- Great place!
- Nice place!
- Ok place.
Joatinga Beach
Female opinion
Even after having seen hundreds of beaches in my life, I can honestly say that Joatinga is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Everything about it and the surrounding area is fascinating. Posh villas nestled into the on picturesque clifftops, crystal clear waters, rolling waves, spectacular ocean views. It is worth taking the longer route through the Joá neighborhood, one of the richest areas in Rio with most grandiose villas and vacation homes. Famous, local artists and some of the wealthiest people in Brazil often visit Joatinga beach, to find a little solitude. It's also quite popular among those who like surfing and bodyboarding.
Male opinion
I love this beach and the overall experience it offers. Start your journey from the beginning of Barra, walking between the luxury villas on the mountainous cobblestone streets (it’s good exercise). Once you reach Joatinga, you will be able to see the beach in all of its beauty from the viewpoint at the highest cliff. Make your way down the stairs and narrow cliff road. Be warned though, sometimes this is as far as you get and the gem of the beach will remain unobtainable because of the high tide. Usually you are able to pass through the ankle-, knee-, or hip-deep water (depending on the tide), keeping alert for the waves which want to crush you into the sharp rock formations. You have arrived!
Joatinga beach is locted in Joa district, between Sao Conrado and Barra da Tijuca.
Joa is an upscale neighborhood of upper class of Zona Oeste of Rio de Janeiro. The name of the neighborhood comes from the name of its pioneer resident, the French Laurence Anchois, whose last name was pronounced “anchuá”.
Joa is a very mountainous area, most on the houses are concentrated on top of Joatinga hill. In the Tupi language “yua” means loam and “tinga” whitish.
Tips for Joatinga beach
- Take advantage of the natural sunshades, the solitude, absence of street vendors, and the interesting waves that come from 3 directions to toss you around and meet on the sandy shore.
- Go to Joatinga in the morning, as in the afternoon the beach stays in the shadow and it is not possible to sunbathe.
- Make sure you leave in time as the beach shrinks constantly, cutting your way back with the evening high tide.
- The beach is located on the territory of a closed condominium. Access to the beach is open to everyone, although it might be limited when the beach is full.
Quick facts
Type: beach
Touristic: no
Getting there: takes time and effort
Minimal transport: bus + walk
Difficulty: moderate
Cost: free
Other names: Praia da Joatinga, Joatinga beach
How to get there
Address: R. Srg. José da Silva, 225
Hood: Joá
From Ipanema, General Osorio:
1. Take a bus to Barra da Tijuca (any that has Alvorada as destination).
2. Get off the bus at the first stop after tunnel to Barra, after crossing the river.
3. Use printed map or Google Maps to find your way there.
