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Aerial satellite view of Campeche surf break in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Campeche

-27.689, -48.478
Edited by Thomas Jackson
Verified May 2026
Editor-verifiedCross-checked against 1 reference
Right · BeachBeginner → Advanced4–12 ftMar – Sep

A fickle but memorable right-hander on Santa Catarina's southern coast, Campeche is the kind of wave that has local gaucho surfers dropping everything when it fires. What looks like a point break on the map is actually a bend in the coastline that catches big S swells and funnels them along the sandbanks in front of Campeche Island. When the elements align, a chest-high lump on the takeoff can unwind into a rippable wall running for several hundred yards, comparable at its best to First Point Malibu. It needs a big S swell, W to NW winds, and a low to mid tide to switch on, and even then it can still disappoint. Bottom: sand. Season: year-round, best fall and winter. Consistency: fickle. Note that between May and June, traditional Tainha fishing can restrict access to the water entirely, so check local regulations before the trip.

Wave fit

Skill suited
Beginner → Advanced
BegIntAdv
Best months
Mar – Sep
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Character
Long walling right sand bend, fickle and size-dependent.

Conditions

When it works
Hazards
Localism and crowds when it's onEspecially at the main spotIn front of the Campeche Island. AlsoBetween May and June surfing may be prohibited for traditional "Tainha" fishing.
Trip planning

Quick facts

Water temp
18° to 26°C
Wetsuit
Boardies to 2mm
What to bring
  • Shortboard 6ft to 6ft 4in for overhead days
  • Fish or mid-length for waist to chest-high walls
  • Step-up 6ft 8in or larger for double overhead swells
Lineup
Heavy locals, respect required
Where it sits

Location

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About this break

What it's actually like

Crowd & Localism

When Campeche is on, everyone knows it and everyone shows up. Expect a heavy lineup and real local presence at the main peak in front of the island. Localism is manageable but real. Wait your turn, read the rotation, and don't snake. Dawn patrol significantly reduces the pressure before word spreads.

Access & Facilities

Access is easy with parking close to the beach. The paddle-out is straightforward in normal conditions, though bigger swell can mean long paddles back to the peak. Water quality is generally clean. Food and amenities are available nearby in the Campeche neighborhood of Florianópolis.

Nearby Alternatives

When Campeche is flat or locked out during fishing season, Joaquina to the north is a reliable beach break option that handles SE swells well and has more consistent peaks. Praia Mole also picks up swell in similar conditions and offers a more forgiving crowd dynamic.

10-day swell, wind and tide

Campeche surf forecast

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Forecast by Windy.app

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Frequently asked

Before you paddle out

Campeche is a beach break suited for beginner to advanced surfers. Confident beginners can give it a go on small days.
Campeche
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