Ipanema and Leblon Beach – Rio de Janiero, Brazil
What is It - For over a century, Rio de Janiero has been known for its casual beach life and considered a romantic destination for celebrities and travelers from around the world. Residents from neighborhoods across the city initially flocked to Copacabana Beach or stayed at elegant destinations like the Palace Hotel, to enjoy swimming, beach cafes and celebrations including the annual New Year Eve’s party. Today, Copacabana remains popular and worth a walk through by visitors although the area can seem somewhat hectic and sketchy in places.
“Beachgoers seeking sun lounging, beach sports, family fun or social life will find people with similar interests gathered at numbered posts or stations”
In recent years, the beach area considered to be the most desirable by discerning locals and tourists is Ipanema Beach and the adjoining Leblon Beach. These two beaches run along the southern coast for two miles in a westerly direction from the Arpoador rocks. They are framed by the beautiful hills of Morro Dois Irmaos in the background. Several things make the area enjoyable and extraordinary. First, the beach has some of Rio’s cleanest sands and various activity centers have developed at regular intervals on the beach. Beachgoers seeking sun lounging, beach sports, family fun or social life will find people with similar interests gathered at numbered posts or stations. Second, the streets running parallel to the beach are full of upscale cafes, restaurants, music clubs and boutique shopping areas. This provides a casual ambience which dates back to the 1960s when the bossa nova hit “The Girl from Ipanema” and a bohemian style became popular worldwide. Third, there is a wide walkway running alongside the beach and traffic is not very intense so it is easy to walk along and see the sites and people of the area. On Sundays, the entire frontage road is closed to traffic. Finally, crime is generally less prevalent in the Ipanema and Leblon neighborhoods and one feels comfortable walking between the beach and the nearby stores and cafes.
Interesting Facts - The beachfront promenade gives the area energy and local flavor. Juice bars abound along all of Rio’s beaches. It is great to cool off with a huge cup of healthy açai juice or another of the many fruit and liquid concoctions that are so popular in Brazil. The waves and undertow can be rough on occasion so following local advice is always helpful.
When to Go – Rio is in the tropics. The most popular times for visiting the city are between December and March when the city’s major festivals of Carnival and Mardi Gras also take place. However, it is usually hot and humid with showers during those months. So, if you want excitement, adventure, and crowds, staying at Ipanema during this time will be a memorable experience. However, for a family stay or a quieter time, then visiting during April, May, September, and October when temperatures are usually in the high 70s is worth considering.
How to Get Here - There are regular flights to Rio from Miami, New York and Houston. American, United, Delta and Avianca airlines have convenient non-stop flights or ones with a connection.
Where to Stay - There are very few hotels located on Avenue Vieira Souto directly across from Ipanema beach which is the best location to take advantage of the nearby restaurants and the water. The Sol Ipanema is moderately priced with a small rooftop pool, clean room and a first-floor breakfast area and café which provided an excellent stay. The Hotel Fasano Rio is a luxury property with many amenities which also overlooks the beach.