South America | Destination Guides

7 Brazilian beaches to celebrate a special ‘White Christmas’

Recently updated on July 18th, 2023 at 09:04 am

To get away from all of the hustle and bustle of the holidays, why not head to a sunny beach destination to unwind? With over 7,000 miles of coastline, there’s no better place to do this than in Brazil. Brazil is home to some of the best beaches in the world complete with soft-white sand, year-round sunshine and gorgeous natural landscapes. While you’ll be hard pressed to find a beach in the country that isn’t worth visiting, we’ve narrowed our selection down to 7 of the most beautiful Brazilian beaches to escape to on Christmas.

1. Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro

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Copacabana is known as one of the best beaches in the world, and for good reason. It spans over 4 kilometres of the coastline with soft white sand and the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain in the backdrop. More than just a place to relax and soak up the sun, Copacabana offers an array of things to do for the entire family, from strolling along the boardwalk and shopping at the local kiosks, to participating in activities like volleyball or paddle boarding.

With Trafalgar, we’ll take you to Copacabana Beach to experience it in all its glory. In fact, the hotel you’ll be staying at in Rio de Janeiro offers rooms overlooking the water and mountains. A wonderful view to wake up to on Christmas morning!

EXPERIENCE THIS ON: South America Revealed

2. Aproador, Rio de Janeiro

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Less popular than Copacabana, but equally as noteworthy is Aproador. Located on a peninsula in the southern region of Rio de Janeiro, it attracts sunworshippers and adventure-seekers of all levels and is known to be one of the best surfing destinations in the city.

Because of its location, this urban beach doesn’t require you to travel far to find something to eat or drink — locals are often found sipping on a traditional cachaça. Aproador is especially popular at night where locals and tourists alike gather on the rocks to watch the spectacular sunset.

RELATED CONTENT: Brazil’s National Drink: Cachaça

3.  Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha

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Another beach that frequently tops the charts as one of the best in the world is Baia do Sancho. Located in UNESCO-listed Fernando de Noronha, which is an island made of submerged volcanic mountains, Sancho is a secluded paradise featuring natural landscapes, an abundance of wildlife and crystal-clear blue waters. In addition to its sheer beauty, the region is also known for its population of tropical seabirds, turtle nesting and as being a stop on Charles Darwin’s famous Beagle expedition in 1839. Christmas here would be nothing short of perfection!

RELATED CONTENT: 4 of the best things to do in Brazil with Trafalgar

4. Praia dos Carneiros, Tamadaré

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If you find yourself in Recife or Tamadaré over Christmas, Praia dos Carneiros is a must-visit beach to soak up the sun. This picturesque spot is made up of sky-scraping coconut trees, white sand and beautiful blue water that’s warm year-round. Nearby you’ll find an assortment of restaurants and bars where you can sit back, relax and enjoy traditional Brazilian cuisine.

Carneiros is also known for the 18th century church that sits in the middle of the beach. The church is still sometimes used for marriages and baptisms, but more frequently as an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity.

RELATED CONTENT: 10 essential Brazilian dishes you need to try

5. Praia da Pipa, Natal

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Whether you’re looking for adventure, nightlife or a truly relaxing beach experience for Christmas, there’s something for everyone at the lovely Praia de Pipa. This natural beauty features pink cliffs, lagoons, natural pools, sandy beaches, surfer-friendly waves and crystal-clear water that dolphins like to frequent. In the 1970s, it became known as a hub for hippies and surfers and its cool, laidback charm can still be felt today.

6. Imbassaí Beach, Salvador

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Outside of Salvador lies Imbassaí, a beautiful tropical beach that’s perfect for relaxing and connecting with nature. Here you’ll find an abundance of picture-perfect coconut trees, turtles and, if you’re lucky, whales, although they are normally spotted from July to October.

RELATED CONTENT: No Latin America bucket list is complete without these 5 experiences

7. Praia do Gonzaga, Santos, São Paulo

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If you’re looking for somewhere that not only has excellent beaches, but is also filled with sightseeing opportunities, look no further than Praia do Gonzaga in São Paulo’s region of Santos. On the one hand, you have a place to relax under the hot sun with mountain views over the ocean, and on the other hand you have a city filled with local attractions to discover.

Which of these beautiful Brazilian beaches would you like to celebrate Christmas at? Let us know in the comments!

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