The FIFA World Cup 2014 will see plenty of soccer-hungry fans flooding into Brazil this summer – but where will they kick back and relax? Luckily for everyone, there are plenty of beautiful beaches scattered along the coast, from the famous strips of golden sand to peaceful powdery coves. Read ahead for our selection of the best beaches in Brazil.
Jericoacoara, Ceará
Originally cultivated as a small and inconspicuous fishing village, Jericoacoara was designated a national park in 2002 to help preserve its natural splendor. Overcome the sand dunes and you’ll reach a hidden paradise of clear tropical water, golden sand and hammocks. Climb the sand dunes and watch the sunset each evening and then party down on the beach.
Praia dos Carneiros, Pernambuco
The family-owned Praia dos Carneiros is neither crowded nor spoiled by tourism – absolute serenity reigns. A moderate entry fee guarantees you access to pristine white sands that slope into tranquil, warm shallows ideal for bathing.
Ipanema, Zona Sul, Rio de Janeiro
You can’t miss the beauty at Ipanema – at least according to the famous Bossa Nova song. This Brazilian landmark made the country famous, celebrated for its heady mix of golden tanned bodies, beautiful shoreline and baking hot sun.
Alter do Chão, Pará
Venture a little farther for a more remote experience, cruising up the Amazon to the stunning beach at Alter do Chão. Bordered by a dense tropical rainforest, this beach is essentially a lone bank of vivid white sand that runs into crystal-clear,turquoise waters. We call that paradise – and so will you.
Praia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha
Often heralded as the very best of Brazil’s beaches, Praia do Sancho is accessible only via boat, rock scrambling or ladders fixed onto the steep cliff wall. It may be hard to reach but the combination of clear shimmering waters and fine golden sand is magical, and the tropical depths are worth trying to explore.
Trindade, Paraty, Rio de Janeiro
For something a bit more unusual try Trindade, where the lush rainforest of the Costa Verde infringes upon the sand. There’s plenty here to keep the laziest beach bum active, from deep-sea diving to kayaking and surfing, or you could simply relax amid the sculpted rock formations dotted along the shore.
Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco
Porto de Galinhas is a perennial winner of “Best Beach in Brazil” and it’s easy to see why. This expansive stretch attracts beach-goers of every caliber – from tourists en masse to independent wanderers – primarily for its stunning reef pools, which are great for snorkeling and diving.
Taipu de Fora, Bahia
The golden stretch of coastline along Bahia is blessed with numerous picturesque beaches, of which Taipu de Fora is one. Low tide here exposes vivid turquoise reef pools, where intrepid snorkelers can observe multiple varieties of tropical fish.
Featured image © cocogelado/iStock/Thinkstock
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
