the stretch of sand close to the pier, on the left side of pepê's beach, is the area favored by families with children. this portion of the beach can get very crowded on week-ends, as it is also visited by many cariocas from other parts of town, and by many recreational fishermen. 

posto 4, the middle section of barra beach, across and around the beachfront sheraton barra hotel and apartments, is the area most frequented by surfers, as the waves are strong and there are not many bathers crowding the waters.

the part of barra beach near the alvorada bus terminal, one of the main bus terminals in the west zone of rio, is the fastest to reach by bus, despite the walk necessary from the bus station to the beach, and it is also the most crowded and most visited by foreigners.