Riomar Reef is a surf spot located a bit off the beaten path, mainly surfed by a few locals in the know. It’s somewhat remote, requiring a bit of effort to access, and you won’t find much in terms of parking unless you’re a local resident. The spot offers a mixed bag when it comes to waves, with the inside breaks being less impressive compared to other shorepounds in Vero. However, when the conditions align, it can provide a unique experience for those willing to put in the time.
The optimal conditions here include a strong North swell, particularly between 2ft (0.6m) to 10ft (3m), with low tide often being the best time to go. When the outer reef is firing, typically over rock/reef, both left and right waves can produce some decent rides. The best wind directions are from the west, and although it can handle swell from the NorthEast as well, it really thrives when the stronger swells come in, especially during hurricane season. For the more experienced surfers, this spot can be an enjoyable challenge, but it's not suitable for beginners. When it’s small, the better option might be nearby spots.
Even though there aren’t many crowds, you should still approach with caution as this area is known to have bull sharks. The vibe is generally pretty chill among the locals, making it a laid-back place to catch some waves—provided you know what you're doing. Just keep an eye on the conditions, and if anything feels off, it might be best to take a break. The surf season here runs mostly through the fall, winter, and spring, so if you're looking to ride at Riomar Reef, that's the best time to head out.