She plays a super hero on tv, but when she’s not busy trying to save the world, “Heroes” star Hayden Panettiere transforms into her alter ego — bikini beach girl.

We spotted the fun-loving beach bunny looking radiant and chic in a bright candy-striped, Vix Halter bikini this summer at Venice Beach.

And we can understand her love of Vix swimwear — the brand is known for creating flashy fashion with a Brazilian flair that is both youthful yet Sophisticated.

Among the VIX 2009 swimwear collection are exotic animal prints, bold stripes and unique details and embellishments.

So if you can’t make it to the sexy beaches of Brazil, wearing a Vix bikini is the next best thing. You can easily find wonderful colors and whimsical styles.

But we really love the brand’s signature d-ring embellishments on many of their halter bikini tops and bandeaus. Expect to see even more exciting pieces from this brand in 2009.

Photo credit: National Photo Group