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Drive-In Beach? Popular Brazilian Getaway Packed for Summer

The Brazilian town of Salinopolis welcomes an estimated 280,000 visitors during the month of July.
Image: A view of thousands of beachgoers during the peak of the summer vacation season on Atalaia beach in Salinopolis
Thousands of beachgoers visit during the peak of the summer vacation season on Atalaia beach in Salinopolis, Para state, Brazil ,on July 27, 2014.PAULO SANTOS / Reuters

During the month of July, the Brazilian town of Salinopolis expands from its population of 40,000 to welcome an estimated 280,000 visitors. People flock to enjoy the beaches located just southeast of the Amazon river's mouth, where the river's fresh water mixes with the Atlantic Ocean's saltwater. Officials estimate that close to 50,000 vehicles drive onto the city's two most popular beaches, Atalaia and Farol Velho, with tons of garbage left by visitors.

Image: Youths run along sand dunes during the peak of the summer vacation season on Atalaia beach in Salinopolis
Youths run along sand dunes during the peak of the summer vacation season on Atalaia beach in Salinopolis, Brazil on July 27, 2014.PAULO SANTOS / Reuters