Santa Cruz Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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.
Ipanema Beach
Join the crowds of sun-worshippers at this world-famous beach, the epitome of Rio’s outdoor lifestyle.
Christ the Redeemer
Famous the world over for the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer at its summit, this mountain peak is one of the top attractions in Rio.
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.
Sugar Loaf Mountain
Enjoy stunning views of Rio de Janeiro’s beaches and landmarks as you ascend this iconic mountain peak.
Activities
Grumari, Prainha & Pontal Beach Day Tour with Transfer
Pedra do Telegrafo - Trail with Tour Guide and Transportation at the Hotel
Pedra do Telegrafo Hiking Tour with the Best Tour Operator in Rio
Our pick of the best Santa Cruz Hotel Deals
Lagune Barra Hotel
Amazing hotel little far from the many places but worth it for the money.
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Regency Barra Hotel
Awaso
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
Grand Hyatt Rio De Janeiro
Hosts at restaurants need to be more polite
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Hilton Barra Rio De Janeiro
Perfeito
Reviewed on 31 Dec 2025
Américas Barra Hotel
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Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
Windsor Marapendi
Excelente ubicación frente a la playa las habitaciones están bien y son amplias la piscina del Hotel en la terraza es algo pequeña pero con una vista excelente. El personal del Front Desk no es muy amable, tampoco son maleducados, pero no sonríen ni de casualidad. Un punto muy malo es el Wi-Fi, en ...
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
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.
Alto da Boa Vista
Alto da Boa Vista is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Christ the Redeemer and Tijuca National Park.
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.
