Digital nomads in Rio de Janeiro may find it tricky to balance productive remote work sessions with trips to the city’s famous beaches. But why not enjoy both?
While most of the beachy restaurants that line Copacabana and Ipanema are without WiFi, bathrooms, or plug outlets, there are a few standout exceptions to the trend.
Luckily, I’ve done the meticulous legwork for you. While living the digital nomad life in Rio de Janeiro, I found some key spots that allow you to enjoy the downtown vibe and ocean view, while also staying productive.
Without further ado, here are the best remote work spots, beach bars, and cafes with WiFi in Rio de Janeiro.
1. Tropik Beach Club
2. De Lamare
3. Açaí Concept
4. Selina Hostel and Co-Working
5. Gringo Cafe
1. Tropik Beach Club
Tropik became my hangout of choice. Since I was staying in Copacabana, it was great to have a spot nearby where I could work and enjoy the ocean view.
Located at the southernmost end of Copacabana Beach, this cafe is operated by the Fairmont Hotel. As a result it offers a slightly more upscale vibe than some of the other beachfront eateries — a vibe that includes fast internet and free bathroom use for customers.
No amount of exposure will ever stop me from viewing the concept of paid bathrooms with skepticism, especially since I try not to carry much cash on me. Peeing should be a basic human right, and for digital nomads there’s nothing worse than getting into a flow state, then having to pack up and leave to resolve an impending “flow state” of a different variety.
Details like these allow Tropik to beat out the competition for best remote work spot on Copacabana Beach, but they come at a slight cost. While the prices are a little higher than other places nearby, it’s still not expensive by international standards. I did find that the food menu left some to be desired; my recommendation would be to eat beforehand, then come to Tropik for work and a coffee.
2. De Lamare
De Lamare is to Ipanema what Tropik is to Copacabana.
This spot manages a secluded atmosphere amidst all the beach action, thanks to a wall of leafy foliage that separates customers from the street (don’t worry, there’s no plant life blocking out the beautiful view of the sea).
Internet? Check. Free bathrooms for customers? Check.
I only discovered DeLamarre towards the end of my trip, and while I didn’t try any of the food there, I do have to note that the menu looked far more stacked than Tropik’s, boasting food options for every time of day and even a list of creative house cocktails.
If I’d found it earlier, De Lamare could have stolen me away from Tropik.
3. Açaí Concept
If you’d rather work indoors amidst the blast of icy-cold air conditioning, but still want to enjoy some Brazilian flavor, look no further than Açaí Concept.
Açaí Concept, of course, specializes in açaí, the delicious frozen concoction that Brazilians can’t get enough of.
But this place takes it to a whole new level, allowing you to fill your own bowl with different types of açaí and related foods, add toppings like chocolate chips or shredded coconut, drizzle it with syrups, and then pay by weight.
It’s reminiscent of a frozen yogurt experience. With cold AC, fast internet, and a couple locations — including one that’s a block away from Copacabana Beach — it’s a great place to work (alas, no bathroom here, unfortunately).
4. Selina Hostel and Co-Working
The Selina brand is well-known across South America, and for good reason — the upbeat hostel/bar/co-working space offers something for everyone.
Access to a desk will cost you around $10 per day, with discounts for monthly bookings. The internet is fast, and since it’s a hostel, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet and network with other travelers and English-speakers.
With a beach-view location in Copacabana, and also one in the bohemian Lapa district, you can decide which vibe suits your needs.
5. Gringo Cafe
Closing out the list is Gringo Cafe, a casual spot just a few blocks from Ipanema Beach. As the name implies, you can expect some familiar, homestyle comfort here.
The gringo in question is owner Sam Flowers, an American who’s called Rio de Janeiro home for years. Enjoy all-day breakfast, WiFi, and a friendly atmosphere here under shaded outdoor seating.
If you need a break from açaí bowls and churrasca, give in to the temptation, and come here for American favorites like pancakes with syrup or chicken and waffles.
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There you have it. Between beachside hangouts, spots for frozen treats, and designated co-working spaces, there are plenty of places for digital nomads and remote workers in Rio de Janeiro.
Now all that’s left is for you to go forth and be productive (and maybe even enjoy a caipirinha or two as you close out your workday).
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