The strip of sand between the Copacabana Palace and Rua Fernandes Mendes is the neighbourhood's answer to posto 8 in Ipanema, frequented by the local (and tourist) gay, lesbian and transvestite fraternity. Given the neighbourhood's rep, its not quite as safe as its upmarket sibling, so be sure to keep your wits about you, but the impromptu shows and general atmosphere as the sun goes down make it a good place to kick back and soak it all in.