Things To Do
in Recreio
Recreio dos Bandeirantes, commonly called Recreio, is a sun-soaked seaside district in Rio de Janeiro known for its long sandy beaches and palm-lined promenade. It blends a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with easy access to nature and city life. The area features a strong surfing culture, modern shopping centers, and scenic viewpoints along the coast.
Visitors come for water sports, coastal walks, and unforgettable sunsets over the Atlantic.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing beach walk along Praia do Recreio, where the soft sand and gentle waves set a serene atmosphere. Enjoy a light breakfast at one of the beachfront cafes, soaking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Stretch your body with some yoga on the beach, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature.
Spend your afternoon lounging under the sun or swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Grab a fresh coconut water from a nearby vendor and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant, sampling local seafood delicacies. As the sun begins to dip, take a stroll along the shore, watching surfers catch waves and families enjoy the beach.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot on the beach to enjoy the spectacular sunset over the ocean. Indulge in a dinner at a popular local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Brazilian dishes while listening to live music. Wrap up the night with a beach bonfire, mingling with locals and fellow travelers under the starry sky.
Begin your day with an invigorating hike at Parque Natural Municipal da Prainha, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views. Take in the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, capturing the beauty of nature with your camera. After your hike, enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the serene surroundings, listening to the sounds of birds and the rustling leaves.
In the afternoon, explore the park's scenic trails, each unveiling more of its natural beauty, including waterfalls and panoramic views of the coastline. Take a refreshing dip in one of the natural pools to cool off from the midday sun. As you wander, keep an eye out for the rare flora and fauna that inhabit this protected area.
After a day of adventure, return to Recreio and unwind at a local eatery, relishing a meal made with fresh, local ingredients. Consider trying a traditional feijoada, a hearty Brazilian stew, accompanied by a caipirinha cocktail. Conclude your evening with a reflective walk along the beach, where the sound of the waves creates a calming backdrop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $5-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and scenic coastline
- Relaxed beach-town vibe with easy access to Rio de Janeiro
- Fresh seafood and diverse outdoor activities
- Family-friendly atmosphere and safety on many days
- Can be crowded during peak season
- Nightlife options are more laid-back than central Rio
- Traffic on main corridors can be heavy
- Some services and amenities may be priced higher in tourist zones
- "Por favor, onde fica a praia?" - Please, where is the beach?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
- "Pode indicar um bom restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Recreio
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy beach with surfers and stunning golden-hour light for wide-angle shots.
Rock outcrop with sweeping views of the coastline and sunsets over the ocean.
Protected forested coastline with dramatic backdrops and misty mornings.
Small, picturesque cove with red sandstone cliffs and turquoise water—great for close-up and landscape photography.
Food in Recreio
Recreio Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A frozen açaí puree served in a bowl, typically topped with granola, banana, and honey; a beach staple conveniently found at kiosks.
Must-Try!
Fried whole fish with french fries, a classic beachside dish enjoyed with lime and farofa.
Fish stew with coconut milk and dendê oil; available in seaside restaurants with fresh catch.
Deep-fried snacks widely sold from street stalls—perfect for a quick bite between swims.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Casual beachfront stalls serving grilled seafood, coconut water, and pastel along the promenade.
Weekend markets offering fresh produce, juices, and artisanal bites within a short drive of Recreio.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bom dia/Boa tarde' and use polite forms, especially in restaurants or shops.
Respect space on crowded beaches; avoid loud behavior near residential areas; cover up when not in swimwear in non-beach areas.
Safety
Tipping in Recreio
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; if service charge isn’t included, leave about 5–10%.
Most venues accept cards; many beach kiosks accept cash; PIX and NFC payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, with temps around 25–34°C; peak beach crowds and afternoon showers are common.
Milder humidity and pleasant temperatures; great for outdoor photography and hiking.
Winter days are cooler (around 18–26°C) with less rainfall; water remains swimmable but air can be breezy.
Warm and sunny; ideal for long beach days, hikes, and outdoor exploring.
Recreio at Night
Hiking in Recreio
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal Atlantic Forest trails with ocean views, suitable for a half-day hike.
Scenic coastal paths linking the beaches with forested areas, offering viewpoints and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Recreio by plane.
Main international airport serving Rio; ~30-40 km from Recreio, with taxis, ride-shares, and airport shuttles.
Downtown city airport; closer to central Rio; ~35-40 km from Recreio; ideal for domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families seeking a relaxed, safe beach lifestyle with nearby schools and parks.
People commuting to nearby commercial districts and enjoying the coastline lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Brazil; local beaches host informal games and leagues.
Common on the sand with nets set up along the shore.
Recreio Beach is known for waves suitable for surfers of different levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Recreio.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer salads, rice and beans, grilled vegetables, and moqueca de palmito; mention no fish if needed.