Rio de Janeiro

Rio's nickname "Cidade Maravilhosa" (The Marvelous City) is no hyperbole. One of the most aesthetically stunning metropolises on the planet, framed by sheer jungle-peaks and immaculate bays, the state of RDJ is teeming with fun, quite consistent surf. Facing mostly south, the vast surf zone may actually cop THE most swell in the country...which may explain why the WSL holds an event there every year. Whether it's crusier beach towns south of the city like Praia da Macumba offering inviting, sand-bottomed peaks, to thumping barrels in the thick of urban enclaves like Ipanema or Copacabana...save a little post-surf energy for Rio's renowned nightlife. At the very least, a pickup soccer game on the beach, or the best açai bowl you've ever tasted over an impromptu bossa nova show that pops up on the boardwalk. All is possible in Rio.

Notable waves

Arpoador, Barra da Tijuca, Grumari, Ipanema, Itacoatiara, Leblon, Praia da Macumba, Praínha, São Conrado, Joaquina, Recreio dos Bandeirantes, Saquarema

Don't miss

• The nightlife—at any pace that you prefer—in Rio
• Visiting Cristo Redentor, one of the modern World Wonders
• Cruising at a boardwalk kiosk after a surf
• Hang gliding/paragliding over the city
• Island hopping by boat outside of Barra da Tijuca
• The artsy neighborhood of Santa Teresa
• Rock climbing Pedra da Gavea with a guide
• Truly Brazilian beach sports like: Futevôlei (Foot-Volleyball) and Frescobol
• A "bloco" party during Carnaval in Rio