Barra da Tijuca
Barra da Tijuca is Rio's sprawling 18km beach that has hosted WSL Championship Tour events. The long stretch offers multiple peaks that shift with the sandbars, giving surfers plenty of options to spread out. Posto 4 is the traditional surf hub, but quality waves can be found along the entire length. The modern high-rise backdrop contrasts with the natural beauty of the ocean.
Barra da Tijuca surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSE (157°)
- Direction range
- 135° - 200°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 315° - 45°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
22°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
7/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Barra da Tijuca?
The Barra da Tijuca profile does not specify a preferred tide stage. That does not mean tide has no effect: check local conditions alongside swell and wind.
What wind direction is offshore at Barra da Tijuca?
The Barra da Tijuca profile uses wind from N (0°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 315° to 45°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Barra da Tijuca?
The Barra da Tijuca scoring profile favors swell from SSE (135° to 200°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 12s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Barra da Tijuca?
The main season at Barra da Tijuca is Mar-Oct. Year-round with SE/S swells
How do I get to Barra da Tijuca?
The spot profile lists GIG as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 35 minutes.
What kind of wave is Barra da Tijuca?
Barra da Tijuca is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Year-round with SE/S swells
Getting There
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