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With over 4,500 miles of Atlantic coastline, Brazil offers a beach for every kind of traveler—from laid-back sunbathers to thrill-seeking surfers. Whether you’re chasing waves or looking to relax under swaying palm trees, these ten beaches blend surf-worthy swells with postcard-perfect sand. From secluded island coves to Rio’s legendary shores, each location delivers something uniquely Brazilian. Ready to explore Brazil’s best coastal escapes? These are the top spots where sun and surf are always in season.
1. Baía do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha
Hidden within a protected national park, Baía do Sancho is often rated one of the best beaches in the world—and for good reason. You’ll descend steep ladders through a rock tunnel before reaching golden sands lapped by emerald waves. Its isolation makes it ideal for snorkeling, photography, and soaking up nature in peace. With limited visitor access, this is a destination worth booking in advance for a truly untouched experience.
2. Trancoso, Bahia
This charming beach town, once a hippie hideout, now blends luxury with laid-back vibes. Nestled between jungle and sea, Trancoso’s beaches are soulful stretches of sand where time slows down. You’ll find beachfront bungalows, yoga retreats, and wildlife like sea turtles and marmosets all around. It’s the perfect escape for travelers looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature and coastal charm.
3. Praia do Forte, Salvador
Just an hour from Salvador, Praia do Forte combines eco-conscious tourism with crystal-clear waters and soft white dunes. Popular for snorkeling and swimming, it’s also home to the Tamar Project, a conservation initiative protecting Brazil’s sea turtles. Explore shaded coconut groves, walk scenic trails, or catch a guided tour during turtle hatchling season for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
4. Jericoacoara, Ceará
Remote and wind-swept, Jericoacoara (or “Jeri”) is a favorite for kite- and windsurfers. Its sandy streets, rustic charm, and surrounding sand dunes create a bohemian paradise. You’ll catch unforgettable sunsets at Pedra Furada and soak in freshwater lagoons framed by hammocks. Though harder to reach, Jeri’s off-the-grid spirit is exactly what makes it so magical.
5. Copacabana & Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro
These iconic crescents of white sand are social and sun-soaked playgrounds right in the heart of Rio. Backed by dramatic mountains and packed with beachgoers, they’re ideal for people-watching, sipping caipirinhas, and joining a game of beach volleyball. While often crowded, the energy and rhythm of these beaches are unmatched. They’re bucket-list essentials for any Brazil-bound traveler.
6. Lopes Mendes, Ilha Grande
Accessible only by boat and footpath, Lopes Mendes rewards your effort with quiet, powdery sand and crystal waters ideal for surfing and swimming. Tucked within Ilha Grande’s rainforest-cloaked hills, the beach is undeveloped, preserving its natural charm. Pack snacks, water, and a sense of adventure—this remote beach invites you to unwind far from the city buzz.
7. Praia da Pipa, Rio Grande do Norte
Praia da Pipa’s golden sands and dramatic cliffs draw surfers and sunbathers alike. Dolphins often frolic in the bay, adding magic to an already idyllic setting. While the town is lively with bars and cafes, it maintains a relaxed vibe that appeals to solo travelers and digital nomads. Grab a coconut drink and enjoy sunsets that paint the cliffs in fiery hues.
8. Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco
One of Brazil’s best-known beach resorts, Porto de Galinhas is loved for its clear tide pools, perfect for snorkeling. The beach’s calm water makes it family-friendly, while nearby sand dunes and buggy rides add a dose of adventure. Boutique hotels and local seafood shacks make it a relaxing stay, ideal for couples and sunseekers wanting variety.
9. Praia Mole, Florianópolis
Set on Santa Catarina Island, Praia Mole offers thrilling waves, vibrant beach bars, and a welcoming vibe, especially among LGBTQ+ travelers. It’s a favorite for both sunrise surf sessions and sunset cocktails. With yoga studios, nature trails, and stylish guesthouses nearby, it blends outdoor fun with relaxing amenities in one sun-drenched setting.
10. Alter do Chão, Pará
A river beach deep in the Amazon, Alter do Chão appears between August and December when water levels drop, revealing soft, sandy shores. Surrounded by jungle and river communities, it’s a place to reconnect with nature. Spend the day kayaking, hiking forest trails, or sampling Amazonian cuisine. It’s not your typical beach—but that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.