Surfing

Surfing remains hugely popular in Rio, and stand-up paddleboarding is a current trend—kiosks offer stand-up paddleboards and classes all along the Zona Sul beaches. Kite surfing is growing rapidly, too, with several schools opening on Barra beachfront and out of town toward Cabo Frio.

Kitepoint Rio. One of several companies based in beach kiosks along Avenida do Pepê near Posto 7, Kitepoint provides all the equipment and training you'll need to master the sport of kite surfing. Wind conditions have to be just right, though, so patience is a virtue when seeking lessons. Av. do Pepê, Kiosk 7, next to Bombeiro, Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 22622–170. 21/8859–2112; 21/9200–0418; www.kitepointrio.com.br. From R$110.

Surf's Up Rio. Run by globe-trotting, multilingual surfer Gabriela Pulcherio, this agency offers individual and group surf lessons, as well as stand-up paddle boarding experiences, both on Zona Sul's beaches and as part of day trips out to the natural reserve of Guaratiba. 21/99214--0797; surfsuprio.com. R$90.