Arpoador

Arpoador is a small beach and rock formation in the Ipanema neighborhood, between Praia do Diabo and Ipanema Beach. The beach is about 500 meters long and is known as the surfers’ beach because of its waves, according to Wikipedia.

The applauded sunset

In the late afternoon, the Arpoador rock fills with people watching the sun sink into the sea and, for part of the year, behind Dois Irmãos. When the sun disappears, the crowd often applauds. It is one of the simplest and most memorable experiences in Rio, and it is free.

Sunrise

Early in the morning Arpoador is also beautiful, with light falling on Ipanema and Leblon and far fewer people.

Safety

• Stay away from the edge of the rock, especially when the sea is rough.
• When leaving after dark, walk with the crowd along busy streets to the metro or a taxi.
• In the water, waves can be strong: it is a surf beach, not a calm swimming beach.

Getting there

General Osório metro station is a few minutes away on foot. From the end of Copacabana, past the Fort, the walk is short too.

Fit Arpoador into the 3-day itinerary.