Costão da Pinheira

Costão da Pinheira is a right-hand point break on Santa Catarina’s coast, known for producing hollow, fast, powerful waves when the right combination of swell and wind arrives. It is a low-frequency spot—reported as rarely breaking (around 5 days per year)—so it only becomes a priority when a solid east (and northeast) swell lines up with offshore winds from the west/southwest/south/southeast. When conditions match, the wave can start working at less than 1 meter and hold up to around 2 meters or more. The typical ride length is reported in the 50–150 m range, with longer rides on good days extending up to roughly 150–300 m. On the best setups the wave delivers a fast, hollow shape with powerful sections, and the break is generally described as a regional classic. The spot’s terrain includes rocks along the point and submerged boulders, and currents can become strong near the point during larger swells. Takeoff is also described as difficult, and local surfers are known to be present on classic days despite the spot’s infrequency. Crowds can surge when it breaks—reports describe ultra-crowded conditions on both weekdays and weekends whenever the point is working. Wind-wise, the key is offshore grooming from the west quadrant (west, southwesterly, southerly, and southeasterly winds). The recommended conditions emphasize east/northeast swells with those offshore winds. Safety planning should account for rocks, possible pollution, and limited rescue availability; lifeguards are reported as seasonal, and the spot is not characterized as having a dedicated rescue setup.