Explore the Portuguese waves
From a surfer’s standpoint, Portugal has it all: awesome waves in world-renowned surf spots, but also waves with different characteristics and for all skill levels; mild weather and year-round sunshine; amazing views; a welcoming culture; delicious cuisine; and authentic charm. A total experience. Here’s what you need to know to plan your best trip.
Ericeira is classified as a world surfing reserve by the American organization Save the Waves Coalition for being one of the world’s rare places with a high density of outstanding surf breaks. This classification covers a 4-km stretch including seven world-class breaks: Pedras Brancas, Reef, Ribeira de Ilhas, Cave, Crazy Left, Coxos and São Lourenço.
Further north, near Peniche, Supertubos beach is known for its great tubular waves and is popular with surfers from around the world. It’s also the stage for some World Surf League Tour events.
The giant waves at Praia do Norte, (praia means “beach”), known as the Nazaré canyon, are only for the most intrepid. These waves, which can reach up to 30 meters, broke the world record for the highest wave in 2011 and have been surfed by professionals such as Garrett McNamara, who use the tow-in system. That means they’re towed into the peak by a jet ski and then slide down on their board.
On the outskirts of Lisbon, the Santo Amaro de Oeiras, Carcavelos and São Pedro do Estoril beaches are good for surfing and bodyboarding. Further afield in the heart of the Natural Park, Guincho offers quite consistent waves,; Praia Grande, in Sintra parish, is particularly appreciated for bodyboarding. One event of the sport’s world championship is held here.
In the Centro region, Praia de Buarcos, close to Figueira da Foz, and in the Aveiro area near Ílhavo, Praia da Barra stand out for what are considered the longest waves in Europe, which can reach 200 meters. Further north, Espinho is known for its mythical wave, the “Casino Right-hander”, but Matosinhos, quite close to Porto, and Viana do Castelo, especially Praia da Arda in Afife, further up, also deserve a mention.
South of Lisbon, in Costa da Caparica, Cova do Vapor and Praia do CDS are names to remember. Near Sines, other top spots include São Torpes and Praia dos Aivados, and on the west coast of the Algarve, Arrifana, Bordeira, Amado, Cordoama and Castelejo beaches are very popular.
In the Atlantic, the Island of Madeira offers memorable waves at Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar. The Azoresv archipelago also has some truly magical spots: the Areal de Santa Bárbarav and Monte Verde beaches, which host a World Qualifying Series (WQS) event, and the south-facing Praia do Pópulo, all on São Miguel Island. Also consider Praia Formosa on the Island of Santa Maria; Praia da Vitória, on the Island of Terceira; and in the fajãs on the Island of São Jorge, especially Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, which is regarded as a mythical spot.
Portugal is a country of great waves; come try them out!
1/
Peniche
2/
Surfing in Nazaré, João Macedo
3/
Surf Carcavelos
4/
Surfing in Carcavelos
5/
Algarve Surf
Things to consider before traveling
How to choose your accommodation in Europe: a guide
In Europe, there is accommodation for every wish, price range, and desired experience. Whether it’s a tent suspended between two trees, a five-star hotel with a view of a turquoise sea, or a wallet-friendly hostel, it’s all here. The question is, what specific options do you have and how do you go about choosing? That’s […]
The ultimate guide to European currencies
How to convert cash, use cards, and reduce fees One of the great benefits of traveling around Europe is the ease of use when it comes to currencies. On much of the continent, you don’t need to worry about keeping different bills and coins or making mental-math conversations between one currency to another to […]
How to stay safe while traveling in Europe
No matter what, safety while traveling is most important. Luckily, Europe has a stellar safety record, and more than a dozen of its countries regularly appear at the top end of safest places to live and travel lists. To make your adventure safe and secure, consider these tips and best practices! Travel insurance […]
What you need to enter Europe
Visas, documents, and passports So, you are planning to visit Europe. Great! We will be happy to welcome you and share what makes this continent so unique. Here are answers to the most common questions about preparing for your trip. Addressing them now will make your travels smooth, easy, and convenient! Who needs a […]
Your complete guide to planning your daily life in Europe
Tips on local languages, mobile tech, and time zones We all know the feeling: your phone battery is dying or you’re passing through an area of weak signal. At home, it’s usually a simple annoyance, but when you’re traveling, not having access to a communications device is something you’ll want to avoid. So, how […]
Some tips to consider while traveling
Traveling around Europe
Your guide to trains, trams, busses and bikes Europe has one of the most advanced transportation systems in the world. From massive metropolises to small towns, you can easily link up from place to place by public transport. Riding the rails across this marvelous continent might be the best way to explore: it’s highly efficient, […]
Tips to communicate in Europe
Why speaking a few words of the local tongue will make your travel experience even better As you may have guessed, English is widely spoken in Europe, especially in northern countries. In many other countries, people have a good, if not fluent, grasp of the language. But that doesn’t mean that learning—and indeed using! […]
Your guide to passenger rights while traveling in Europe
If you’re a traveler, you’ve probably experienced a delay, cancellation, or other unforeseen issue. Of course, no one wants this, but it’s important to be prepared and perhaps most of all, to know your rights and privileges if a problem arises. So, what are your rights in Europe? Keep reading! Air Passenger Rights So, […]