildlife enthusiasts due to the big focus on sea turtle and marine conservation.
The untouched white sands are backed by protected marshlands, whilst the village centre boasts quaint restaurants and shops, making it an ideal destination to combine with lively Salvador.
Arguably one of the world’s most famous beaches, and for good reason too, Copacabana Beach and its striking geometric promenade stretches along Rio de Janeiro’s skyline, with skyscrapers sprawling upwards into the mountains. The beach is one of many in Rio and offers a chance to soak in the sunshine without having to travel out of the city.
Locals often flock on weekends, but with white sands continuing for 4km, there is enough space for everyone to enjoy some beach time during an otherwise packed trip to this energetic city.
Located in the north of Brazil around four hours from Fortaleza, Jericoacoara is the best beach in Brazil for wind and kite surfing.
The sweeping golden sand dunes, impressive rock formations and idyllic fishing village have been ranked in the ‘Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches Worldwide’ by The Washington Post, and the area offers a range of boutique properties to choose from for the perfect retreat.
Renowned for snorkelling and diving opportunities, the archipelago 350km off the coast of Brazil features a variety of remote beaches and jagged coastlines within a protected marine park and Brazil’s first national park.
Baio do Sancho on the main island was voted the ‘Best Beach in the World’ on TripAdvisor and has won countless other awards. Visitor numbers to the island are restricted to preserve the natural beauty, therefore providing a sense of tranquillity and paradise, perfect to round off a busy Brazil itinerary.
For more inspiration, take a look at our Brazil Holidays pages.
Written by Charlie Baxter
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