Santa Cruz Travel Guide
Rio de Janeiro
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.
Flamengo Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Flamengo Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Rio de Janeiro. Take in the art scene and sunsets in the area.
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? While you're in the area, wander around the parks.
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.
Things to do
Grumari, Prainha & Pontal Beach Day Tour with Transfer
Sunset on Palmas Island: Rio’s Hidden Gem with Telegraph Stone
Pedra do Telegrafo - Trail with Tour Guide and Transportation at the Hotel
Sitio Roberto Burle Marx Guided Tour, Admission & Transfer
Top hotels in Santa Cruz
Regency Barra Hotel
Regency Hotel is amazing. It is located in front of Barra da Tijuca beach at Posto 7. Close to some restaurants, supermarkets and bars. The staff is very friendly and Polite. The breakfast is amazing and the room is spacious. So, I really recommend this hotel to anyone who wants to stay in Barra ...
Reviewed on 26 Oct 2025
Grand Hyatt Rio De Janeiro
Very clean. Beach front
Reviewed on 11 Oct 2025
Lagune Barra Hotel
Great stay. Staff polite, efficient. Lovely room with amazing views. Nice rooftop pool and bar. Def 5/5 for me.
Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025
Américas Barra Hotel
totally understaffed, Poor coordination between pool bar and kitchen. Poolbar not open during hours. Poor service
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025
Windsor Marapendi
Bathrooms are old - jetted tub n bidet. Outdated decor in rooms. Breakfast buffets are excellent. Dinner buffets are ok.
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
Hilton Barra Rio De Janeiro
Great hotel, Great service.
Reviewed on 27 Sept 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Santa Cruz
Recreio dos Bandeirantes
You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Recreio dos Bandeirantes. You might want to make time for a stop at Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach or Posto 12.
Jacarepagua
You'll enjoy the live music and parks in Jacarepagua. You might want to make time for a stop at Shopping Metropolitano Barra or Tijuca Lake.
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.
São Conrado
Discover São Conrado, memorable for its beaches. Popular attractions in São Conrado include Sao Conrado Beach and Pedra da Gavea, and you can see more of the area by hopping on the metro at São Conrado Station.
Tijuca
Tijuca is well liked for its mountain views and churches. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Shopping Tijuca and Tijuca National Park are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Uruguai / Tijuca Station or Saens Pena Station to get around.
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.
