As someone from Brisbane, Australia, I can attest to the fact that we have some pretty amazing beaches in Queensland. However, the beaches here are something else entirely - the locals really know how to enjoy themselves with live music and refreshing coconuts. If you're in good company, all your worries will simply melt away. The people here are lovely too. I would caution visitors to be careful, though - it seems that many locals in Rio tend to overcharge or take advantage of foreigners. It's best to avoid the Favelas and be wary of anyone trying to sell you drugs on the beach. I speak from experience, having visited Rio twice with my wife, who is from São Paulo.