Small cove
Between hills.
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Prainha, the «little beach», is a small sandy cove ringed by forested hills at the far west of Rio de Janeiro, past Recreio dos Bandeirantes. It is one of the city's «hidden» beaches and a refuge for surfers thanks to waves well suited to the sport. The beach and its surroundings are protected by the Prainha Municipal Nature Park, opened by the city in 2001 and estimated at about 147 hectares, between the Pedra dos Cabritos, Boa Vista and Caeté hills. The park preserves several Atlantic Forest types: coastal restinga, lowland forest and rocky-shore vegetation, and has a visitor centre with an exhibition room and a library. Public transport is limited, so a car or taxi along Avenida Estado da Guanabara is easiest; the park opens Tuesday to Sunday during the day. It suits a full day in nature away from the city; follow the lifeguards' flags, as the waves can be strong.
Between hills.
For surfers.
Around the beach.
Avenida Estado da Guanabara, Recreio dos Bandeirantes, Rio de Janeiro
By car or taxi along Avenida Estado da Guanabara; public transport is limited.