it is estimated that about 500 alligators live within rio de janeiro's city boundaries, and many are often spotted in this region, and on the praia do recreio's side. sometimes, alligators venture onto the asphalted area and need to be rescued and brought to the nearby parque chico mendes before being released back into the reserve.

along the beach there are some kiosks but no lifeguards other than the helicopter that patrols the area on some days - there are no public restrooms, or exercise equipment along praia da reserva. the kiosks on this beach have a particular look, different from all others in rio and are called 'ilhas' (islands).