Tramandaí is the closest beach to Porto Alegre, making it a popular spot for local surfers and visitors alike. The area can get pretty crowded, especially around the pier, but the vibe is generally friendly. If you're looking to catch some waves without traveling too far, this is definitely a spot worth checking out.

The surf here is quite variable. The optimal swell direction is from the east, but you can also catch decent waves with swells coming in from the south. It typically handles swell sizes around 2ft (about 0.6 meters) nicely. Waves break over sand, which is great for beginners looking to improve their skills. You can find both lefts and rights, giving surfers some options depending on the setup on any given day. For the best experience, you'll want to hit the water when the tide is low, mid, or high, and the preferred wind direction is from the northwest.

While Tramandaí can get busy, there’s enough space for everyone to find their spot. Just keep in mind that there are a lot of local surfers around, so expect some hustle on the best peaks. If the main beach isn’t working for you, you might want to check out the fickle peelers at the Barra de Imbe rivermouth for another option.