Inspiring the famous song “Girl from Ipanema” by Vinícius de Moraes and Tom Jobim, Ipanema Beach is an iconic stretch of sand in Rio de Janeiro. It sprawls between Jardim de Alah and Arpoador to the south of the city centre and is renowned for attracting a diversity of subcultures.

Mingle with local cariocas (Rio residents) in the Leblon area of Ipanema Beach or head to Cemetério dos Elefantes where hippies and artists congregate. Posto 10 is always alive with beach soccer and volleyball games, while Posto 9 is where the “beautiful people” go to see and be seen.

Soak up the Atlantic Ocean views while strolling along Ipanema’s beachfront promenade, which offers plenty of places to grab drinks and snacks throughout the day. Stay until late to watch the sun setting behind Dois Irmãos Hill, a sight so beautiful it garners a round of applause from those gathered on Ipanema Beach.

Getting there

Ipanema Beach is a five-minute walk from the Nossa Senhora da Paz metro station, which connects along Rio de Janeiro’s Orange line. Tom Jobim International Airport is 30 minutes away.