A long urban beach running roughly seven kilometres along the south side of the city, backed by a wall of apartment buildings and the wide Avenida Boa Viagem. At low tide the offshore reef forms shallow natural pools that are safe for swimming; outside the pools the water is patrolled and signposted because of shark activity.
The promenade is busy from early morning runners through evening dog walkers. Kiosks sell coconuts, fried snacks, and beer the length of the beach. Pick a stretch close to your hotel and take the local advice on which sections are safe for swimming.