Leblon Pontão
Leblon Pontão is where Rio's big wave surfers go when massive SW swells hit the coast. The rocky point at the end of Leblon beach produces powerful rights that hold serious size, making it one of the few spots in the city that doesn't close out on larger days. The wave is fast, punchy, and rewards experienced surfers who commit to the drop.
Leblon Pontão surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (202°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 247°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2m - 2.6m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 0° - 90°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
Water temp
23°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
6/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wave is Leblon Pontão?
Leblon Pontão is a point break in Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil, that mostly breaks right.
What swell works best at Leblon Pontão?
Leblon Pontão picks up swell from the S round to the WSW, and it's best when it's coming straight out of the SSW. It starts working at around 1.2m and handles up to about 3m, with the sweet spot around 2 to 2.6m. Period matters too: aim for 14s or longer, as anything under 10s tends to be weak. These are the numbers our scoring uses, so treat them as a guide rather than a promise.
What wind is offshore at Leblon Pontão?
A NE wind is dead offshore at Leblon Pontão, and anything from the N round to the E keeps it clean. The morning is typically the best window, roughly 5am to 10am. Light winds from other directions can still be fine; strong offshores can make it hard to get into waves.
What tide is best at Leblon Pontão?
Leblon Pontão is at its best around the mid to high tide.
When is the best time of year to surf Leblon Pontão?
The most reliable run of swell at Leblon Pontão comes Apr to Sep. Needs big SW swells.
How cold is the water at Leblon Pontão?
The water at Leblon Pontão averages around 23°C, so you'll want a springsuit or 2mm. It shifts a few degrees through the year, so check the season before you pack.
Is Leblon Pontão good for beginners?
Not really. It's rated 7/10 for difficulty and suits experienced surfers. Expect a moderate crowd (6/10) when it's on. Rocky takeoff.
How do I get to Leblon Pontão?
The nearest airport on our list is GIG, then it's roughly a 25-minute drive.
What other surf spots are near Leblon Pontão?
The closest breaks we track are Arpoador (3.2 km), São Conrado (4.3 km) and Copacabana Posto 5 (4.9 km), handy when Leblon Pontão isn't working. We track 7 spots around Rio de Janeiro, RJ in total.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Needs big SW swells
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Arpoador
🌅 Brazil's iconic wave • Night surfing • Legendary sunsets
São Conrado
🪂 Rob Machado's Rio favorite • Fast hollow A-frames • Hang glider landing zone
Copacabana Posto 5
🌴 Iconic Copa • Heavy shorebreak • Urban surf
Barra da Tijuca
🏢 18km of peaks • Former CT venue • Modern Rio
Camboinhas
🛡️ Protected bay • Beginner option • Itacoatiara alternative
Piratininga
🌊 All levels option • Niterói reliability • Less crowded