Surfing Guide to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

• Summary

• When to go

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/things to know

• Surf spots

   

Summary

A big part of Brazilian culture comes from the ocean, beaches and of course, surfing. They represent a place of gathering and celebration for all Brazilians.

 

To find the best surfing destination for you, try our WaveFinder search engine!

 

This is all even more accurate in Rio, where surfing is very popular with a huge amount of surf spots up and down the coast.

 

Rio has no restrictions when it comes to surfing skills as there are many surf schools to help beginners get into the sport, while experts will be able to get challenged by some heavy beach breaks surrounding the city.

 

Most surf spots in Rio will suffer from massive crowds. However, some people prefer surfing at night when spotlights from the beach will light up the ocean.

 

It is an ideal destination for a good all around surf trip with good vibes, food and cultural discoveries.

 

 

When to go

Surfing is good and consistent all year in Rio. However, the Atlantic lights up and sends bigger waves over the winter months, from April to October.

For beginners, the most enjoyable period would probably be over summer with smaller waves and slightly warmer weather.

 

Where to stay in Rio 

Rio is massive and as a surfer, you will want to be as close to the beach as possible. Two good options are Saquarema, which is a bit further outside of Rio to the north, or Arpoador, just on the other side of Copacabana.

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation in Rio!

Getting there

Fly straight into Rio, which has a big international airport. As most spots are not located right in the bay, having a car is probably the best option to reach beaches like Saquarema which are a bit out of the city.

Safety/things to know

-Beaches and surf spots can get VERY crowded
-Respect the locals, things can heat up quickly

Surf spots in Rio de Janeiro

Arpoador

South of Copacabana, Arpoador is a beach break offering some nice lefts for surfers of all skill levels. Much more consistent in winter, waves can reach up to 10 feet! Like most surf spots around Rio, crowds are a factor.

Wave direction : Left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : SE
Optimal wind direction : NE

 

 

Itacoatiara

A powerful and hollow beach break north of Rio located in a small bay. Left point break and right point break. Both are more suitable for experienced surfers.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Mid to high
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : N

 

 

Saquarema

Very popular beach break located north of Rio, Saquarema is home of the World Surf League once a year for a WCT event. This surf spot should suit surfers of all levels. Beginners can catch the rollers on the inside while advanced surfers can have a go at a few barrels at the point.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : S
Optimal wind direction : N

 

 

Grumari

Next to Prainha is this consistent beach break offering lefts and rights on a beautiful sandbar. It is a very nuce option for poeple looking to get away from the Rio crowds as it usually isn’t as crowded as the other beaches closer to the big city. Breaks better on a SSW swell and a north wind.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
Optimal swell direction : S
Optimal wind direction : N

 

 

Prainha

A very consistent beach break located further down the coast near Praia de Grumari. Works on the south swell and offers good conditions throughout the year. Summer will be smaller and more fickle.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : S
Optimal wind direction : NW