With miles upon miles of sun-kissed beaches edged by deep blue water, it’s hardly surprising that some of Rio de Janeiro’s best accommodation options are along its golden coastline. Of course, the city’s beachfront hotels are more expensive than others further inland; but to wake up to ocean views every day and a sun-dappled balcony, it’s definitely worth it if your budget allows. Here are the best beachfront hotels in Rio de Janeiro.
Overlooking Ipanema beach and the Two Brother peaks, The Sofitel Ipanema (once Caesar Park) is one of Ipanema’s finest hotels with 222 rooms some of which boast breathtaking ocean views. Its prestigious location in Ipanema gives guests easy access to the surrounding high-end restaurants and local bars and the hotel’s shuttle bus transports guests to all of the city’s major tourist destinations. The Sofitel Ipanema has one of the best spots in Ipanema to watch the sunset next to the Two Brothers peaks, which is one of the most stunning in Rio.
The Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel has its own beach right in front of the hotel, perfect for quiet afternoons of basking in the sun without the noise and activity as more popular shorelines have. The hotel itself is flawless – polished marble floors throughout, high ceilings, and attentive service leave no doubt of its five-star rating and amenities include an on-site golf course, tennis courts, and a fully-equipped spa. Upgraded rooms have stunning ocean views.
This beauty of a hotel is located on the famous Avenida Atlantica, the road that runs parallel to the iconic Copacabana Beach. It keeps up with the competition with its ocean-view rooms, welcoming service, and modern, well-kept appearance. Especially appealing is that its rooms have balconies, allowing guests to leisurely sit outside and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and the hustle and bustle of Copacabana. In addition to its beachside location, the PortoBay Rio Internacional is also surrounded by a series of transport connections.
Despite rising competition from other luxurious and more modern hotels, Copacabana Palace remains Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic hotel. You can either make the most of the glamorous swimming pool or enjoy the afternoons with fresh fruit at the reserved section on Copacabana Beach exclusive to hotel guests. The hotel maintains a classic style with polished marble floors, elegant chandeliers, and glossy wood finishings. Try getting a suite on the top floors to enjoy the ocean views.
It can be hard to leave the rooms at the Fasano Hotel with their contemporary style, elegant furniture, and huge beds complete with Egyptian cotton pyjamas to curl up and sleep in. However, once you’re on the balcony, you’ll find it almost impossible to tear yourself away from the gorgeous view of Ipanema beach and the bright blue sea. The best place to be though is the rooftop with a well-stocked cocktail bar and an unrivaled viewpoint to see the sunset across the ocean (one of the best in Rio).
The Emiliano Hotel in Copacabana – the same brand as the Emiliano in São Paulo – oozes exclusivity and excellence and its striking panel facade brings a modern edge to the otherwise traditional neighborhood. Located right in front of Copacabana Beach, guests enjoy panoramic views of Rio’s most iconic shoreline. Other highlights at the hotel include the rooftop and swimming pool and the living wall of the restaurant which is alive with exotic plants.
Located in the heart of Copacabana, the exclusive Pestana Hotel enjoys a privileged spot right in front of the iconic Copacabana Beach. With modern, stylish rooms, guests can enjoy a luxurious setting while soaking up panoramic views of Rio’s most famous coastline from the comfort of the hotel. The best beach view is on the hotel’s rooftop with its swimming pool which is open just for guests during the day yet opens to the public at night for live music and cocktails.
