Overview
Praia Pestana, also known as Fishermen's Bay, is a Waikiki-style reform on Ilhéu das Rolas, a small islet straddling the equator off the southern tip of São Tomé. The islet is strikingly beautiful and home to Pestana Equador, an upscale resort that mostly draws divers and big-game fishermen. The wave itself is gentle and rolling, the kind of mellow setup made for cruising on a longboard.
When It Works
The break draws swell from south through southwest, with a southwest (SW) swell the best match. It peels both left and right over a mix of rock ledge and sand, and works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.2 m / 4 ft. Consistency can be hit or miss, so it pays to catch it when the swell lines up.
Wind and Tide
Look for a south (S) offshore wind to smooth the face. The wave can work through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is a friendly, forgiving wave that suits beginners well. Expect a fairly quiet lineup, and you may even find local kids riding wooden boards out here.
Access
Reaching Ilhéu das Rolas means catching the Cariouco boat from São João dos Angolares or Porto Alegre. Beyond the Pestana Equador resort, cheaper accommodation is available at a Roça.
