The WSL Rio Pro is one of the stages of the Championship Tour (CT) and takes place annually in the city of Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro. The event brings together the best surfers from around the world to compete on the incredible waves of Saquarema’s Itaúna Beach.
As your Brazilian friend, I’ve put together this guide with all the essential information you need to make the most of the Rio Pro 2025, one of the most eagerly awaited events on the WSL calendar.
Table of Contents
About WSL Rio Pro
Saquarema, often called the national surfing capital of Brazil, is located in the Lakes Region of Rio de Janeiro.
Known for its waves up to 3 meters high, Saquarema provides the perfect setting for the Championship Tour (CT). Since 2017, the WSL Rio Pro has been held annually in this surfing paradise.
The WSL Rio Pro 2025 in Saquarema is more than just a surfing competition; it’s a celebration of sport, community, and vibrant Brazilian culture. Whether you’re a die-hard surf fan or simply looking for an exciting event to attend, this festival promises an unforgettable experience.
WSL Rio Pro 2025 Schedule and Highlights
The 2025 CT includes twelve regular-season events across nine countries, with the Brazilian leg set to take place in Saquarema. Here are some of the highlights:
- Date: June 21 – 29, 2025
- Location: Itaúna Beach, Saquarema
- Activities: World-class surfing competitions, fan meet-and-greets, live music, and more.
The 2025 edition will feature an opening concert with an attraction yet to be confirmed.
How to get to Saquarema
The small town of Saquarema is easily accessible from Rio de Janeiro, making it a convenient destination for both local and international visitors. The town is also close to other tourist towns in the region, such as Cabo Frio and Búzios.
Here are some travel options:
By Car
Saquarema is approximately 120 km from Rio de Janeiro. The journey takes about 2 hours and the most recommended route is via the BR-101 highway.
By Bus
Several bus companies operate routes from Rio de Janeiro to Saquarema.
The main bus station in Rio de Janeiro is called Terminal Rodoviário Novo Rio and is located in the city center. The journey from the bus station takes around 2.5 hours.
You can buy bus tickets through the following websites:
By Shuttle
On event days, special shuttle services may be available from various points in the city of Rio de Janeiro, providing direct transportation to Itaúna Beach.
Where to stay in Saquarema
Saquarema offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or a beach house, you’ll find something that meets your needs.
Popular Areas to Stay During the WSL Rio Pro 2025:
- Itaúna Beach: Ideal for those who want to be close to the action. Accommodation in this area tends to sell out quickly, so book early.
- Centro: The city center provides a wider variety of restaurants and shopping options, perfect for those who enjoy convenience.
- Boqueirão and Gravatá: These quieter areas are a bit further from the event, so having a car is necessary if you choose to stay here.
Cost and Ticket Information
The WSL Rio Pro 2025 is a free event, allowing fans to enjoy the excitement without any ticket costs. Therefore, the costs to be taken into account for your stay on the days of the event are:
- Accommodation: Prices vary according to the type and location of accommodation.
- Food and drink: There are many options available, from street food to restaurants.
- Transportation: Prices vary according to the type of transportation you choose.
Things to do in Saquarema
When the waves are calm and there’s no competition at the WSL Rio Pro 2025, Saquarema offers other activities to keep you entertained.
In this list, I’ve put together some things to do in Saquarema that will help you make the most of your free time during the event:
Explore other beaches: an excellent option is to go to Prainha, a beautiful beach known for its tranquillity and panoramic views.
Visit the Church of Our Lady of Nazareth: Climb up to this historic church and enjoy the breathtaking view of the city and the coastline.
Admire the panoramic view from Morro da Cruz: Head to the Morro da Cruz viewpoint for a breathtaking panoramic view of Saquarema.
Watch the sunset: Relax and watch the sunset at Casa da Praia or Casa do Surf in Itaúna, popular places to unwind after a day of activities.
Tips for Attending
Arrive early: To ensure the best viewing points on the beach.
Stay hydrated: Bring water, especially if you plan to spend the whole day at the event.
Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, hats and sunglasses.
Local currency: Have some cash on hand for food, drinks, and local purchases.
Respect local customs: Be aware of the environment and the local community.
If you’re passionate about surfing, it’s also worth checking out this post about the best surfing spots in Brazil to discover other incredible destinations for catching waves.
