
1. Copacabana

Numerous kiosks line the beach, so plan to grab a cold drink and watch the revelry unfold. As night falls, do be careful. The neighborhood can be a bit seedy and there is crime in the area, so plan to stay off the sands and stick to the well-lit promenade.
2. Ipanema

The waterfront action barely ceases here. Be prepared to encounter volleyball games, soccer and water sports like surfing and wakeboarding. The most vital thing you’ll want to do at Ipanema is to soak it all in: the swath of sands, the 2 mountains towering above the end of the beach, the gorgeous locals, the hustle and bustle of beach action. Make like a local and grab a cold beer while you stretch out on the sand; vendors stroll the beach incessantly proffering the cold stuff.
3. Barra da Tijuca Beach
Novices can stop by one of the many surf schools along the beach to sign up for a lesson should they be moved to join the throngs, rather than watch from the sandy shores. And should your appetite kick in, don’t be alarmed; many kiosks line the beach selling food and coconut water.
4. Prainha Beach

There are a handful of kiosks selling food and drinks. To reach Prainha, it’s easiest for tourists to take a taxi from their hotel as it’s not easy to reach via public transportation. Have your concierge schedule a taxi in advance with a fixed rate.
5. Praia Vermelha

The beach lies in a cove, so the sheltered area sees typically calm water. A small park sits behind the beach. Plan to visit one of the kiosks here for an inexpensive bite to eat, and relax as you overlook the beach and surrounding mountains. Again, the best way to reach Vermelha is via taxi; organize the trip through your hotel.