Guarda do Embaú, Surf beach in Paulo Lopes, Brazil.
Guarda do Embaú is a beach where the Rio da Madre river meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating distinctive water conditions ideal for surfing. The coastline is shaped by this river mouth, which forms a natural boundary and influences how the water flows.
The settlement was long a small fishing village until it gradually drew water sports enthusiasts beginning in the 1970s. The shift toward becoming a surfing destination happened over time while fishing remained important to the community.
Fishermen continue to work these waters using time-honored methods that shape the rhythm of the place, especially during the mullet and mackerel seasons from April through July.
To reach the beach, you need to cross the Rio da Madre by foot during low tide, by boat with local operators, or by swimming. Check tide times and weather before your visit to choose the best and safest route.
The area received World Surfing Reserve status in 2016, becoming the ninth designated surfing sanctuary globally. This recognition acknowledged its importance for surf culture and coastal ecosystem protection.
Location: Paulo Lopes
GPS coordinates: -27.90860,-48.59290
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02
The South Region of Brazil brings together nature reserves, waterfalls, beaches, and mountain peaks. Here you find geological formations such as canyons and caves, plus islands with archaeological sites. The landscape ranges from the Atlantic coast to inland highlands, where subtropical rainforest grows and rivers run through gorges. The region offers surf areas like Guarda do Embaú and Praia do Rosa, hiking trails through Cânion Itaimbezinho and Cânion Fortaleza, and mountain destinations such as Pico Paraná and Morro da Igreja. Nature parks like Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra and Reserva Natural Salto Morato protect native species and ecosystems. Visitors can explore sandstone formations at Parque Estadual de Vila Velha, walk through caves like Gruta de Botuverá, or visit islands such as Ilha do Campeche. Serra do Rio do Rastro winds through curves into the mountains, while waterfalls like Cachoeira do Avencal and Cascata Encantada drop through forests.
Brazil's coastline stretches over 4,600 miles (7,400 kilometers), connecting tropical forests, sandbars, and several climate zones. In Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana and Ipanema draw visitors with their urban energy, while Fernando de Noronha offers bays shaped by marine life and volcanic rock. Further north, palm trees and dunes define the scenery in Ceará, where Jericoacoara is known for kitesurfing. Bahia holds Praia do Espelho and Taipus de Fora, where coral reefs and tidal pools give snorkelers refuge. Santa Catarina and São Paulo combine wave breaks with rainforest trails leading to remote beaches like Praia dos Castelhanos. Pernambuco and Alagoas feature warm, calm waters and natural pools that form at low tide, including Porto de Galinhas and Maragogi. In the north, Alter do Chão on the Tapajós River creates a freshwater beach surrounded by Amazon vegetation. Each region shows different tides, currents, and ecosystems, from sheltered lagoons to open Atlantic shores.
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