Barra da Tijuca

Barra da Tijuca is a sprawling suburb of upmarket condos and shopping centers anchored by long, scenic Barra Beach. Other sandy stretches include trendy Praia do Pepê and the surf-friendly areas of Recreio and Macumba, where casual bars and seafood restaurants line the seafront. Inland, much of the action takes place at giant malls like BarraShopping, with cinemas, trendy clubs, gourmet eateries and bowling alleys.