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Copacabana beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world. The word Copacabana itself creates images of hundreds of perfect bodies on a crowded beach, men and women flirting with each other, playing football, working out, or laying out for a tan.
In reality, it’s not like that at all except for the crowded part. In fact, it’s so touristy, I wasn’t as impressed by the beach as I thought I would be. Beautiful, yes. Mythical, no.
History
Named after the town of Copacabana in Bolivia, the area is included in Rio de Janeiro’s UNESCO World Heritage listing. It’s a 4km long stretch of beach and features a fort built in 1914 on its southern end, Fort Copacabana.
Promenade
There’s a promenade running the length of the beach. It was designed by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx and features a black and white geometric wave in a Portuguese pavement design.
Walking along the promenade, it’s possible to encounter lots of sand castle artists with very imaginative designs.
Copacabana Palace
There are lots of hotels across the street from the beach, but the one that sticks out the most is the historic Copacabana Palace. The luxury hotel was built in 1923 and has hosted heads of state and celebrities from all over the world. It has 216 rooms and an exclusive swimming pool for VIP guests along with a three story spa and three bars and restaurants.
Market
A couple blocks in from the beach on Sundays is a large market. It’s interesting to see the variety of fruits and vegetables available, along with Cariocas shopping for meats and fish. There are even a few food stands where you can try a pastel (like an empanada) and caldo de cano (sugar cane juice).
Environs
East of Copacabana, across Avenida Princes Isabel is Leme. To the west, you’ll find Arpoador, Ipanema, and Leblon.
