Ponta Do Arpoador

This rocky point juts out into the water and serves as one of Rio’s best places for watching the sunset. Throughout the day, you’ll spot fishermen casting off the rock, couples stealing a few kisses and photographers snapping that iconic stretch of Ipanema beach stretching off toward the towering peaks of Dois Irmãos. You’ll also see large flocks of surfers jockeying for position offshore. Around the western edge of the rock is the tiny Praia do Diabo (Devil’s Beach), a fine place to take in the views – but swim with caution. A very rustic gym is built into the rocks (think barbells with concrete weights and many chin-up bars).