The Official Guide to Brazil’s Best Beaches

As a Brazilian-American who has spent the last four years exploring Brazil’s beaches, I can tell you firsthand that the untouched, tropical paradises you dream of do, in fact, exist. Better yet, many of Brazil’s most stunning beaches have yet to be widely discovered by international travelers, especially those from outside South America.

The lack of mass tourism has preserved their charm, giving you a chance to experience Brazil’s true coastal beauty without the boombox-clad tourists. On this list you’ll find beaches ideal for adventurous travelers, honeymooners and families alike—pretty much anyone seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer both scenic landscapes and a deeper connection with local culture.

While most flock to iconic spots like Copacabana and Ipanema, I am here to tell you about 10 other beaches that are also worth booking for a trip. Many of them are tucked away in small fishing villages or natural reserves, offering an authentic taste of Brazilian life away from the more commercialized areas—and nowadays, that’s precisely the kind of beach vacation we need.

For years, I had read that Praia da Baía do Sancho was one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and when I finally saw it for myself, I completely understood why. Located on the secluded island of Fernando de Noronha—which is worth a visit in and of itself—the beach is a brilliant representation of what draws visitors to Brazil. The untouched cove is home to turquoise waters and towering cliffs draped in wild vegetation. Known as one of the best spots in Brazil to experience marine life, the island’s beaches, including Baía do Sancho, are home to dolphins, sea turtles and vibrant tropical fish. Getting there is part of the adventure; you descend a wooden ladder carved into giant rocks, literally passing through a boulder to reach the beach. It might sound a bit intimidating, but it’s actually very safe and well-organized, making it all the more rewarding once you arrive.

This was the highlight of a weekend trip to Florianópolis, an island in southern Brazil home to over 100 beaches. While the island itself has made it onto the tourist radar, Lagoinha do Leste still feels like a well-kept secret—and for good reason. Tucked away in a natural cove, this beach is only accessible after a scenic hike through the forest, offering visitors a glimpse of Brazil’s tropical terrain. Once you reach the beach, take a short detour to a nearby viewpoint to witness the expansive shoreline from above—truly a breathtaking sight. And don’t worry, ice-cold coconuts are sold at the bottom as a reward.

When I first visited Ilha Grande, I was immediately transported back to my backpacking days, when life was all about fresh fish and good vibes on a remote Thai island. Just off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande is one of Brazil’s original backpacker havens, frozen in a slower, more humble time. Here, Wi-Fi feels like a luxury and power outages are part of the charm. Yet the hostels now share the sand with beautiful beachfront hotels, like Bonito Paraiso, a charming inn situated on its very own beach. Lopes Mendes is the island’s crown jewel—an expansive stretch of golden sand only accessible by boat, surrounded by lush green mountains. The beach is long enough that the further you walk, the more secluded it becomes, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy one of the best beaches without many people around.

Located in the southern part of Bahia, a state renowned for its vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture, Caraíva is a charming, car-free village where time seems to slow down. Reaching Caraíva involves a short but scenic journey by car and boat, enhancing its allure as a tranquil escape. The best part? There’s virtually no cell service around the island, unless connected to WiFi. Once there, you’ll discover Praia da Barra, where the Caraíva River meets the Atlantic Ocean, offering the rare opportunity to choose between swimming in freshwater or saltwater—or both. A local specialty is the caipirinha served inside a cacao fruit, a delightful twist on the traditional Brazilian cocktail.

Nestled in a picturesque fishing village, Praia do Cachadaço is the place to go for fresh fish and cold beers with your feet in the sand. Here you’ll find a couple of beachfront restaurants serving up delicious local delicacies, to be enjoyed before, after, or during your sunbathing routine. You can relax by the water and enjoy the laid-back vibe, or take a quick 5-minute boat ride to the nearby natural pools where the clear and shallow waters are ideal for people of all ages. I took my mom here for the first time and it was a magical experience—her first time visiting natural pools, and it couldn’t have been more special.

Baía dos Golfinhos translates to the Bay of Dolphins, and that’s exactly what it’s known for. If you’re lucky enough to visit at the right time, you’ll be treated to dolphins swimming gracefully in the crystal-clear waters. The stunning bay is unique because it’s only accessible during low tide by walking along the sand. When the tide rises, waves crash against the cliffs, making it difficult—sometimes impossible—to reach the beach, depending on the season. The best time to visit is during the summer, when the waters are calm and visibility is at its peak. There’s nothing quite like the tranquility of this beach, watching the dolphins play, knowing you’re in one of the most beautiful spots in Brazil.

Praia de Itamambuca is a beloved destination for both surfers and nature enthusiasts. With over 2 km of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind or try water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The calm waters near the shore make it great for families, while the waves further out are ideal for surfers seeking a challenge. Visitors often return for the good vibes and relaxed atmosphere, making it a spot that feels like home. For a more secluded experience, head to the left side of the beach, where there are no buildings—just pure, untouched nature. Easily accessible by car or public transport from Ubatuba, Itamambuca offers a peaceful escape that remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Copacabana Beach, it’s hard to imagine that a neighborhood like Urca exists so nearby. But it does, and it’s there that you’ll find one of the most pristine beaches in the city. Nestled at the foot of the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, Praia Vermelha is a decidedly local beach. Its reddish sand contrasts with the emerald green waters and dramatic rock formations, making it a popular spot for photographers. If you’re looking for something quieter than Rio’s more famous beaches, Praia Vermelha offers a refreshing escape from all the noise. At the end of the day, head over to the seawall (known affectionately as the Mureta da Urca), grab a freshly fried cheese or shrimp pastel and enjoy the sunset by the bay.

If there’s one place at the top of my Rio bucket list, it’s the beach at Pontal do Atalaia. Often referred to as the “Caribbean of Brazil”, this coastal area features incredibly clear turquoise waters and powdery white sands. It’s a postcard-perfect setting—with a long wooden staircase leading awe-struck visitors down to the sand. The waters are always crystal clear and calm, perfect for snorkeling. And while the water temperature can be cooler than other Brazilian beaches, it’s still comfortable enough for a dip.

Praia do Patachó is nestled in a famous region of Brazil known for stunning beaches and vibrant New Year’s parties. This particular beach is a serene stretch of sand perfect for those looking to unwind in paradise. The beach is known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and natural pools, ideal for a relaxing swim or snorkeling. There are plenty of beachfront hotels worthy of a honeymoon or family vacation alike, with a backdrop made up of coconut trees and sand dunes. The state’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty ensures visitors can experience unspoiled landscapes and a beautifully peaceful atmosphere.