Praia do José Menino is a beach in Santos, São Paulo, and is the first beach encountered when arriving in the city. The beach features a landscaped shoreline with a dedicated bicycle path, or ciclovia, running along it. Access for paddlers is straightforward, with the beach serving as the primary put-in and take-out point. Parking and direct access to the sand are available, making it a convenient launch site for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. The beach is an active venue for surfing competitions, with events like the Circuito Santista de Surf being held there, indicating the presence of rideable waves. Reports from these competitions mention wave heights exceeding one meter, which suggests paddlers launching through the surf should be prepared for a shore break, particularly during swell events. The beach's exposure to the open Atlantic means it can be subject to wind and swell conditions typical of the region. A notable man-made feature offshore is the Emissário Submarino, a submarine outfall constructed in the 1970s. The extensive, landscaped orla provides amenities for visitors, and the connected Ciclovia Praia de Santos offers a long, paved route for those interested in combining cycling with their beach visit. The overall character is that of an urban Atlantic beach with developed infrastructure, active wave sports, and easy vehicular access from São Paulo.