Rio de Janeiro tends to attract a party-loving set, and the opportunity to dance all night and laze on a beach are a large part of the city's appeal to play-hard visitors. But while the beaches of Rio are undoubtedly beautiful, they also tend to be both densely packed and awash with beach vendors, which seriously diminishes their chill-out appeal. If you're looking for unspoiled sands and splendid isolation to help recover from serious partying in Rio, you'll need to head out of the city itself. 

Luckily for visitors who are time-pressed, party-worn or just looking for a fun trip with zero hassles, Cruz the Coast Brazil tours can whisk groups along to the best beach spots in Rio de Janeiro state (or further afield), with time for fun extras such as jungle trekking with dips in natural pools, barbecues and even caipirinha-making classes.  

Cruz the Coast tours take in stunning Brazil beaches — Photo courtesy of Cruz the Coast

Run by Irish-Australian husband and wife team Jane and Jonathan, these Rio state tours take all the hassle out of seeing the best of this glorious region, thanks to comfortable buses, door-to-door pick ups, the option of pre-arranged accommodation, help with onward trips and bi-lingual tour guides.

There are two options for four-day loops within Rio de Janeiro state - along the Blue Coast to the surfer haven of Arraial do Cabo and chic beach resort of Buzios, or down the verdant Costa Verde (literally, "Green Coast") to the perfectly preserved colonial town of Paraty - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - and out to the vast nature reserve island of Ilha Grande. 

For those with the time and inclination to explore further afield, Cruz the Coast also operate 10-day trips up the coast right up to the northeast of Brazil - taking in giant sand dunes, wonderfully isolated beaches and islands, colorful colonial towns and wild jungle along the way. 

With all the hassles of travel in Brazil taken care of, Cruz the Coast travelers can concentrate on having fun. They'll get the option to take part in as many or as few of the organized trips and activities as they have the energy for. Cruz the Coast can also arrange accommodation at every step of the trip, or they'll drop off passengers at their chosen locations, should they choose to make their own arrangements.

Cruz the Coast has a stellar reputation among adventurous, fun-seeking visitors to Rio, and the tours are an excellent opportunity to make new friends and companions for future travels. Prices start at US $300 for the Rio loops with dorm accommodation, but travelers are free to choose lodgings to suit their travel style and budget.