In the West part of town, not far from Barra da Tijuca and about an hour from downtown, Recreio dos Bandeirantes (or Recreio as the locals call it) is a white sand beach and clear waters, popular with surfers and locals. During low tide, there's a nice walk to a rocky hill, an easy climb for amazing views. Beyond the beach is a neighborhood of low-rise condominiums of the same name with its fair share of bars and restaurants. Nearby is the Chico Mendes Park and Prainha beach.