Joaquina Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S to E
Wind
Calm or offshore from the NW.
Surf Height
Chest high-2X overhead, but can hold even larger.
Tide
Longer rides at the left corner with low to medium tide, but breaks on all tides.
Joaquina Surf Guide
Joaquina Beach is the center of surfing in the region. The town council was persuaded enough to install stadium lighting -- as in Rio at Arpoador -- so that night surfing is possible when the surf is in the fun range. The wave itself is a sand-bottom, lefthand semi-point of shifting sandbars off a rocky headland. On its best days, it can hold big swell -- up to double-overhead -- and can get heavy. A variety of spots from the north end of the beach can handle any swell direction and any tide, up to 10-feet or more, and on its best days it can be spectacularly long and hollow. Picks up lots of swell, and there's usually always something to ride.
Ability Level
All Abilities
All levels -- Depends on size of course, and which spot exactly. The left corner (Costão) is more suitable for more experienced surfers.
Local Vibe
Doable
Serious to aggro.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Heavy. Serious and competitive.
Spot Rating
Fun
Very consistent, holds big waves, and in its best conditions is a regional classic.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Despite the channel in the left corner of the beach, on large days it is difficult to enter.
Water Quality
Clean
Fairly clean for the most part.
Hazards
Other surfers and localism on better days. Currents on bigger days.
Bring Your
Shortboard
Access
Easy.
Bottom
Sand.
Best Season
Fall and winter are best, but breaks year-round.
Do you have local knowledge about Joaquina?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]