Pedra Virada (Maceió)

Pedra Virada is an exposed reef break in the Maceió area with both left and right breaking waves. Multiple sources emphasize that it “does not work very often” and that performance is strongly dependent on tide and correct swell/wind timing. While it can offer a real reef-wave experience when conditions line up, riders should plan around the reef being properly defined, especially at low tide. Safety is a primary concern: the spot is characterized by reef bottom and submerged rocks, and the inside/paddling area is described as hazardous. Reports also note that the break can become messy or even close out on very large swells, so choosing the right swell size and keeping a cautious approach on takeoffs is important. From a wind perspective, the spot is associated with winter/favored seasonal conditions and a trade-wind environment. “Blown” vs “clean” wind statistics are reported (51% blown, 17% clean), so while sessions can be good when the forecast aligns, riders should not assume consistently clean conditions. Offshore/grooming effects are associated with winds from the west-northwest sector, while light onshore winds are also mentioned as something the break can work with. Seasonally, winter is repeatedly identified as the favored time for surfing, with April also singled out as a good month for swell. Crowding is reported as very low to rarely crowded, making it a potential option when you want a more uncrowded reef session—while still accepting that conditions can be challenging and infrequent.