These small beaches are located in a cove near the town of Arraial do Cabo, and are about a 2.5…read morehour drive from Zona Sul in Rio de Janeiro.
I came out here on a Sunday afternoon after seeing some pictures online. To get to the beach you have a few options:
- Drive to the state park along a bumpy brick road (there are some potholes and it is dirt at times) and pay R$10.
- Take a small boat from Arraial do Cabo.
I drove. After parking, you have to walk a bit. Parking is located on the right side of the road and if you get there after 12, the spots might be pretty far from the stairs (the spots aren't marked, it's just a long line of cars). To get to the beach, you have to walk down a giant set of wooden steps because it's on the secluded cove.
But it's worth it. The beaches are made up of a fine white sand, the water is clean and crystal clear, but also a bit cold (gelada). Because of its remote location, the beach was fairly uncrowded - nowhere near the number of people you'll find in Zona Sul. There are some vendors and a couple of BBQ-style food kiosks - you'll probably want to bring your own beach towel and water. There are no bathrooms or other services.
I would give this place 5 stars except for the lack of services and the boats. The area was full of little tourist boats that go back and forth between Arraial do Cabo, and I think out to sea. They were constantly blowing their whistles and some had music playing. It was annoying.
I drove back that same day, next time I'll stay in a hotel or pousada in Arraial do Cabo. It's a long drive just to go to the beach, but worth it. Probably the most beautiful beach I've been to in RJ.
