Piçarras Pier (Penha)

Piçarras Pier (Molhe de Picarras / Molhe de Piçarras) is a specialized, sheltered surfing spot at the mouth of the Piçarras River where waves run along the rock jetty. It is a right-hand point-break that is known for rarity: it typically activates only when a specific large North or East swell wraps into the bay, and it may break only around five days per year. When it does break, the wave is described as fast and powerful, with peeling shape and generally good quality. It usually starts working around 1.5–2m swell and can hold into larger conditions above about 2.5m+. Rides are often short (<50m) by default, but on well-formed days can extend to roughly 50–150m. Wind conditions matter because the jetty setup benefits from offshore winds. Reported optimal winds are West through SouthWest and South, which help groom the face; wind reliability is described as low. Conditions can also change after heavy rain, and pollution risk is noted following strong rainfall. Safety is a key concern. Dangerous rips are reported, and strong currents can occur near the river mouth and jetty (especially around outgoing tides or larger swells). The lineup may be crowded and can include moderate localism when the spot is active—so riders should be cautious, follow etiquette, and avoid going in right after heavy rainfall.