As the tide ebbs at Taipus de Fora, it leaves behind brilliant, turquoise reef pools perfect for viewing an assortment of colorful tropical fish.
André Solnik, Creative Commons
Praia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha —
Often voted Brazil's best beach, Praia do Sancho is accessible only via ladders attached to the cliff face or by boat.
Nicholas Bittencourt, Creative Commons
Ipanema, Zona Sul, Rio de Janeiro —
Of Rio's famed Zona Sul beaches, Ipanema is a classic choice.
Michael Regan/Getty Images
Mirante do Leblon, Rio de Janeiro —
Just down the sand from Ipanema, Leblon provides a quieter beach experience
VANDERLEI ALMEIDA/AFP/Getty Images
Praia dos Carneiros, Pernambuco —
Palm-backed Carneiros beach is privately owned, by a single family, which has kept it from being overrun
Joe Robinson
Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco —
Small sailboats (jangadas) take you out to explore crystalline reef pools off low-key Porto de Galinhas beach, which are great for snorkeling and swimming.
Otávio Nogueira, Creative Commons
Porto da Barra, Salvador, Bahia —
Porto da Barra is one of the few beaches in lively Salvador that faces west, so you can catch great sunsets.
Turismo Bahia, Creative Commons
Praia da Pipa, Rio Grande do Norte —
A former backpacker's hangout, Praia da Pipa's attractions are the steep pink cliffs rising above the sand and healthy remnants of the great Atlantic Forest that once covered the coast.