there are a number of tournaments that take place throughout the year with surfing usually attracting the largest crowds. the period from april to october is known for producing the best waves, but it is possible to watch the sport all year round from a number of beaches including leblon and ipanema.

the asp world tour was  hosted in rio de janeiro in 2011, having spent the last eight years in santa catarina in the south of brazil. some of the best surfers in the world travel to rio to take advantage of the favourable conditions and to show off their ability, which is a truely impressive sight.