Overview
Itauna is the beachbreak in Saquarema often called the Maracanã of surf, hosting major contests in some of the most consistent and competitive waves in the country. It breaks over sand and produces both lefts and rights, and it rates as consistent, so there's usually something to ride. The break sits at the mouth of the lagoon, overlooked by the Nazaré Church built in 1630, and that lagoon mouth brings pollution to the water. Expect the water in Saquarema to run colder than you might guess.
When It Works
Itauna draws swell from east through south to southwest (E-S-SW), with south (S) the best match. The outside lefts come alive on east-southeast swells, where clean 10-12ft (3-4m) faces are not a rare sight. Powerful, tubular rights grind through on a south to southwest swell, though they won't hold as much size as the lefts. The spot is usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 4.6 m / 15 ft, covering everything from small, mellow days to serious overhead conditions.
Wind and Tide
Look for northwest (NW) offshore wind to clean things up. It works across low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
When it's small, Itauna is accessible to most abilities, but once overhead conditions arrive it turns into an expert wave that rewards skilled, dialled-in surfers. It's a very busy lineup, so expect plenty of company when it's on.
Access
There's a car park with both free and paid options, plus roadside parking. On-site you'll find restrooms, showers, camping, a lifeguard, a surf school, and a surf shop.
