Santos is a popular surf spot located close to the city center and right by Brazil's main harbor. It's known for its accessible beaches, making it a convenient place for surfers of all levels to catch some waves. The surf scene here can be quite lively, with a mix of local and visiting surfers enjoying the breaks.

The best spots to surf in Santos generally require a south or southeast swell. Praia do Itaraé tends to get the biggest waves, while Embaré works well with easterly winds. The area beside the jetty at Quebra Mar often features the longest right-hand breaks leading into Canal 1. You can also find some shorter, punchy left walls there. The waves can be small and mushy, making it suitable for beginners, but it can also get overhead and barreling when the big swells roll in. This location can handle swell sizes starting at around 2 feet (0.6 meters) and works well with beach breaks on both left and right directions. The preferred wind direction is from the north, and it can handle low, mid, and high tide conditions.

While surfing in Santos, one should be aware of the local crowds, especially on good days. The vibe can be a bit intense, as many local surfers are keen to catch the best waves. Even though it's beginner-friendly, you’ll want to be mindful of etiquette and the conditions since the currents can be strong, particularly near the western side of Ilha Porchat at Porta do Sol, where a reef peak catches the east-southeast swells. Overall, Santos offers a good mix for surfers looking to enjoy a less-than-perfect, yet still fun, surf day.