Praia Grande

A tawny sandbar beach emerges on the far bank of the Rio Branco, opposite Boa Vista, during low water, roughly December to April. Known as Praia Grande, it is indeed big and beachy, and makes for a pleasant afternoon visit. Its transitory existence means there is no shade - bring an umbrella or consider waiting until the afternoon. Porto do Babazinho offers ferry service for R$4 roundtrip, and can provide food and drinks.

Be careful of stingrays, especially in low-water season. The sting hurts like a mother; fortunately, rays are quite skittish and you have to actually step on one for it to sting you. Shuffle your feet when entering or exiting the water - the cloud of sand will scare them away - or use a long stick to poke the shallow water in front of you.