A few of the highlights from my neighborhood – my hotel, the arches, the Cathedral, the buildings with the cross cut out, the Selaron Steps to my left, and the Petrobras building is just off to the right. The park is further to the right and behind.
If you want to stay at the beach there are plenty of options but if you want to be within walking distance of so much good stuff, and seven minutes to the Metro, I highly recommend Lapa for a home base.