From Copacabana to Ipanema and fabulous lesser-known destinations, these are the must-visit beaches in Brazil
Brazil is home to many of the best beaches in Latin America. Rio de Janeiro is, perhaps, the best capital city on the planet for beach culture. The iconic beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema have inspired many famous moments in pop culture, including The Girl from Ipanema. These beaches are associated with romance and adventure.
From the iconic beaches of the Rio to ultra-exclusive beaches with strict visitor limits, here’s our guide to Brazil’s best beaches.
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Copacabana Beach – Rio de Janeiro
No list of Brazilian beaches would be complete without Copacabana, one of the most iconic beaches in the world. Stretching over four kilometers along Rio’s coastline, it’s a must-visit for LGBTQ+ travelers. The gay-friendly section, located around Posto 6 and near Rua Farme de Amoedo, is packed with sunbathers, locals, and tourists alike. This is where you’ll find a buzzing atmosphere, beachside kiosks serving caipirinhas and locals who are almost painfully good looking.
For a luxurious experience at Copacabana Beach, stay at a five-star beachfront hotel like the Belmond Copacabana Palace or Fairmont Rio de Janeiro, where you can enjoy exclusive beach services and rooftop pools. Book a private yacht charter for a cruise along Rio’s coastline, or take a VIP tour of landmarks like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, with the option of a helicopter ride for breathtaking views of the city.
Ipanema Beach – Rio de Janeiro
Just next to Copacabana, Ipanema Beach is the go-to spot for Rio’s stylish and LGBTQ+ crowd. The area around Posto 9 is considered the most gay-popular section of the beach, drawing a mix of locals, international travelers, and even a few celebrities. The energy here is vibrant, with beachgoers playing volleyball, sipping drinks, and enjoying the gorgeous backdrop of the Morro Dois Irmãos mountains. As the sun sets, many people move to nearby gay bars in the Ipanema neighborhood.
For a luxury experience at Ipanema Beach, stay at Fasano Rio de Janeiro, where a rooftop infinity pool gives you sweeping ocean views. Enjoy VIP beach service with private loungers, or take a private yacht tour along Rio’s coastline. Indulge in fine dining at Zaza Bistro Tropical or Michelin-starred Oro. If you’d like to explore some nightlife, experience Rio’s LGBTQ+ scene at The Week or sip cocktails at Térèze’s rooftop bar overlooking the city.
BaÃa do Sancho at Fernando de Noronha – Pernambuco
Considered Brazil’s most exclusive beach destination, Fernando de Noronha is a UNESCO-protected archipelago with strict visitor limits, ensuring a more luxury experience in contrast to Brazil’s more crowded beaches. BaÃa do Sancho—voted one of the world’s best beaches—provides a secluded, breathtaking setting.
BaÃa do Sancho is located on the remote Fernando de Noronha archipelago, which is only accessible by plane. Direct flights are available from Recife (1h) and Natal (1h15). Due to environmental restrictions, the number of visitors is limited, making this one of Brazil’s most exclusive beach destinations. We can arrange your transfers to ensure a seamless trip to this most exclusive of beaches.
Praia Mole – Florianópolis
Florianópolis, often called “Brazil’s LGBTQ+ capital,” is famous for its stunning beaches. Praia Mole is the most popular gay beach in the area, attracting a mix of locals, surfers, and international visitors. The laid-back yet social vibe makes it a great place to meet people, and the nearby beach bars offer plenty of opportunities for drinks and mingling with locals. Just a short drive away is Lagoa da Conceição, home to many of the island’s best LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. Quite a contrast to the exclusive BaÃa do Sancho but a great choice if you want to a livelier atmosphere.
Ilha Grande – Rio de Janeiro State
If you’re seeking a bit of peace and quiet when you’re in Rio, Ilha Grande is a breathtaking island off the coast with crystal-clear waters and green landscapes. While there isn’t a specific “gay beach,” the island is known for being a welcoming and relaxed destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. The main beaches, Lopes Mendes and Praia do Aventureiro, has secluded spots where you can enjoy nature without the large crowds of Rio’s urban beaches.
Praia Brava – Florianópolis
Praia Brava in Florianópolis is one of the most exclusive beach destinations in Brazil, attracting a mix of wealthy locals, international visitors, and luxury travelers. Perched between green hills and the Atlantic Ocean, the beach is known for its golden sands, powerful waves, and a sophisticated beach scene. Unlike some of the more crowded tourist spots in Florianópolis, Praia Brava maintains a more private and high-end atmosphere, with luxurious beachfront villas, exclusive beach clubs, and gourmet dining options. High-end resorts and boutique hotels line the coast, many with infinity pools, spa services, and private balconies overlooking the ocean. Water sports such as surfing and paragliding are popular here, while private yacht charters provide an elegant way to explore the surrounding coastline.
Florianópolis is known for being one of Brazil’s most LGBTQ+-friendly cities, and Praia Brava reflects that inclusivity while catering to a luxury crowd. While Praia Brava itself is not explicitly a gay beach, it is popular with LGBTQ+ travelers looking for a more refined and stylish beach experience away from the party crowds.
Ready to start planning your luxury trip to Brazil? Get in touch and we’ll craft the perfect itinerary for you, taking in all the best beaches in Brazil, from Copacabana to Ipanema.
