One sport which is played at almost every beach in Rio, regardless of size and demographic, is 'futebol de areia,' or beach soccer. At larger beaches, such as the 'Praia do Flamengo,' and in areas of the Western Zone of Rio, there are nets and portions of the sand dedicated to the recreation. Altinha, or 'little high,' is a game in which the ball is passed in the air between circles of players, using feet, calves, knees, shoulders and head. The golden rule - that the ball remains air bound at all times - lends the sport its name.

Another celebrated sport is Volleyball and courts can be found lining the beachfront at almost all of the beaches in the city, where professionals and amateurs come to flaunt and hone their talents.