it is surrounded by an upscale neighborhood bearing the same name, but it is best known as the area most sought after by young people because of its excellent nightlife. the beach is also very popular among fitness enthusiasts - in fact, the water is perhaps the least-frequently used feature here. like most beaches in niterói, it is lined with a boardwalk perfect for running, walking and cycling. 'sand running' - i. e. beach running - is also practiced here, and proponent groups such as ff running trace their beginnings to são francisco.
