barra de guaritiba, surrounded by thick forest and isolated from the movement of neighboring barra de tijuca, is home to a number of 'virgin' beaches - praia dos búzios, do perigoso, do meio, funda and inferno, almost exclusively frequented by surfers but undoubtedly a paradise also for those seeking a secluded spot in which to enjoy nature at its fullest.  

nearby, recreio dos bandeirantes, one of the more frequented ares in zona oeste, popular amongst the eco-friendly and water sport enthusiasts - it is an up-and-coming neighborhood in which interaction with the local wildlife is practically inevitable and making friends with the locals is easy and encouraged.