Beach Culture in Rio De Janeiro

     Is there a beach culture in Rio de Janeiro? The answer is yes! Just like in California or on the French Riviera you can definitely distinguish unwritten rules and behaviour patterns that makes it a culture on it's own.

     It all started in the 50s when images of movie stars like Brigitte Bardot in a bikini were spread around the world, soon everyone wanted to go to the beach. Rio de Janeiro was no exception and soon the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana were full of people getting a sun tan wearing next to nothing. Ever since the beach has played a big part in the minds of the people in Rio.

     Sports and activities are very popular. Early in the morning you have people walking and jogging before work. During the day many play volleyball, football and beach tennis. You also have the outdoor gyms where people push and pull to achieve that perfect body. And then you have the surfers...

     Ever since surfing came to Rio it has been popular. They may not have the best waves for it but it fits so well with the mentality of the cariocas (people living in Rio) that they ignore that. The whole concept of catching waves and hanging out on the beach is a perfect fit with their mentality. As a result on weekends the waves are extremely crowded and it's almost impossible for an outsider to get a shot at the best waves.

     Sundays and weekends the traffic is redirected from the beach avenues in Copacabana and Ipanema to give more space for people who wants to ride their bikes, skateboard or just enjoy a walk along the beach. On these days the beach is for everyone, young and old, tourists or cariocas.

     The beach is a very social place, it's kind of like your favourite bar where everyone knows who you are. Many go to the beach almost every sunny day and sit at almost the same spot every time. The beach in Ipanema is curiously divided into informal sections, you have one for gay, another for students and so on. There are unwritten rules how to behave, what to wear and how you sit. Here are a few tips that will help you fit in:

     - Leave your towel at home, if you're a girl use a beach sheet (kanga) and guys can either rent a chair or just sit in the sand.

     - Wear swimming trunks or surf shorts, never football shorts (it's just as cool as wearing sports socks in loafers to us).

     - Buy what you eat and drink on the beach, if you have a big water bottle everyone knows you're a gringo so leave it at home.

Boa Praia!