food, drinks, beach chairs and umbrellas can be found at one of the many 'barracas', which are the small vending stands numbered consecutively along the beach, - normally named after the owner, most barracas are small groups of families and close friends who have been working there for years. 

tipping is always a great idea to show appreciation, and vendors remember the names of good patrons who come often -  this wonderful mix of formality and familiarity is reflective in the day to day interactions of cariocas. 

on weekends and during holidays, crowded beaches are to be expected, especially in popular areas such ipanema and copacabana - visitors will commonly see local beachgoers ask someone nearby to guard their items while they take a quick dive in the ocean - this gesture is a common act of kindness and camaraderie found within carioca beach culture.