located in rio's south-west zone along avenida sernambetiba, with nearly 18 km (12 miles) of extension, barra beach (praia da barra da tijuca) is the biggest beach in rio de janeiro. in our guide we differentiate between three separate beaches which form the most significant segments of the beach - barra beach, praia do pepê, and reserva ecológica.

characterized by fine white sand, clean light-green waters, strong waves, and wide areas between the promenade and the water, this beach has become popular in the last 20 years following the development of barra da tijuca, the modern neighborhood behind it. due to its excellent infrastructure and plentitude of space, this beach is the one beach in rio where the biggest variety of sports is practiced, from beach soccer to jet skiing.