100 best beaches in South America

Many people have become acquainted with this beach not through geography lessons or personal travel experiences, but thanks to the enchanting bossa nova hit "The Girl from Ipanema" ("Garota de Ipanema"). Its creators, Antonio Carlos Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes, catapulted this shoreline to fame, rivaling even Copacabana. Intriguingly, the name 'Ipanema' translates from Tupi as "bad, dangerous waters." Indeed, the waves here are quite formidable, making it an ideal destination for surf enthusiasts. However, those who venture here simply to swim should proceed with caution.

Garrapatero Beach, renowned for its breathtaking beauty, is nestled on the island of Santa Cruz, a stone's throw away from Puerto Ayora. This pristine paradise, with its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, beckons travelers seeking a serene escape amidst the enchanting Galapagos Islands. Whether you're yearning for a tranquil day soaking up the sun or an adventurous outing exploring the rich marine life, Garrapatero Beach promises an unforgettable beach vacation experience.

Copacabana Beach stands as a dazzling highlight among Rio de Janeiro's most iconic attractions. Renowned for its pristine white sands, expansive and well-maintained infrastructure, and breathtakingly vast expanse, this beach captivates with its scenic vistas. It is equally cherished for its vibrant and lively ambiance, a plethora of entertainment options, and its close proximity to one of the world's most stunning metropolises.

Cayo de Agua, nestled within the enchanting Los Roques archipelago, lies in the southern reaches of the Caribbean Sea. Approximately a hundred kilometers north of Venezuela's bustling capital, Caracas, and an equal distance east of the vibrant island of Curacao, it is a haven of tranquility. This region of the sea is renowned for its exceptionally favorable conditions. Infrequent storms grace its skies, while the abundance of clear, sunny days ranks among the highest on the globe, making it an idyllic destination for beach vacationers.

The beach at Santos, located not far from São Paulo, is a serene escape for city dwellers seeking respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. On weekends, residents of the metropolis flock here to unwind. In terms of scale and popularity, as well as being lined with chic high-rise hotels, it bears a resemblance to Rio's Copacabana. However, Santos Beach offers a more tranquil atmosphere, devoid of the vibrant and occasionally perilous nightlife. For many, the absence of noisy and inebriated crowds is a welcome advantage, making Santos Beach a more peaceful retreat.

Baia do Sancho, a small yet incredibly picturesque beach nestled in the eponymous secluded bay on Fernando de Noronha, has been recognized as the first Brazilian marine park. Year after year, this beach consistently ranks among the top ten destinations for a beach vacation in the vast expanse of Brazil. Situated approximately an hour's journey from the northeastern mainland, it undoubtedly merits the attention of all who are drawn to stunning natural landscapes.

This enchanting beach, nestled in a paradisiacal bay, marks the point where the Guajira desert cascades into the Caribbean Sea's embrace. Whirlwinds of burnt orange and red sand dance across the bright turquoise surface, crafting a vivid contrast that captivates the senses. The spectacle grows even more mesmerizing at sunset when the waters transform into a dazzling orange-red palette, mirroring the fiery sky above.

Praia dos Carneiros, ranked among the top ten of the world's best beaches and also within the top ten in Brazil, boasts 8 km of pristine white sands that often appear untouched by human presence. Towering palms gently sway over the warm sea, which is home to vibrant underwater reefs. In the lush coastal mangroves, sloths and Ara parrots find sanctuary, while turtles make their way onto the sun-kissed sand. This idyllic setting is a slice of paradise for those seeking a tranquil beach vacation.

Nestled on the northern coast of Venezuela, the quaint town of Choroni lies midway between Valencia and Caracas, to the west of the nation's bustling capital. Unlike other typical Latin American settlements, Choroni stands out with its charming Creole architecture, seamlessly blending with an array of cozy hotels and intimate restaurants. Remarkably, this small resort town boasts an extraordinary number of pizzerias, offering a unique culinary twist to your beach vacation.

Forno Beach, nestled on the southeastern fringes of the Buzios Peninsula, stands as one of the most breathtakingly picturesque beaches in the region. Tucked away in a secluded bay, just a stone's throw from the namesake resort town, this Brazilian gem is renowned for its unique pink-red sand - a vivid testament to the high iron content mineral predominance. It's this distinctive landscape that occasionally earns the beach the moniker "Martian," captivating visitors who seek a touch of the extraterrestrial on their seaside getaway.

Lencois Maranhenses Beach, a unique and picturesque coast in the northeast of Brazil, is invariably included in the top lists of the most romantic beaches not only in this country but across the entire planet. Nestled within the reserve of the same name in the state of Maranhão, this kingdom of majestic snow-white dunes and turquoise lagoons offers an incredible sight that firmly establishes the reputation of this picturesque corner of Brazil as one of the most romantic destinations for a beach vacation.

Rabida Beach, a charming and popular destination, nestles on the island bearing its name, situated to the south of San Salvador Island. This picturesque spot is also known by its alternative name, Jervis, inviting travelers to its unique shores in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

Abricó Beach, the sole city beach in Rio de Janeiro officially recognized for naturism, beckons admirers of this liberating lifestyle. Nestled on the western fringes of the city, within the pristine confines of a biological reserve in the Grumari region, Abricó offers an idyllic escape. Renowned as one of the country's earliest nudist beaches, with a history dating back to the 1940s, it remains the only beach officially sanctioned for naturism to this day.

Nestled within Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast in northwest Colombia, El Cabo San Juan beach lies a mere 32 km from the bustling city of Santa Marta. This idyllic haven, set amidst lagoons and lush tropical jungle, has earned its place as one of the top 20 most beautiful beaches in the world. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, El Cabo San Juan beach boasts pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters of an enchanting emerald hue. The beach is a haven for camping enthusiasts, offering year-round facilities right on the shoreline, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an unforgettable beach vacation in Colombia.

Barra da Tijuca, often simply referred to as Barra, boasts an expansive eighteen-kilometer stretch of sandy shores along the coast of a picturesque lagoon, nestled in the western part of Rio de Janeiro. You can easily reach this stunning destination by bus, car, or metro.