Surfing in Portugal

Portugal is always famous for its surfing. It has around 586 miles of coastline with over 10 different surfing spots. But the most famous of all of them is Nazare. People have been surfing in Nazare for a decade. After football, surfing is the biggest spot in Portugal. It is known for some of the biggest and deadliest waves. Once a year, there comes a high wave for which most surfers wait a whole year. The wave’s height depends on some conditions. Normally, the height recorded was about 40-50 feet.

Well, this is a pretty big wave. Because of these high waves, you will see some breaks at the beach, as the hooks of the jet skis might break. Surfers from all over the World wait impatiently for the wave. Naturally, in winter, the biggest waves tend to be when the water is choppy. Another good thing about surfing in Portugal is that it’s a small country and tons of surfing spots. You can get to the surfing spot easily, as you can see in the image. Ericeira is also a famous surfing spot in Portugal.

Nazare Surf

Today, everyone knows Nazare because of its highest wave records. The best time to surf in Portugal is from September to April. In these months, high waves occur in the sea. These months are very special for surfers. This surf town has a variety of different waves throughout the whole year which can be experienced by both skilled and beginner surfers. Surfers from all over the World visit Nazare for surfing. Most people also go for surfing lessons in Portugal. Portugal’s Nazare holds a world record for big wave surfing. Hit the link below if you want to book a room in Nazare.

Few American surfers visited Nazare’s South Beach during the summer months, and they rode the relatively slow waves that broke there. Praia do Norte is on the other side of the fort; however, it’s tough to surf there. When the conditions end to be rough, local board riders like, more like their fishing counterparts, steered well of unruly waves.

An American surfer named Garret Mcnamara said, “I’ve never seen bigger waves than I’ve seen here.” Unlike other waves all around the World, Nazare has the highest. These waves terrified me with their height when I first saw them. If you are eager to go surfing but don’t know how to surf there is surf camp Portugal through which you can have surfing lessons. It’s a dream for most of the surfers to surf in Nazare. Surfing in Portugal is rising every year. 

History:

Surfing was pretty slow in Nazare in the 1960s; few American surfers visited during the calmer months of summer and rode the waves that broke along Nazare’s main beach, Praia do Sul (South Beach). Praia do Norte is on the other side of the fort; however, it’s tough to surf there. When the conditions end to be rough, local board riders, like their fishing counterparts, steered well of unruly waves.

Garret Mcnamara, an American surfer, said, “I’ve never seen bigger waves than I’ve seen here.” Unlike other waves all around the World, Nazare has the highest. When I first saw these waves, I was terrified of their height. If you are eager to go surfing but don’t know how to surf there is surf camp Portugal through which you can have surfing lessons. It’s a dream for most of the surfers to surf in Nazare. 

Cascais

Another great spot for surfing in Portugal is Cascais. It is one of the busiest surf towns in Portugal. Cascais is known for incredible surf and it’s worth all the hype. It stretches from Lisbon to the Sintra mountains. There are six main breaks that locals tend to surf. Two of the most popular are Carcavelos and Praia de Guincho. Carcavelos works best in the months from October to March. Also, if you don’t want to get tanned, don’t forget to use sunscreen.

Ericiera

A surf guide to Portugal wouldn’t completed without visiting Ericiera Portugal. This small surf town has a variety of different waves all year which both beginner and experienced surfers can surf. The two surf spots there are Sao Julio and Ribeira D’llhas. Sao Julio is located on the south side of Ericiera and Ribeira D’llhas.  In summertime when all other surf spots appear to be dead, Sao Julio is the only spot where you can decent surfable waves.  

Peniche. 

Peniche is a city which can’t be missed. It has more than 10 different surf spots, which is to choose from. The only thing you have to do is to find the perfect wave for yourself. There are two breaks Gigi and Supertubos. Gigi is a surf heaven for most of the surfers. During a rising tide and wind high waves are occurred in the water. This wave is said to be a mini-Pipeline, suited for experienced surfers. You will find some good waves here during winter and southern swells. You can also get surf hotels and surf camps.  

Paul do Mar. 

Another point for surfing in Portugal is Paul do Mar, which is located on the southwest coast of the island of Madeira. This town is gaining its reputation every year. Paul do Mar is now on the list of the most international surfers.  This traditional village which people could only by boat, is now a whole different island. Its clean curves are a different attraction for most of the surfers. The powerful and big waves are a major attraction. Ready your surfboards and bring them to Paul do Mar. 

Carcavelos Beach.  

When we discuss about surfing in Portugal, we can’t forget Carcavelos Beach in Portugal. It is near to closest of all to the center of Lisbon. It is one of the most popular beaches for surfing in Portugal. There are a variety of surf spots at the Carcavelos Beach each offering different wave conditions based on time of year and date.

Porto Surf. 

Porto is in Northern Portugal it starts Douro River wiggles in the east and meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is the capital of the Norto region. There are some little surf spots in Porto which are Praia de Costa Nova, Praia do Furadouro Sul, Cortegasa, and Esmoriz. These are some little surf spots. Well, they don’t have much higher waves but they are good for surfing. 

Guincho Beach. 

Praia do Guincho is well known for its wind and kite surfing. It is closer to Cabo de Roca. The waves at Guincho are suitable for beginner surfers on smaller days. But it gets very powerful when its size increases. This beach is mostly windy, with strong North winds known as ‘Nortada’, especially during summer. Guincho Beach is a great attraction for windsurfers and kitesurfers. Kite Surfing in Portugal is also a recreational activity at Guincho Beach. Guincho Beach is a good place for intermediate surfers and for those who are new to surfing. There is also a surf camp in Portugal at Guincho Beach

What is the best time to surf at Guincho Beach? 

If you want normal waves then you should surf here in summer from June to mid-September. In these months mid-level waves occur which makes it a popular spot for windsurfers and kitesurfers. But if you want to surf at Guincho Beach then should get there at the end of September and April.  

What to do in Portugal when the waves are flat?

Well, that’s a great question that most of the people ask. When the waves are flat then don’t worry you can explore Portugal. It has some of the most beautiful architecture. You can explore some of the famous museums like the National Coach Museum and the National Museum of Ancient Art. You can also visit Lisbon Cathedral which is most likely the cathedral in Paris. 

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, Portugal is a perfect place for surfing. It has diverse surf spots and consistent waves that cater to all skill levels. Portugal offers some of the world’s most famous surfing breaks. Whether you’re a seasoned pro chasing giant waves or a beginner eager to learn, Portugal’s surf culture is welcoming and vibrant. Like surfing people also visit the Blue Lagoon in Malta for snorkeling and swimming.