Sunbathers stretched out on plastic chairs, caipirinha cocktails being flogged by hawkers, all with samba music thumping in the background – it’s a scene almost guaranteed at Rio de Janeiro’s legendary Copacabana.
However, thanks to a new decree issued this month, all that could be set to change. A whole load of new rules for Rio’s waterfront are being brought in from June 1, meaning food and drink sales, deck chair rentals, speakers and live music will all be banned if businesses don’t acquire official permits.
For some, particularly elderly residents who live in the surrounding neighbourhoods, the announcement that the beach’s chaotic atmosphere is being reigned in (and that noise pollution will be brought under control) has been welcomed.
Maria Lucia Silva, a 65-year old resident, told euronews that ‘Nobody pays a very high property tax or absurd rents to have such a huge mess’, and said that the Copacabana is typically a neighbourhood for elderly people. However, not everyone agrees these rules are necessary.
‘It’s difficult to imagine Rio de Janeiro without bossa nova, without samba on the beach,’ said Julio Trindade, who works as a DJ in the kiosks. ‘While the world sings the Girl from Ipanema, we won’t be able to play it on the beach.’
Recommended: The cities tourists are ditching – and where they’re headed instead.
There are concerns that the new rules will be detrimental to the livelihoods of musicians and local vendors, as well as to Rio’s historically colourful, brilliant, noisy beach culture. According to a 2022 report by Rio’s City Hall, spending on the city’s beaches accrues around €621 million per year.
In response, the Brazilian Institute of Citizenship, a non-profit which defends social and consumer rights, filed a lawsuit to request that restrictions on live music be suspended as it compromises the ‘free exercise of economic activity’. The judge ruled that this group is not a legitimate party to complain, but they’re now appealing the decision.
Other efforts to undermine the decree include a bill discussed by Rio’s municipal assembly, which would be an alternative framework to regulate activities on the beach and boardwalks. While it includes restrictions on amplified music, it does not call for permits for live performers. If this bill is approved, it would take precedence over the decree, so not all hope is lost for Brazilian beach life.
Keep an eye on this page for all the latest updates on the restrictions.
In the meantime, have a look at our list of all the destinations across the planet that want tourists to stay away.
Did you see that this South American city was named the best in the world for green space and nature?
Plus: The underrated foodie destinations to visit in 2025, according to Airbnb.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.
