Portugal is renowned for its world-class surf spots, attracting surfers from all over the globe. With over 800 kilometers of coastline, the Portuguese coast offers a variety of waves for all levels of surfers. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the best surf spots on the Portuguese coast.
Best surf spots in Portugal
Peniche
Peniche is a world-famous surfing destination located on the west coast of Portugal. The area is known for its consistent, high-quality waves that attract surfers from around the globe. The most famous surf spot in Peniche is Supertubos, which hosts the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour event every year.
In addition to Supertubos, there are several other surf breaks in the area that cater to surfers of all levels. The best time to surf in Peniche is during the fall and winter months when the swells are strongest.
Ericeira
Ericeira is a charming coastal town located just north of Lisbon, Portugal and is considered one of Europe’s surfing meccas. It is a popular destination for surfers of all levels due to its consistent waves and variety of surf breaks. The town is home to some of the best surf spots in Europe, including Ribeira d’Ilhas, which is a World Surf Reserve and one of the most famous waves in Portugal (first spot having surf championship in Portugal).
Ericeira is also known for its lively surf culture and charming village feel, making it a great destination for surfers and non-surfers alike. The best time to surf in Ericeira is from fall to spring, when the swells are at their strongest.
Nazaré
Nazare is a small fishing village located on the west coast of Portugal, known for its enormous waves that draw surfers from around the world. The Nazare Canyon, an undersea trench off the coast of Nazare, creates waves that can reach up to 100 feet tall, making it a popular destination for big wave surfers. In 2011, American surfer Garrett McNamara famously surfed a 78-foot wave at Nazare, setting the world record for the largest wave ever surfed. While Nazare is not recommended for beginners, there are several other surf spots in the area that cater to surfers of all levels. The best time to surf in Nazare is during the winter months when the swells are strongest.
Sagres
Sagres is a small town located on the southwestern tip of Portugal and is known for its beautiful beaches and consistent surf breaks. The area is popular among surfers of all levels due to its variety of waves, from gentle beach breaks to more challenging reef breaks. The town is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique and exciting surf experience. The best time to surf in Sagres is during the fall and winter months when the swells are strongest. The area is known for its laid-back surf culture, making it an excellent destination for surfers looking for a relaxed and authentic surf experience.
Costa da Caparica
Caparica is a popular surfing destination located just south of Lisbon, Portugal. The area is known for its long stretches of beach and consistent waves that cater to surfers of all levels, from beginners to experts. The best time to surf in Caparica is during the fall and winter months when the swells are strongest, and the crowds are smaller. The local surf community is friendly and welcoming, making Caparica an excellent place to experience the Portuguese surf culture.
You have many spots over there, so if what you see doesn’t fit you, you can do 5 min by car and have a complete different wave.
In conclusion, the Portuguese coast offers some of the best surf spots in the world, attracting surfers of all levels from around the globe. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a surf spot on the Portuguese coast waiting for you to catch a wave.
