located in niterói, the city just across the bridge that joins it to rio de janeiro, praia de icaraí (icaraí beach) is the most famous and most frequented beach in niterói.

about 1200 meters long, icaraí beach has dark green waters, medium white sands, calm waves, and a long promenade rich of almond trees and coconut tress creating numerous shaded and resting areas.

set within the peaceful waters of guanabara bay, praia de icaraí is named using a tupi-guarani word meaning 'sacred water' or, according to some, 'sacred river' or 'salty river.' 

independently of the exact meaning of the name, it shows that this beach has been important to the native population of this area as much as it is today to the local residents.