- Type
- Beach
- Area
- South Zone
- Free entry
- Yes
- Good for kids
- Yes
- Requires a hike or uphill walk
- No
Ipanema is the neighborhood and beach between Arpoador and the Jardim de Alah canal, where Leblon begins. The neighborhood was founded in 1894, according to Wikipedia, and became world famous through bossa nova. At the western end, Dois Irmãos mountain and Pedra da Gávea frame every photo.
How the beach works
As in Copacabana, the beachfront is divided by lifeguard postos. Each stretch has its own crowd: families, athletes, tourists and groups of friends. The Avenida Vieira Souto promenade has a bike lane and kiosks.
Sunset
In the late afternoon, many people head to the Arpoador rock to watch the sun go down, behind Dois Irmãos for part of the year. It is one of the city’s best-loved traditions.
Getting there
The metro has stations in Ipanema, such as General Osório, next to Arpoador, and Nossa Senhora da Paz. See getting around Rio.
Combine it with
- The Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon is a few blocks away.
- Ipanema is one of the most popular places to stay: see pros and cons in where to stay.
Practical tips
- Stay near a lifeguard post to swim.
- Save the late afternoon for sunset at Arpoador.
- Bring only what you need to the beach.
Frequently asked questions
Where does Ipanema end and Leblon begin?
At the Jardim de Alah canal, which connects the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon to the sea.
Which metro station serves Ipanema?
General Osório, near Arpoador, and Nossa Senhora da Paz, in the middle of the neighborhood, among others in the MetrôRio network.
