São José is a smaller beach tucked away and not as crowded as some other places. It takes about a 40-minute walk through the rainforest from Ribeira Beach to get there, and parking is pretty limited. The vibe is relaxed, which is nice if you’re looking to escape the busier spots.

The surf here can be pretty fun but might not be great for complete beginners. The waves work best with a north-east swell and can handle sizes from about 0.3 meters (1 ft) up to around 2 meters (6 ft). You can catch both left and right waves, with the right breaking off the rocks at the south end. When the tide is low to mid, and even high, you can expect some decent rideable waves. Just a heads up, it can feel a bit pushy and rippy depending on the swell, so keep that in mind.

For wind, a west direction is ideal, making for some good sessions. Remember, even if it’s a smaller beach, having the right conditions is key for a good surf day. Enjoy!