Surf: General: The next main beach heading west from Leblon is a mile away along the twisting road that leads past the Pontao de Leblon. The mile-long beach between the mountains is called São Conrado.

The best surf spot is at the farthest east end of the beach, where the sand meets the huge rock headland. Swells, particularly from the southwest, roll up the huge rocks and backwash, creating tricky, wedging peaks at the end of the beach. It's shallow and hollow and funky, and it can be good.

Locals like to call it "Pepinoline," and it's known as one of Rio's shallowest waves. When it gets too big it will close out, so it's generally best around head high, and when the Ipanema area is flat it can be worth a look, as the rebounding peaks may offer something fun.

Note: In the hills behind the beach is the biggest favela in Rio, but the beach scene is fine. Best not to leave anything in your car or on the beach here and try to park where there's a parking attendant. Tides: Medium tides Size: Chest high to slightly overhead Wind: Calm or offshore from the NW to NE. Swell: SE, S. Also SSW at the west corner of the beach. Bottom: Sand. Paddling: Breaks close to the beach and the rides are short. Spot Rating: Very consistent and lots of power. But can not handle large swells. Access: Easy. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Crowded but not aggro, usually. Local Vibe: Cool. Environment: Permanent sewage outlet. Presence of all types of garbage after heavy rains from urban drainage. Hazards: Heavy break over shallow sandbanks. Season: Fall and winter are best, but breaks year-round.