THE LURE Prea is located on a 15-mile stretch of coast in the northeast Ceara state area of Brazil, three-and-a-half hours drive from Fortaleza and just 15 minutes from Jericoacoara. Boasting mile after mile of empty beaches that see 25-knot winds brush against it every day from July to December, this is a classic spot. Prea also borders the National Park of Jericoacoara.
ON THE WATER: Wake-up in the morning and launch! Since 1984 Jericoacoara has been part of an environmental protection area that extends over 500 acres. Within this area lie gigantic dunes, crystal-clear lagoons, stunning mangroves and coconut tree groves, caves, tranquil sea coves and several beaches with good waves.
The water goes from flat to waves in the afternoon and so this spot is ideal for beginner to expert riding levels. No need to worry about it getting crowded either, there is plenty of room to launch and land. If you've never experienced a Brazilian beach, then you're in for a treat; they're seemingly endless. The sand is fine with only a few sticks scattered here to there. The wind is cross to cross-onshore, so any problems and you will simply be able to self-rescue yourself back to the beach.
WIND & WEATHER: Among other reasons, lying at the core of why Brazil has shot up the world kiteboarding hot-spot ratings is its utter reliability for wind. From July to December the wind will blow at least 25 knots from the east or northeast every, single day, 100%. It's very strong in August and gets progressively less until January. January to June see a slight dip in form, performing between 15 and 20 knots four to seven days a week. Shocking. Adding to the shame is a horrendously satisfying air temperature of 28 to 30°C from June to December and a little less the rest of the year.
WATER: Flat water in the morning gives way to choppy conditions at midday. By the afternoon you can get some really respectably-sized waves. The lagoons remain rideable all year although they do get busy, so the earlier you can get down the better. And in case you hadn't guessed already, the water is very warm all year long.
OFF THE WATER A fine example of the kind of looking-after you'll experience in Brazil is Ozone Travel's new offering, the Vila Prea; a stunning beach-front property just 15 minutes from Jericoacoara. Each bungalow has views to the sea, a private outdoor shower and free wireless access. Rancho Do Peixe is also located in Prea with everything from a beautiful view, pool, high-speed internet and more. Fifteen minutes away is Vila Kilango, a very luxurious hotel with a worldclass restaurant and facilities. Vela Windsurf Resorts have accommodations available located in Jericoacoara, too. The nightlife in the village is typically Brazilian and famous for its all night partying and authentic restaurants. This fishing village, just south of the equator, has in the region of 700 families that live off the daily catch and prepare for the evening's festivities.
AIRPORT: Fortaleza (FOR) - Prea is a three hour drive from Fortaleza. First 300 kilometres are tarmacked, after that, if you're hiring a car it's a good idea to make sure you get a 4x4 for Jericoacoara!
GETTING ABOUT: If you're not staying in Prea, it's best to rent a buggy for exploring and for transport from Jericoacoara to Prea. Plus, when else do you get to style around in a buggy for exploring and for riding in the sands!
DON'T MISS: Climb the dune Por Do Sol for a magical sunset and sandboard back down The array of restaurants and late night parties The national park offering miles of untouched beaches and fresh water lagoons
