A paradise of sun, sand and surf for beach lovers

Few countries can match Brazil's staggering number of beaches. With 8,000 kilometres of coastline, a mostly tropical climate and a population attuned to beach life, hitting the beach is as Brazilian as the samba, soccer and carnivals.

From the craziness of Copacabana in Rio, to the hip beaches of Jericoacoara in the northwestern state of Ceara and the resorts of Buzios and Morro de Sao Paulo, Brazil seems to have it all.

Its most famous beach is Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro. This 4.5 km stretch of blue sea and dazzling white sand is a must for any visitor.

There is always something happening at Copacabana: eating, drinking, dancing and the most popular of Rio pursuits - people-watching.

At night, the footpaths come alive with sidewalk cafes. Bars and nightclubs hustle for business and tourists rub shoulders with the local residents. Ipanema is the hangout for Rio's rich and chic. Close to the most exclusive suburb in the city, Ipanema is not as hectic as Copacabana but can still get crowded. A couple of cafes front on the beach, offering the opportunity to drink and eat with Rio's elite.

Above Pepino beach, in the Rio suburb of Sao Conrado, a visitor can experience one of life's great highs. On the beach, contact one of the many hang-gliding pilots who will drive you up to the striking granite peak of Pedra Bonita where you launch (along with the pilot) from 550 metres and a few kilometres inland from the beach.