Rio Grande do Sul
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- a
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- j
- j
- a
- s
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- n
- d
Positives
- Big wave option in Torres
- Not polluted
- Beach & party vibe
- Friendly gaúcho hospitality
Negatives
- Average quality beachbreaks
- Not too consistent
- Almost no wind protection
- Regular strong rips
Rio Grande do Sul surf travel guide
The “Great River of the South” is the southernmost State of Brazil, bordered to the north by Santa Catarina, to the west by Argentina, to the south by Uruguay and to the east by the Atlantic Ocean. Gaúcho cattle herders and ranchers have settled the Pampas regions and the state is highly regarded for its hospitality and excellent quality of life. The coast is one straight sandy beach stretching 500km, broken only by 3 rivermouths, where the construction of jetties is the only other help for creating sandbanks, yet there are a few good surprises and consistent winter swells, including some of the biggest waves in the country.
Surf spots in Rio Grande do Sul
Research the 13 surf breaks in Rio Grande do Sul and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 13 breaks in Rio Grande do Sul.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Rio Grande do Sul
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- dec
Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 6,621,000
- Population
- 212,559,417
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- BRL
- Exchange rate
- $1 = 1.9 BRL BRL
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +55
- Dialing out
- 0014
- Emergencies
- 911
- Language
- Portuguese
Electricity
- Plug Type
- n
Visas
Visa free travel for nearly all nationalities for stays of up to 90 days.
Getting There
Visa necessary for most visitors, check with embassy before travelling. International flights to Rio (GIG) or São Paulo (GRU/CGH). Portuguese airline TAP is often the best buy. Connecting flight to Porto Alegre International Airport (POA), from $250r/t, with Voegol, Oceanair, Varig or Webjet and make sure they take boardbags. $38 dep tax.
Getting Around
A rental car is useful but not necessary (from $320/wk, www.easyterra.com). Torres is located 200km (124mi) from Porto Alegre and 1000km (621mi) from Sao Paulo. Regional transport hub in Pelotas, with regular buses to Porto Alegre and Rio Grande every 30min. Highway BR-101 runs along Brazil’s coast and connects 12 capitals.
Accommodation
Large choice of accommodation from pousadas to luxury hotels. In Torres, try Hotel Samambaia, A Furninha ($50/n) or Guarita Park Hotel ($65/n). The barbecue, locally known as churrasco is one of the most important elements of everyday life.
Activities
Ecotourism is well-developed. Lots of historical tours to Jesuit Missions. Torres is home of the Guarita Park biosphere reserve and a hot air balloon festival.
Hazards & hassles
Never leave valuables (phones, cameras, watches, rings) unattended or in cars. Brazilian thieves are experts and know every trick! Local water is usually not safe to drink; go for mineral water, beer or guarana. When driving, go with the flow. Localism is not a problem if you respect the rules. Watch out for the dangerous fishing nets.
Handy Hints
Plenty of surf shops where quality equipment is pretty cheap. Bring any board that works in small to medium beachbreaks. Wake up early for offshore conditions. Try sandboarding in Itapeva or Cidreira.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.