Head over the Joatinga bridge and you will find sitting at the north end of Barra da Tijuca is Praia do Pepê. Considered one of the trendiest beaches in Rio de Janeiro, it is filled with the beautiful people especially over the weekend. Pepê was the most famous hang glider in the area.  He was also one of the pioneers of surfing in Brazil. This beach is quite popular with long and short board surfers as well as kite boarders. The ocean breezes and the choppy water make this a perfect place to surf with September through December having the best conditions. In addition there is a rescue and support crew in the area which makes this beach one of the safest as well. Several schools in the area such as Frajola Kitesurf School on Av. Do Pepê will teach novices surfing and kite boarding. Kite surfing championships are held here throughout the year. Some of the best shopping is located in this area. BarraShopping, the largest mall in Brazil contains nearly 700 facilities to shop, eat and play. Other shopping areas include the New York City Center and Via Parque.