100 kilometers east of the frenetic rio de janeiro city is the amiable little beachside town, saquarema - ideally nestled between a picturesque lagoon and the glistening ocean, saquarema is a welcoming oasis of beaches, mountains and waterfalls, perfect for a relaxing break, away from the bustling city.

with a host of immaculate beaches, and boasting some of the best surfing conditions in brazil, saquarema is known as brazil's 'surfing capital' - there are 60 kilometers of coastline to explore, and 12 beaches for surfing enthusiasts to choose from.

one of saquarema's most popular surfing beaches is itaúna, which is home to waves that are renowned for being high, and regularly surpass three meters - due to the excellent surfing conditions enjoyed at itaúna, national and international surf competitions are often held here.