Copacabana

Copacabana may earn the title of "beach that never sleeps." The site of FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup and some of the world's best surfing also doubles as a venue for rock concerts and New Year's Eve bashes.

Despite the activity, visitors can still appreciate the sight of cobalt-colored waters during the day and the city lights at night. Rio also has several quieter beaches nearby, but this is not a beach for people looking for the desert island experience.