Overview
Boca da Barra is the highlight of surfing in Itacaré, a super-long, fun right-hander that peels across a sandbank at the mouth of the River Contas. It's a river-mouth wave over sand, running along long walls with a few hollower sections mixed in. There are lefts off the peak too, but they're fat and slow as they fold into the river flow, which acts as a conveyor belt carrying you out to the distant lineup.
When It Works
The wave draws swell from east through south, with east the optimal direction. It's usable from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, and it's moderately consistent, so worthwhile windows come around when the setup lines up. When a good swell meets a low, incoming tide, rides of over 600 metres are on offer, streaking across those long walls and through the hollower sections.
Wind and Tide
Look for a southwest offshore wind. It works on low and mid tide, and a rising tide is the better call. Be careful on dropping tides, which can throw up horrendous rips.
Local Tips
This is a wave for experts and strong paddlers only. Crowding isn't really a problem, but the payoff comes with a serious commitment: you'll be a long way from the beach, sharks are around, and it's best not to surf alone.
Access
There's free roadside parking.
