set in the center of the neighborhood by the same name, praia da urca (urca's beach) is one of the quieter and least visited beaches in rio's zona sul. a promenade rich with almond trees, fine white sand, calm waters, and a beautiful view of botafogo, flamengo, and of the christ statue on corcovado, make of this beach a hidden gem.

being almost exclusively frequented by local residents, this beach gives a truly authentic feel of rio de janeiro's beach and family life, away from the more international copacabana and ipanema beaches. one of the best times to enjoy this beach is in the late afternoon and evening, as many gather in the area to fish, walk, or simply enjoy the bucolic feel of the neighborhood.