The Prainhas
Between the rocks.
Gabriel Abreu — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Sophydiah — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Sophydiah — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Juh oliveira87 — CC BY-SA 3.0
Arraial do Cabo is a town on a rocky cape east of Rio de Janeiro that Brazilians call the Brazilian Caribbean for its clear turquoise water, kept cool and clear by deep ocean currents. The Pontal do Atalaia lookout is its high point: a platform on the hill overlooking two small beaches between the rocks known as the Prainhas, the sea and the islands opposite. From here comes the town's most famous view: narrow white sand between cliffs, water in shades of blue and green, and the Ilha do Farol on the horizon. It is reached by car or taxi and a short walk. Note: since 16 January 2026 the Brazilian Navy has barred tour boats from landing passengers on the Prainhas until further notice, so check the current situation before going. The lookout itself is free; the sun is strong and shade is scarce.
Between the rocks.
Shades of blue.
On the horizon.
Pontal do Atalaia, Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro state
On 16 January 2026 the Navy barred tour boats from landing passengers there until further notice, so check before going; the lookout above them is free.