Doni Clemons
A veritable Mecca for surfing in Rio, the Arpoador Beach is located in the southern side of the city, between the Ipanema and Copacabana beaches. Arpoador can get very crowded with both tourists and surfers, as its waves are considered one of the best in Rio. It is also the place of professional competitions. Another interesting feature of the beach is the Arpoador Rock that drops into the sea, with a hiking path providing access to the top. The rock is a site for many outdoor parties. Live music, food and drink vendors, and cool crowds gather and dance alongside the water. During the day, you may see local fishermen making a living on this rock. Feeling the need to work on your muscles after too many caipirinhas and salgados? Stop by Arpoador’s “Flinstones gym”, an outdoor gym with concrete weights.
