Copacabana Beach

Copacabana is the beach along Avenida Atlântica, in the South Zone, between Leme and the Copacabana Fort. It is considered one of the most famous beaches in the world and hosts big events, from beach soccer and volleyball championships to concerts and New Year’s Eve, according to Wikipedia.

The wave promenade

The black-and-white Portuguese stone promenade is Copacabana’s symbol and inspired the waves in this guide. The wave pattern has followed the avenue since the early 20th century. In the 1970s, when Avenida Atlântica was widened, landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx updated the design: the waves, once perpendicular to the beach, became parallel to it. The building side gained abstract mosaics by Burle Marx himself.

How the beach works

Locals find their way by the postos, the numbered lifeguard towers along the sand. Agreeing to meet “at Posto 5” is the easiest way to find someone. Along the beachfront there are kiosks, a bike lane, outdoor gym equipment and volleyball courts.

The Fort and Leme

At the southern end, next to Arpoador, stands the Copacabana Fort. At the northern end, Leme is calmer. For sunset, walk a few minutes to Arpoador.

Getting there

The metro has stations in Copacabana such as Cardeal Arcoverde, Siqueira Campos and Cantagalo, part of the MetrôRio network. See getting around Rio.

Tips

• Bring a sarong and some cash or a card: many vendors accept Pix and cards.
• At night, stay on the busy promenade and avoid the dark sand.
• Drink plenty of water: the sun is strong all year.

Compare with other beaches in Rio’s beaches.