There is also a wide assortment of water-based sports which Cariocas and visitors flock to Rio's shores for. Swimmers congregate in groups for mass swims and competitions, while surfers and body-boarders take to the rough, clean waters of the Barra da Tijuca neighbourhood, and further afield to nearby Recreio - as well as the trendy beaches of the districts of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon.

At the moment, Stand-Up Paddle is the fashionable water recreation in Rio: a sport that involves standing on a board while using a paddle to glide through the waves. The activity offers tranquil exercise accompanied by unique views of the natural landscape, easy to practice and also enjoyable on lakes and lagoons.