Arpoador is Brazil's most iconic urban surf spot, a rocky point break between Ipanema and Copacabana that has been the heart of Rio's surf scene for over 50 years. The wave is lit at night for after-dark sessions, a unique feature that has made it famous worldwide. The left peels along the rocks toward the beach, offering clean walls when SE swells wrap in. The sunset views from the rock are legendary, drawing crowds of spectators who applaud as the sun dips below the horizon.
Water temp
23°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
9/10
Peak: Mar-Oct
Best in autumn/winter
🌴 Iconic Copa • Heavy shorebreak • Urban surf
🌊 Rio's big wave spot • Handles size • Powerful rights
🪂 Rob Machado's Rio favorite • Fast hollow A-frames • Hang glider landing zone
🛡️ Protected bay • Beginner option • Itacoatiara alternative
🌊 All levels option • Niterói reliability • Less crowded
🏢 18km of peaks • Former CT venue • Modern Rio