Santa Cruz Travel Guide
Rio de Janeiro
Visit Santa Cruz
Popular places to visit
Copacabana Beach
More than just a stretch of sand, Rio de Janeiro’s most famous beach is where locals and visitors from all over the world come to relax, strut, pose and play.
Christ the Redeemer
This mountain rising out of the city center is most well known as the home of Rio’s iconic skyscraper-sized Jesus statue.
Ipanema Beach
See the place that inspired a famous song about a bikini at this upscale beach.
Maracanã Stadium
To truly appreciate Brazil’s obsession with “the beautiful game,” watch a match or take a guided tour of one of the world’s largest and most historic soccer stadiums.
Avenida Atlantica
Golden sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, walking paths and some of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular neighborhoods surround this bustling seaside avenue.
Sugar Loaf Mountain
Scale this mountain on foot or by cable car to see impressive views of Rio’s beaches, rain forests and its most famous statue.
Things to do
Grumari, Prainha & Pontal Beach Day Tour with Transfer
Sitio Roberto Burle Marx Guided Tour, Admission & Transfer
Rio de Janeiro Helicopter Tour – Scenic Flights Over Landmarks
Private Helicopter Flight Tour: Rio de Janeiro Landmarks
Top hotels in Santa Cruz
Regency Barra Hotel
"Muy buena atención, y el lija hermoso. Muy cómodo para disfrutar de la playa"
Reviewed on 15 Jun 2026
Grand Hyatt Rio De Janeiro
"It is located directly across from the beach. I like that. You must cross a busy highway to get to the beach. there are restaurants on the property. They do not offer inclusive meal plan. You can purchase food from street vendors on the beach side of the street. There is no night life and no shopping ..."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Windsor Marapendi
"Great experience! English-speaking staff made it so easy. Location is in a very safe area. Breakfast buffet was incredible and we were so glad they had protein (eggs, bacon, and yogurts)--which was not available in other Brazilian hotels we stayed at, as carbs/cake are often served for breakfast. ..."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Lagune Barra Hotel
"Location is close to the beach as well as shopping, I enjoyed it immensely."
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Laghetto Stilo Barra
"Great hotel"
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Américas Barra Hotel
Where to stay in Santa Cruz
Copacabana
Copacabana Beach and Bairro Peixoto are top sights in Copacabana, and you should be sure to explore the stunning beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Siqueira Campos Station or Cardeal Arcoverde Station to see more sights in the area.
Ipanema
Ipanema is highly notable for its stunning beaches, and you might want to visit top sights like Ipanema Beach and Rua Farme de Amoedo. See more of Rio de Janeiro by jumping on the metro at Nossa Senhora da Paz Station or Ipanema-General Osorio Station.
Barra da Tijuca
If you're spending time in Barra da Tijuca, you might enjoy attractions like Barra Shopping Mall and Village Mall. You might also enjoy the neighbourhood's pristine beaches before hopping on the metro at Jardim Oceânico Station to see more of the city.
Leblon
Consider exploring the beaches in Leblon. If sightseeing is on the list, Ipanema Beach is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Antero de Quental Station or Jardim de Alah - Leblon Station to see more of the area.
Botafogo
Botafogo is a destination travellers like for its beaches, and you might hop aboard the metro at Botafogo Station or Futura estação Morro de São João Station to explore sights like Botafogo Praia Shopping.
