prainha municipal park is located west of rio de janeiro, covering an area of 147 acres - given its proximity to barra de tijuca and recreio dos bandeirantes, many residents choose this park as a one day getaway, but visitors also like it for a long weekend or one day trip. it is one hour from copacabana by car and is reachable on public transportation in about an hour and a half.

prainha, which in portuguese means 'small beach,' is a beach paradise with crystal-clear water. its coastal vegetation, reefs and incredible waves make it very popular with a variety of groups including surfers, families and nature lovers - it is also home to many animals on the endangered species list like wild cats, possums, rodents, jararaca snakes and brazilian maracas.