The Best Surf Beaches in Portugal
If you are planning a holiday in Portugal and cannot resist catching some waves, take note of 10 must-see places to surf.
Portugal is one of the most renowned destinations for surfing. If you are visiting, All About Portugal has thought of you and proposes a list of 10 surf beaches. With a mild and temperate climate, and with more than 800 kilometres of coastline, there is no shortage of options with exceptional conditions to practice the sport and catch the best wave. From north to south of Portugal there are choices for all tastes. From beaches with fast and big waves, for experienced surfers, to beaches with more constant waves for those who are just starting or want a more relaxed family surf holiday.
Ribeira d'Ilhas Beach - Ericeira
Protected by the cliffs, this beach located in Ericeira was established by the Save The Waves international organization as a World Surfing Reserve, being the only one in European territory, with a total of 10 reservations worldwide. There are four kilometres of coastline with seven waves of unique characteristics and the Ribeira d'Ilhas wave is one of them.
Medão / Supertubos Beach - Peniche
The fast, tubular wave became so famous that it ended up renaming Medão Beach, now better known as Supertubos, the name given to the Left Wave that takes surfers from all over the world to Peniche. The beach, with an extensive shore, receives many international events and is recommended for surfers with a lot of experience.
Praia do Norte - Nazaré
It is internationally known for its giant waves, caused by the “Nazaré Canyon”, which allows the formation of unusual and fast curls. It was also here that the surfer Garrett McNamara established the 100ft world record wave, back in 2013. For many reasons, it is recommended for experienced practitioners. However, for those who prefer to stay on dry land and simply want to witness Nazaré’s jaw-dropping swell, we suggest a visit to the Viewpoint of the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo.
Buarcos Beach – Figueira da Foz
Beach located north of Figueira da Foz with an extensive shore. It is known for providing the famous “Right Wave”, much to the delight of surf lovers, especially less experienced surfers. It is an intense tubular wave, considered by many to be the longest right wave in Europe.
Carcavelos Beach- Cascais
It is a beach that is distinguished by its accessibility and location, next to the Fort of São Julião da Barra, ideal for those who are close to the city and cannot make many kilometres to surf. Here the wave is tubular, fast, and powerful, but suitable for all levels. It is extremely popular with young people, with schools even operating on the beach.
Arrifana Beach - Aljezur
It is a beach recommended for experienced surfers. To reach the beach, you must first go down some steep stairs. On the way down you will enjoy the view of this magnificent beach located in a small fishing village. The sea is a clear and transparent blue, with strong and fast waves, which require some experience.
Amado Beach - Aljezur
It is the reference beach for those who aspire to start in the sport, with very consistent waves due to the strong currents. With a large beach protected by small hills and rock formations, it has excellent conditions for surfing. It frequently hosts international surf competitions.
Cabedelo Beach – Viana do Castelo
With a wide dune system, it is a highly regarded beach, with its extensive shore of fine golden sand and transparent waters. It is characterized by strong winds and steep waves throughout the year, and it is ideal for all levels. There are even surf schools and other water sports operating on the beach.
CDS Beach - Cantinho dos Surfistas – Costa da Caparica
Known by many as "O Cantinho dos Surfistas" (The Surfers’ Corner), this small beach, with its soft waves, became popular among surf lovers in Portugal. The access roads are paved, and parking is available nearby, making it a fast-access beach for catching some waves.
Matosinhos Beach
This urban beach offers an extensive shore and benefits from a good location and proximity to the city. Because of this, it is ideal for those who cannot go one day without surfing the waves. Surf schools and other water sports modalities operate on the beach. It is therefore suitable for surfers of all levels.
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