Praia de Ipanema is one of the famous beaches in Rio de Janeiro, known for its vibrant atmosphere and popularity among locals and tourists alike. This spot can be hit or miss when it comes to surfing, depending on the conditions. While it’s a city beach and can sometimes be flat, there are days when the surf can surprise you with solid waves. The beach itself has a lively vibe, making it a great place to hang out when you’re not surfing.

The waves at Ipanema can range from playful chest-high (about 1.2 meters) to slightly overhead (around 2 meters) on the right days. It generally handles swell sizes from about 2 feet (0.6 meters) to 6 feet (1.8 meters), with the best conditions coming from the southeast to southwest. The sand bottom is fairly forgiving, but the waves can be shifty with peaks that vary from right to left. Medium to high tides work best here, and calm to offshore winds from the northwest to northeast are ideal to get the most out of your session. Just keep in mind that while some days may offer great rides, it can also lead to closeouts next to the beach, so knowing when to pick your peak is key.

Access to Ipanema is easy, making it a popular spot, especially on weekends when crowds can be large on the beach. However, the surf lineup can be less congested. This area is best surfed during the fall and winter months when more consistent swells come through, and the sandy bottoms are at their best. Just be cautious of rip currents, as they can be a hazard at this beach. Overall, it's a spot that requires some experience to navigate the varying conditions but can be rewarding when it’s firing.