at a glance

praia da urca is a smaller beach next to a promenade rich of almond trees, fine white sand, calm waters, and a beautiful view of botafogo, flamengo, and of the christ statue on corcovado - facing the bay, the shore is framed by rocks on both sides, and looks onto many docked boats, giving it a charming bucolic feel.

urca beach is north of the urca hill, with the antique building of the casino right beside it - the contrast between the local fishermen and the yacht club is most unique here, especially at sunset when luxurious boats pass by as local fishermen relax and chat.

two other beaches only accessible through the fort, praia de dentro and praia de fora ('inner beach' and 'outer beach' respectively) are located in the military zone between sugar loaf and cara de cão.