praia vermelha (red beach), is a charming beach nested in the urca neighborhood, between the morro da urca and the morro da babilônia - despite being so close to the entrance to the sugar loaf on praça general tibúrcio (general tibúrcio square), this beautiful shore is not a common beach destination for international visitors.

red beach is an easy stop when visiting the sugar loaf, as it is only a short walk away from the the cable car station. there is a tranquil feel to this beach that is quite unique, due to the rocks and vegetation surrounding it. during the summer months (november through february), praia vermelha is ideal to enjoy the sunrise - we posted some pictures of a sunrise at praia vermelha here.