One of the first things people vision when they think of Rio is the packed beaches and rightfully so. Going to the beach is a way of life for the locals. Not only because of the hot weather but because the people like to take care of their bodies by walking, biking, jogging or playing sports on the beach. Besides beach volleyball, which Brazil is known for internationally, you'll see people playing "Futevolei" a species of volleyball played only with the feet, chest, and head like soccer.

Local men wear Speedo-like bathing suits so if you don't want to stick out in your short-like trunks buy a trendy bathing suit there. The "cool guys" use either Blue Man or Osklen brands. I probably don't need to tell you women that Brazil is known for its beach wear so have fun checking out the shops. The most frequented beaches are LEBLON, IPANEMA, and COPACABANA. However, many of the locals like to make the scenic drive to BARRA, a newer trendier place to go to the beach. The water is cleaner. Plus, famous soccer players and TV stars have bars there and can be seen on the beaches. This is also the POUPOZUDAS zone. If you don't know what that is. You soon will.