Praia da Lua

Manaus's best beach is a short boat ride up the Rio Negro and can be coupled with a visit to the Museu do Seringal for a nice city escape. The sand is surprisingly fine and the water good for swimming, despite the tea-color. Like all river beaches, Lua is biggest when the water is low (November and December) and smallest when it's high (June and July). Trees provide some shade, but the midday sun can be intense. Semi-permanent eateries serve fish and beer at tables set up along the water.

The big drawback: no toilets. Catch a boat to Praia da Lua (10 minutes) from Marina Davi. just past Ponta Negra. Take Bus 011, 012, or 120 (20 minutes) to the turnaround and wait for the free 'Especial' bus to the marina.