Doni Clemons
Praia do Pepê is practically a playground for those who love water sports. There are so many activities on this beach it is practically a natural water park. Praia do Pepê is actually named in honor of the world champion hang glider Pedro Paulo "Pepe" Lopes. Surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and bodyboarding are all practiced here any given day. There is also skateboarding, biking and running along the boardwalk. Even the most popular kiosk is named after the late Pepe. Before he died during a competition in Japan, he had set up a stand in this beach where natural food was sold. His sandwiches became increasingly popular and soon his natural foods reached other parts of the city and throughout Rio. The beach is a part of Barra da Tijuca, so there are a lot of bars, restaurants, and shopping beyond the sands as well.
