praia vermelha, on the other hand, is more swimmer-friendly as it has access to the cleaner waters of the atlantic ocean.  in fact, the calmer waves and relative seclusiveness of this beach make it one of rio best kept secrets.

its name ('red beach') is derived from the color of the sand when it reflects the light of the setting sun, and it has been described as one of the most beautiful places to watch the ocean at night, with the sugar loaf towering above it.