Prainha Beach is a smaller isolated surfer beach a short drive southwest from Barra da Tijuca. A half-crescent with clean sands and clear waters surrounded by the rainforest-covered slopes of the Grumari APA (Environmental Protection Area), Prainha is popular with surfers and anyone who’s willing to explore Rio’s outer shores for a day of peace and beauty. The half-moon shaped beach is bordered on each side by rocks and high cliffs, causing the waves to come in fast and with multiple breaks. The under current is very strong here, and only experienced surfers ride these waves. Casual beach goers should only enter the water to about waist deep, as the undertow will pull you out to sea! There is usually just one lifeguard who patrols the area.