See the place that inspired a famous song about a bikini at this upscale beach.

Located in one of the wealthiest areas in Rio de Janeiro, Ipanema Beach is between Leblon and Arpoador, adjacent to the famed Copacabana Beach. Although the word Ipanema literally translates to “stinky lake” in the Tupi language, this description doesn’t fit what you’ll find along this stretch of white-sand beach where the rich and chic come to worship the sun. Beyond the western limit of the beach, there is a beautiful view of the two mountains, Dois Irmãos.

Originally, Ipanema referred to the homeland of a previous landowner instead of the stretch of coastline. Western culture recognizes the famous beach from the 1960s hit song The Girl From Ipanema, which was written by two local residents.

The local weather is mild year-round, but the best time to visit Ipanema Beach is from July through September when the weather and sunlight are ideal. During Rio’s Carnival, Ipanema hosts its own celebration, Banda de Ipanema, which draws in nearly 50,000 visitors. Regardless of when you visit, make sure you swim only in areas with designated lifeguards, as the water can be treacherous. Multiple lifeguard towers are located along Ipanema’s coastline.

You’ll find devoted surfers and sunbathers every day of the week, but you can expect a larger crowd on Sundays when the nearest road is closed to traffic, but open to walkers, runners, bikers and all varieties of skaters.

The area right near the beach features high-end restaurants and retailers. Wander down Rua Vinícius de Moraes where there is the highest concentration of shops and boutiques. Take a seat at a table in a botequim, which is the Portuguese term for bar or café. Watch the passing parade of people while you sip Brazil’s national cocktail, the caipirinha. Note that prices in bars, cafés and restaurants in the Ipanema Beach area are higher than most other parts of Rio.

Ipanema Beach is about 30 minutes by taxi or bus from downtown Rio during normal traffic. Avoid renting a car if possible, as parking is hard to find and almost never free. If you must rent a car, read your hotel details carefully and see if parking is included. If you visit during peak times, make reservations early for either New Year’s Eve or Carnival, which is typically near the end of February.

Plan a trip to see Ipanema Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Pestana Rio Atlantica

Copacabana

￥44,541

per person

Oct 8 - Oct 10

found 16 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Sao Paulo (SAO) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG)

8.4/10 Very Good! (1,009 reviews)

Regency Barra Hotel

Barra da Tijuca

Save 100% on your flight

￥53,750

per person

Oct 8 - Oct 10

found 16 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Sao Paulo (SAO) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG)

9/10 Wonderful! (678 reviews)

This is a very, very old hotel and, in my opinion, it urgently needs a complete renovation. Upon arrival, I encountered several problems in my room. The safe was not working, the air conditioning was out of order for two consecutive days, and there was a problem with the window, which could not be opened or closed properly. The bathroom sink also had issues. In other words, I experienced problems in my room for two consecutive days, which is completely unacceptable for a hotel of this level. The property is clearly very outdated and urgently needs a major renovation. In its current condition, I would personally rate it as no more than a two-star hotel. I sincerely hope that management will take these comments seriously and consider a complete modernization of the property.

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2026

Olinda Rio Hotel

Copacabana

￥52,550

per person

Oct 9 - Oct 11

found 16 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Sao Paulo (SAO) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG)

8.6/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)

I didn't like them asking for additional fees in case you have a guest .

Reviewed on Jul 16, 2026

Best Lodging Options Near Ipanema Beach

Check availability on hotels close to Ipanema Beach

Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort

Avenida Niemeyer 121 - Leblon Rio de Janeiro RJ

JANEIRO Hotel

Avenida Delfim Moreira, 696 Rio de Janeiro RJ

Hotel Astoria Ipanema

Rua Visconde De Piraja, 539 Ipanema Rio de Janeiro RJ

Sol Ipanema Hotel

Avenida Vieira Souto 320 Rio de Janeiro RJ

Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana

Avenida Atlântica, 4240 - Copacabana Rio de Janeiro RJ

Ipanema Inn

Rua Maria Quiteria 27 Rio de Janeiro RJ

Hotel Vermont Ipanema

R. Visconde de Piraja, 254 - Ipanema Rio de Janeiro RJ

Miramar by Windsor Copacabana

Avenida Atlantica, 3668 - Copacabana Rio de Janeiro RJ

Hotel Atlântico Travel

Rua Barata Ribeiro nº 544, Copacabana Rio de Janeiro

See all 4,248 properties in Ipanema Beach

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Ipanema Beach

Shopping

In Ipanema Beach, you can visit the Hippie Fair, just 966m away, for unique local crafts and souvenirs. Rio Sul Shopping Mall, located 4.8km away, offers a vibrant shopping experience, while Shopping de Gavea, 3.2km away, combines family-friendly fun with diverse shopping options.

