In addition to Leme Beach’s enviable sands, many visitors also head up to the Morro do Leme for aerial views. The rocky outcropping is also home to the Forte Duque de Caxias (also known as the Forte do Leme), a historic military base that’s now open for public visits. Thanks to its central location, Leme Beach is easy to explore independently. It also features on numerous sightseeing itineraries, including walking tours, private excursions, and hiking tours of Rio’s top viewpoints.
Because the undertow and waves can be quite powerful, Leme Beach is best suited for strong swimmers. Never enter the water when red flags are displayed.
Leme Beach is generally safe, but it’s still wise to leave your valuables in your hotel room and depart before the beach gets dark.
One of the most popular hangout spots in Leme is the Mureta do Leme: a small wall that offers views overlooking the beach, flanked by a kiosk selling drinks and snacks.
Leme Beach is on the northeasternmost stretch of Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro’s South Zone (Zona Sul). If using public transport, take the Metrô to Cardeal Arcoverde/Copacabana station, just a few minutes away on foot. The area is also served by numerous bus lines, and can also be reached by taxis and rideshare services.
Leme is rarely as crowded as neighboring Copacabana but tends to be busiest on weekends. The warm months—roughly from November to March—are a refreshing time to take a dip, and it’s worth staying until sunset for impressive views. Leme Beach also hosts Rio’s beachfront New Year’s Eve celebrations every year.
Rio de Janeiro’s beaches are internationally celebrated—and for good reason. With their extraordinary scenery, surfer-and-swimmer-friendly waves, see-and-be-seen crowds, and all-around festive environment, the city’s beaches are hard to beat. In addition to Leme, other popular options include Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon, while lesser-known favorites include the Red Beach, São Conrado Beach, and Barra da Tijuca Beach.
