as a tourist destination, maricá offers visitors many beautiful ocean beaches such as itaipuaçu, guaratiba, and ponta negra, all typically deserted and with strong waves - the most famous beach in maricá is praia da barra de maricá, about 9 kilometers long and situated 7 kilometers from the center of town between praias de itaipuaçu and praia de guaratiba.

the majority of lodging establishments, bars, kiosks, and restaurants are located along this beach, also home to some beautiful villas and lots of vegetation - the sand is white, the water always clear and transparent, but the under-tide can be dangerous, and there normally there are no lifeguards on duty so caution is always in order.