Recreation

At Estádio da Gávea, enjoy exclusive wellness experiences in a luxurious country club setting, just 1.6km from Ipanema Beach. Oi Casa Grande offers a romantic atmosphere with cultural events, located 1.3km away. Planetário, 3.2km away, provides an entertaining family experience under the stars.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views on the Sugarloaf Cable Car, located 4.8km from Ipanema Beach. For outdoor enthusiasts, Pista Claudio Coutinho, 6.4km away, offers scenic trails. Don't miss the Corcovado Train, 4.8km from the beach, providing an adventurous ride with family-friendly vibes.

Nightlife

Ipanema Beach boasts a vibrant nightlife filled with lively bars and clubs. Start your evening at the famous Bar Astor for cocktails, then dance the night away at Club 117. For a laid-back vibe, relax at the beachfront kiosks while enjoying live music and the stunning ocean views.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Ipanema Beach

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, where you can enjoy stunning sandy beaches and explore cultural attractions. Don't miss Ipanema Park for outdoor activities and a taste of local life. For a broader adventure, consider a visit to Brasília. Whether you're seeking relaxation or city experiences, Ipanema Beach has something for everyone.

Copacabana Beach: Just 3.2km from Ipanema Beach, Copacabana is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning beach vibes. Enjoy the lively promenade lined with cafes, bars, and vendors while soaking in the sun and the rhythmic sounds of samba music.
Christ the Redeemer: Located 3.2km away, this iconic statue stands tall atop Corcovado Mountain, offering breathtaking views of Rio. Immerse yourself in the cultural significance and awe-inspiring design of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Sugar Loaf Mountain: A 6.4km journey from Ipanema leads you to this majestic peak, where outdoor enthusiasts can hike or take a cable car for panoramic views of the city and coastline. Experience the adventure and stunning scenery that make this spot unforgettable.

Best time to go to Ipanema Beach

The best time to visit Ipanema Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	72.0°F (22.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	70.0°F (21.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
August	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Ipanema Beach

Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
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Ipanema Beach Tours

Visit Ipanema Beach

Things to do

Plaza Premium Lounge at Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (GIG)

Rio: Carnival Backstage Tour at Samba City with Cocktail

Skip the Line Christ the Redeemer Admission Ticket

Museum of Tomorrow, AquaRio & Olympic Boulevard

Rio de Janeiro: Shared Transfer to Vila Abrão (Ilha Grande)

Pedra Do Telégrafo + Praia De Grumari

Plan a trip to see Ipanema Beach

Pestana Rio Atlantica

Regency Barra Hotel

Olinda Rio Hotel

Browse tours and tickets to explore Ipanema Beach

Tours & day trips

Full Day in Rio - Christ the Redeemer by Van, Sugarloaf, City Tour & BBQ

Food, drink & nightlife

Full-Day in Rio Christ by Train, Sugarloaf, City Tour & BBQ

Private & custom tours

Santa Teresa Private Tour & Photo Shoot

Water activities

Rio de Janeiro: Surf school with all equipment included

Adventure & outdoor

Electric Bike Tour

Stay near popular Ipanema Beach attractions

Ipanema Beach

Best Lodging Options Near Ipanema Beach

Check availability on hotels close to Ipanema Beach

Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort

JANEIRO Hotel

Hotel Astoria Ipanema

Sol Ipanema Hotel

Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana

Ipanema Inn

Hotel Vermont Ipanema

Miramar by Windsor Copacabana

Hotel Atlântico Travel

Things to do near Ipanema Beach

Find the best attractions near Ipanema Beach

Best time to go to Ipanema Beach

Tips to save on your trip to Ipanema Beach

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