Beyond Copa

Rio's most famous beaches have a REPUTATION. Many people come to Rio humming Barry Manilow's 'Copacabana' song (actually about Cuba, ironically) or 'The Girl from Ipanema,' and most tourists' visits to the city include a requisite visit to these powerhouses. For good reason -- Copa and Ipanema are absolutely incredible. If, however, you're sick of the city beaches or simply want to experience a new shoreline, here are some worthy options:

Barra da Tijuca: Commonly dubbed 'the Miami of Rio,' this beach, set off by towering highrises, has it all: white-sand beaches, calm blue water, and a relaxed atmosphere. The barrio is being rapidly developed, so enjoy it now, before Ipanema's hoardes head west. To get there, take the S-20 bus (regular fare) running from Centro along the coast.

Recreio: Stay on the bus a little longer, and you'll wind up in Recreio, Barra's rough sibling, with fewer highrises and rougher waves. A huge rock (climbable, for great views of the coast on either side) juts out from the beachfront.

Prainha: This little gem, a kombi ride (or a hitchhike if you're feeling adventurous) away from Recreio, is absolutely stunning. The waves are quite large here, too, so you can play in the ocean, climb and chill on the beach's huge rocks, or spread your towel on the soft sand without interruption from obnoxious beach salesmen. You can also take a walk through the national park (lovely trails, disgusting bathrooms) before catching the easy public transportation home.

Niteroi: Cariocas will tell you that the best thing about neighboring Niteroi is its stunning view of Rio de Janeiro across the water. In truth, however, Niteroi is culturally stimulating, visually enthralling, and only a R$2 ferry ride away from Rio's Praca XV. Though Niteroi is famous primarily for its Oscar Niemeyer-designed other-worldly contemporary art museum, it also boasts an impressive number of astounding beaches. The best (and farthest) is Itacoatiara Beach, reached by taking a no.38 bus from the ferry dock.

When the afternoon begins to lazily transition into evening, head back toward the city, stopping at the sand dune alongside Itaipu Beach to watch the sunset. Niteroi's beaches are safer than Rio's at nighttime, so you can linger a while before catching the bus or ferry back to Rio.