the beaches on each side of the rock are very well-known surfing spots, due to the bigger swell created by the peninsula - waves here are usually more aggressively than at most other carioca beaches, thus providing a better challenge to the more experienced surfers.    

to the west of the rock, away from the shore, lies the garota de ipanema park -a small green area surrounded by the urban sprawl. the park is frequented by people practicing sports, socializing, or attending one of the regular musical events that occur here.