Overview
Castelhanos sits on the beautiful coast of Ilhabela, a sand-bottomed beach break that peels both left and right. On its day it throws up hollow, long-walled tube sections between the close-outs, surf that can turn epic when everything lines up.
When It Works
Castelhanos draws swell from northeast through east-southeast to south (NE-ESE-S), with east (E) swell the best match and the direction that brings out its best shape. It's a consistent break that works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, giving a wide window of usable size.
Wind and Tide
Look for west (W) offshore wind to clean up the faces. The bank works through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Expect a moderately busy lineup that fills in more on weekends. It's also an approachable option for beginners.
Access
Getting here is part of the trip: take the ferry across to Ilhabela, and when the weather is dry a dirt road opens up access to the beach. You can camp right in front of the break, and there is free roadside parking, though it can be restricted.
