A recent contest promoted by Viaje Aqui, a Brazilian travel website, presented voters with the task of choosing the most beautiful deserted beach in Brazil among 32 entries. The winner – Praia do Sancho, one of the wonders of the Fernando de Noronha archipelago, in Pernambuco, was not exactly a surprise. Seeing Lopes Mendes, another island favorite, in 9th place, might be surprising – but with so many good choices, it was a tough call.

Whether you visit one of the top 10 deserted beaches or follow the lure of other gems further down the ranking, I hope you will find they are being cared for as they should. Sustainable tourism has grown steadily in Brazil and controlled access, such as in Noronha, is one of the answers to preservation challenges.

Photo of Fernando de Noronha courtesy of Recife Convention & Visitors Bureau, Pernambuco