Prainha

Known as Brazil's "little" beach, this remote paradise requires a 40-minute car trip from Ipanema Beach but is well worth the jaunt. Prainha's magnificent shoreline features a backdrop of rolling hills and verdant rainforest. Surfers covet the killer waves, and beachgoers marvel at the gorgeous sunsets. The shore empties out during the weekdays (particularly during Brazil's winter months), making Prainha a great alternative to local-laden Grumari Beach. However, swimmers and surfers take note: Currents are strong, and there are no lifeguards.

Recent travelers recommend visiting the beach during the afternoon to catch the dazzling early sunset. One TripAdvisor user says, "Remote, one hour drive from the south zone, but worth visiting. This is where surfers go. The sun sets early here […] So don't bother coming after 4 p.m."

We advise visiting the beach in the off-season, when crowds start to thin. Favored by tourists and locals alike, Prainha boasts plenty of sunbathing spots but lacks nearby restaurants. You may want to bring snacks and bottled water with you, especially if you plan on staying a while.