Paracuru
Fortaleza - Brazil
Spot Type
Wave
Water
Crystal Clear
Beach
Sand
Rider Lever
beginner
Spot characteristics
Spot Type
Wave
Rider Skill
beginner
Crowd
Seasonal Crowd
Beach Type
Sand
Water Quality
Crystal Clear
Tide Influence
Tide independent
Description of Paracuru (Brazil)
Paracuru, a charming coastal town in northeastern Brazil, is renowned for being one of the windiest places in the world, making it an ideal destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts. Located about 90 km from Fortaleza, Paracuru offers a variety of kitesurfing spots that cater to different skill levels, from beginners to seasoned experts. The area is blessed with consistent trade winds that blow steadily from June to January, peaking between September and November when the winds are the strongest. This makes it a great spot to go kiting, as the conditions are nearly always favorable.
The main kitesurfing spot in Paracuru is Quebra Mar, located to the east of the town. This spot is unique due to its natural sandy beach and sandbanks, which create a beautiful lagoon at low tide with mirror-like flat water, perfect for freestylers and those who enjoy flat water conditions. The lagoon stretches about 220 meters, offering ample space for kitesurfers to practice and perfect their skills. As the tide rises, the spot transforms into a wave haven, with reef breaks producing waves that can reach up to 2.5 meters in height, offering excellent conditions for wave riding. This versatility makes Quebra Mar a favorite among kitesurfers who appreciate both flat water and wave conditions.
Another notable spot is Rio Curu, situated to the west of Paracuru. This area becomes an expansive flat water playground at high tide, particularly favored by those looking for less crowded conditions. The estuary of Rio Curu provides calm waters, although the wind can be a bit gusty due to the surrounding trees. The natural and wild landscape of this spot adds to its charm, though it lacks infrastructure, so kitesurfers need to be self-sufficient.
For those seeking a quieter alternative, Catavento is a flat water spot located 3 km upwind from Quebra Mar. Best enjoyed at low tide, Catavento offers smooth water without the breaking waves found at other spots, making it a great choice when Quebra Mar becomes crowded.
The beach in Paracuru is long and wide, offering plenty of space for launching and landing kites. The fine sandy beach is free from obstacles, making it safe and convenient for kitesurfers of all levels. The natural beauty of the surroundings, combined with the reliable wind, makes Paracuru a top destination for kitesurfing.
Spot best suited for
Spot profile
Travel spot
The typical kite travel destination, it is known for its great conditions, and kiters from around the world come here for their vacations.
Adventure spot
That dream place out of the normal touristic routes. Once you reach it, you feel in paradise, it can be anything extraordinary, a hidden gem, remote and fascinating.
Family spot
Located in an area that offers amenities for all the family and can provide good alternatives for everyone when the kiters are in the water.
Equipment
Given the warm water temperatures, wetsuits are generally not necessary, but a shorty or rash guard can be useful for sun protection.
Wind Conditions
Main wind directions
% of Windy days per month
Wind Speed Range
From 12 to 25 Knots
Suggested sizes
7 mt and below
8 - 9 mt
10 - 11 mt
12 - 13 mt
Forecast on Windy.com
Dangers
The primary danger at Quebra Mar is the reef that becomes exposed at low tide. Kitesurfers need to be cautious of the shallow areas to avoid injury. Additionally, at high tide, there are some fishermen’s stakes about 440 meters downwind from the main spot, which can pose a hazard. The Rio Curu spot is relatively free of dangers, although there are some rocks inland and at the river mouth.
Location
Closest City
Fortaleza
How to get There
Paracuru is easily accessible by car or bus from Fortaleza, which has an international airport, Pinto Martins International Airport. The drive from Fortaleza to Paracuru takes about 90 minutes via the CE-085 highway, a mostly paved road with some challenges due to potholes and sand drifts. There are no direct accommodations at the kitesurfing spots, so visitors typically stay in Paracuru and make the short 5 to 15-minute drive to the beaches.
Access
Public
What to do besides kitesurfing
Paracuru offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. The town has several pousadas and hotels catering to different budgets, though luxury accommodations are limited. Restaurants in Paracuru serve a mix of local Brazilian cuisine, with fresh seafood being a highlight, as well as international options like Italian and French. The town is known for its lively nightlife, with bars featuring live music and a vibrant atmosphere, particularly around the central village square.
For non-kitesurfing activities, visitors can enjoy sandboarding in the nearby dunes, horseback riding, or exploring the surrounding areas by VTT (all-terrain vehicle). Fishing trips and canoeing on nearby rivers are also popular. The town is safe, with low crime rates, making it a relaxed and enjoyable destination for both kitesurfers and tourists alike.