Guaratuba (Bertioga)

Guaratuba (Bertioga) is a sandy beach-break surfing spot with regular, approachable surf and good wave quality. It’s exposed to the open beach, so it can respond strongly to swell and current changes, but it also gives both lefts and rights for experienced sessions. Reports consistently note the spot starts working at well under 1 meter and can hold up into the 3 meter+ range. Conditions are most often described as best when a south swell combines with a northwest wind. Northwest flow is typically the key wind direction because it tends to groom the waves offshore, improving peel and overall wave shape. Many sessions find better form near the Guaratuba river mouth (north end), where sandbar effects can appear, and tides are described as working across all tide phases (with rising tides often preferred for consistency). Safety is a priority here: dangerous rip currents and river-mouth currents are repeatedly flagged, particularly around the river mouth. Even though the beach is often quiet, surfers should plan for these hazards, keep an eye on water movement, and negotiate the channel/nearshore carefully. There can also be sun exposure and occasional driftwood near the river, which adds to the need for situational awareness. Crowd levels are generally low. Weekdays are often empty, and weekends tend to have only a few surfers. Infrastructure is limited, with notes pointing to few on-beach vendors and minimal amenities compared with larger tourist zones, so plan gear and necessities accordingly—especially if you’re dependent on parking availability or additional services.