It might seem unlikely that what was once a tiny fishing village is now one of our favourite South American seaside destinations, but once you set foot in Búzios you'll get it. With over 20 secluded beaches to choose from plus the opportunity to pump up the adrenalin with a range of water sports and some first-class nightlife, this is no run-of-the-mill resort town.

A cityscape start in rio

Often cited as one of the most beautiful areas in the world, the Búzios peninsula lies just 100 miles north of Rio and offers a low key alternative to the bustling Brazilian capital. But then a Brazilian Beach Party experience wouldn’t be complete without a few days in the city that never sleeps.

So before you head out to laid-back Búzios, spend a few days lapping up the luxury in the heart of Ipanema. Staying at the Fasano, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with the hip folk of Rio who flock to this Philippe Stark designed hotel. You'll have easy access to all the city’s glamour and glitz. And the best bit? Three of the hotel’s suites have spectacular views of the city's main attractions, the Christ statue atop Corcovado Mountain.

After two samba-fuelled evenings in Cidade Maravilhosa, the "marvellous city", you’ll be ready for Búzios. Long the haunt of film and rock stars, it remains an elite spot. What more could you ask for?

A búzios party from day to night

First and foremost are the beaches. Try a different strand every day of your holiday, each one with a special draw: head to Manguinhos or Rasa for some intense kite-surfing or take a boat to the secluded Azeda beach for a quiet day of sunbathing.

And did we mention the diving? Not only can you dive right in Búzios, but the best site in all of Brazil lies just 30 mins north in Arraial do Cabo.

While there, we recommend you stay in the elegant Casas Brancas hotel. This boutique hotel offers the height of Latin luxury with a Mediterranean twist. Relax in the spa or watch the sun go down with a capirinha from the terrace bar before dining on haute med-brazilian cuisine. Then, if you're feeling like a big night, take in the Rua da Pedras, within five minutes walk to the town's raucous after-hours scene. We can't think of a better way to spend a week, can you?