São Conrado
São Conrado is one of Rio's best-kept secrets, a beach break beneath the dramatic Pedra da Gávea that Rob Machado once called his favorite wave in the city. The "Pepê" section produces fast, hollow A-frames that barrel over the sandy bottom, rewarding quick reflexes and committed tube riding. The beach is also the landing zone for hang gliders jumping off the mountain above, adding to the surreal Rio experience.
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Location & Conditions
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Spot Details
Swell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (112°)
- Direction range
- 90° - 157°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.0m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 315° - 67°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
Water temp
23°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
7/10
👥 Winter Break (Jul 1 – Jul 31) — expect extra crowds
Access: Easy beach access
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Best in autumn/winter
Getting There
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