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Surf in Rio de Janeiro: Best beaches and prices
Discover the best spots to surf in Rio de Janeiro here, along with the ideal time of year and the costs involved.
Do you want to go surfing in Rio de Janeiro? Here we tell you the best places to surf, the best seasons, and the prices you should expect to pay for this sport in the Brazilian city.
We also created a guide to show you how to start surfing in a destination like Rio de Janeiro, which is globally recognised for this sport. We want you to catch every detail in this article, so you’ll have more information when you decide to begin this adventure on the sea.
Best Places to Surf in Rio de Janeiro
In this Brazilian city, there are spots suitable for surfers of all levels. Don’t worry, we’ll describe the 5 best spots in Rio de Janeiro so you can surf the best waves according to your experience.
1. Arpoador
Between Ipanema and Copacabana lies this beach in southern Rio de Janeiro. This is where the surfing culture of the city began, attracting top world-ranking surfers during the high season.
Arpoador features rocky areas that create waves ideal for beginner surfers. Although the depth is shallow and waves break and lose some intensity as they reach the shore, they still have good consistency.
More experienced surfers stay further out, seeking waves that haven’t yet hit the rocky barrier. Even though no major events take place here, surf schools are located in this area to teach beginners and intermediate surfers.
2. Praia do Diabo
Close to Ipanema and Arpoador lies Praia do Diabo, which, despite its scary name, is a small paradise contrasting rocks, vegetation, and calmness with strong, consistent waves ideal for experienced and intermediate surfers.
It isn’t a very crowded surfing spot, so you can try the waves as often as you like and enjoy some peace. However, sometimes the sea can change and get rougher. In those cases, pay attention to the lifeguards’ instructions.
3. Prainha
It is a place suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers, as its environment, despite the dense surrounding vegetation, is rocky, which means you need proper technique to avoid injury when falling on the rocks.
It’s located west of Rio de Janeiro in an environmentally protected area, and the waves are stronger, more consistent, and intense than other similar beaches, ideal for surfers who enjoy challenges.
It’s recommended to surf mainly on weekdays, as weekends attract more tourists who occupy much of the coastline, making it harder for surfers to move freely.
4. Saquarema
This beach is a world-class spot, where surfers from many countries gather to challenge the strong and consistent tubular waves. To reach Saquarema, you must travel 2 hours east of Rio de Janeiro.
Here you can witness competitions such as world championships or qualifiers, the World Surf League, and events like the Banco do Brasil Saquarema Pro. Not only can you surf in Saquarema, but also learn from the best.
5. Barra da Tijuca
It is a long beach with up to 18 kilometres of coastline, where surfers of all levels can face different swells arriving at this coast. Some areas have gentler waves, while experts have a clearly defined zone with strong and consistent waves.
Barra da Tijuca is appreciated for its calm, nature-filled environment. It is even considered an ideal spot for surfers’ families to spend time there. Around the area, you can also find hotels, restaurants, and other surf-related businesses.
Connectivity while surfing in Rio de Janeiro
In Rio de Janeiro, you can stay connected with the monthly subscription plans from Holafly, which provide unlimited data or 25 GB to share with other devices. Additionally, you can travel to over 170 countries worldwide thanks to global coverage.
If you only plan to spend a couple of weeks or days surfing in Rio de Janeiro, we recommend the Holafly Brazil eSIM, which gives you unlimited data for the exact days you need.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Recommended surfing seasons in Rio de Janeiro
There are two seasons recommended for surfing in Rio de Janeiro, but it depends on your experience and interests. We’ll explain how it works so you can decide the best time of year for you.
High season
The most suitable season for experienced surfers in Rio de Janeiro is winter, which runs from April to October. During these months, you can surf strong swells coming from the South Atlantic.
The waves are high, powerful, and frequent. The winds become surfers’ allies, and the temperature is relatively low, around 21°C (70°F). This season also sees fewer tourists compared to summer crowds.
Rainfall is minimal, with more sunshine and less precipitation. Everything is ideal for surfers to enjoy their sport. A major advantage in Rio is that surf shops and services stay active all year round.
Low season
Between November and March, temperatures are higher, the sun is stronger, and more tourists and beginner surfers arrive from around the world. Waves are calmer and less frequent but still suitable for surfing.
If you’re a novice surfer, these months are great to hire a surf school and improve your skills. However, we advise moderation in your time at sea, as high temperatures can be challenging.
It’s also important to choose less crowded beaches to optimise learning and progress faster in your surfing experience.
Costs for surfing in Rio de Janeiro
In Rio de Janeiro, you can choose the costs you want to pay, as there are accommodations, restaurants, and surf schools at all price ranges, depending on your lifestyle and budget.
Still, we’ve listed the main costs you should expect when surfing in this destination. Keep in mind that prices may vary for several reasons, such as the change from low to high season.
- Accommodation: You can find shared dorms from $30 (€27.30) per night, guesthouses for $60 (€54.60) per night, and hotels from $75 (€68.25) up to $450 (€409.50) per night.
- Food: In Rio de Janeiro, you can buy daily meals or ready-to-eat dishes from $6 (€5.45) to $9 (€8.18). In a mid-range restaurant, a meal costs between $35 (€31.82) and $50 (€45.45). Cooking yourself can cost around $50 (€45.45) per day.
- Surf packages: With instructor, transport, and equipment, a half-day package (4 hours at major surf spots) costs between $80 (€72.70) and $100 (€90.90).
- Beginner lessons: Per class, prices range from $15 (€13.64) to $30 (€27.27). Some schools offer packages that reduce the total cost.
- Board rental: Daily rates depend on the board and the rental company, usually between $15 (€13,64) and $25 (€22.73) per day.
How to start surfing in Rio de Janeiro
There are several aspects to consider when starting surfing in a destination like Rio de Janeiro. It’s important to be aware of risks, techniques, and the safest spots for beginners. Here are some other factors in detail:
- Learn about the most suitable beaches: Starting to surf isn’t as simple as taking a board and entering the sea. Some areas are riskier, and waves are so challenging that only experts can handle them. That’s why it’s important to choose your beach carefully.
- Hire a surf school: Part of your success in surfing depends on having a good instructor who teaches and monitors your safety. Locate the best surf schools in Rio de Janeiro and take lessons with them.
- Rent the right equipment: While gaining experience, your board should suit beginners. Beginner boards are usually bigger, wider, and more buoyant, unlike boards for more experienced surfers.
- Other tips: Wear suitable surf clothing that also protects you from the sun. Apply sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Stay hydrated and have snacks ready for different moments while surfing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it’s important to follow the lifeguards’ instructions, as they are experts at anticipating risks in the sea. You should also follow your instructors’ advice to avoid injuries, especially in rocky areas.
Rio de Janeiro offers several options for beginner surfers. Some of the best are Arpoador, Tijuca Beach, and Macumba, which usually have gentler yet consistent waves.
Choosing the right swimwear for surfing depends on the time of year you’re in Rio de Janeiro. For example, in summer, men typically wear shorts and a rash guard. For women, a rash guard swimsuit is also a good choice, keeping the body cool. In winter, a wetsuit is recommended.
You can learn on your own. However, taking surf lessons is highly recommended, as it’s the safest and fastest way to improve your skills in this water sport.
It’s not necessary to bring your own board, though it helps to get used to your equipment. Rio de Janeiro offers many agencies where you can rent good-quality surfboards.
