the environmental reserves include spectacular mangroves and rain forest, and there are adventures for everyone, from surfing to rock climbing, rappelling, boating, and fishing.

there are several eating options, especially for seafood lovers offering shellfish, seafood, and peixadas, mostly along the road estrada roberto burle marx.

barra de guaratiba is deeply loved by its residents, and nicknamed princesinha' da zona oeste - little princess of the west zone.

many of the residents compare this extremely charming small bay to the italian island of capri, due to the many houses on the canals and on the hillsides.