Surf Ericeira

Matadouro - Ericeira, Portugal Matadouro features powerful, ledgey waves breaking both right and left over a sandy bottom mixed with rock. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and is open to the public. Ideal conditions occur at mid tide with rising and falling tides, particularly when swells come from the Northwest, West, or Southwest. Caution is advised due to the presence of urchins and rocks. Known locally as Pedra Branca, this surf spot is easily recognizable from the main campsite and town. On smaller days, surfers can enjoy a fun, shallow left, while autumn swells can produce heavy waves that create square barrels, reaching up to 6 meters. The spot can get crowded, especially with local experts during prime conditions. Paddling out is manageable after navigating the rocks, making it a popular choice from September to May for optimal surf experiences.

Ribeira D'Ilhas - Ericeira, Portugal Ribeira D'Ilhas is a renowned point break that breaks to the right over flat rocks. This powerful and fun surf spot is best during mid tide with rising and falling tides, receiving consistent swells from the Northwest and West. Access is straightforward, with instant access to the beach in under 5 minutes. Nestled in a picturesque setting with cliffs and sandy beaches, Ribeira D'Ilhas attracts a diverse crowd of surfers, particularly longboarders, making it quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak surf seasons. The spot is well-equipped with nearby parking and a bar for convenience. While the waves cater to various board types, including shortboards and longboards, be mindful of potential rips. The prime surfing season runs from September to May, offering the most reliable conditions for enthusiasts looking to enjoy this vibrant surf locale.

Praia Grande - Lisbon Area Praia Grande features a versatile beach break with sandy bottoms, offering both right and left waves. The wave characteristics include fast and powerful drops, with good tube opportunities at low tide. This spot works well at all tides, making it a reliable choice for surfers year-round. Located near Cabo da Roca, Praia Grande is easily accessible with instant access from parking areas. The beach attracts a mix of surfers, from beginners to advanced, especially on weekends when it can get crowded. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a day of surfing or relaxing with friends. While the waves are consistent, be prepared for localism and a busy lineup when conditions are optimal. With its stunning coastal views and reliable surf, Praia Grande is a must-visit for anyone in the Lisbon area.

Cresmina - Praia Do Guincho Cresmina features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is accessible via a short walk (5-15 minutes) and is open to the public. Ideal conditions occur at mid and high tide, particularly during falling tide, with minimal crowds on weekdays and a few surfers on weekends. Located near Lisbon, Cresmina is a favored alternative for local surfers when city breaks are subpar. The beach is known for its consistent surfable conditions throughout the year, making it a versatile spot for various board types, including shortboards and longboards. While it can attract windsurfing enthusiasts in summer, the powerful waves keep surfers returning. The best surf seasons are from September to November and March to May, with optimal wind directions from East-NorthEast to SouthEast. Be prepared for increased crowds on weekends and during peak surf days.

Cave (Sete Bafos) - Ericeira, Portugal Cave is a right-breaking reef wave characterized by its hollow, fast, and powerful nature, breaking over flat rocks. This heavy wave works best at mid to high tide with rising and falling tides, and is optimal under northeast and east winds, as well as north and northwest swells. Located near Crazy Left, Cave is known for its intense conditions and is often less crowded, making it a prime choice when nearby spots are full. The wave is notorious for its massive spray and hollow barrels, attracting experienced surfers seeking adrenaline. Access involves a short walk, and while the area is public, caution is advised due to the rocky bottom. With its reputation for being one of the heaviest waves in Ericeira, Cave is a must-visit for thrill-seekers looking to test their skills in challenging surf.

Guincho - Cascais, Portugal Guincho is a powerful beach break featuring both right and left waves over a sandy bottom mixed with rocks. Located at coordinates 38.7301° N, 9.4754° W, it offers instant access with a walk of less than 5 minutes from parking. The spot works at all tides, with optimal conditions during falling tide and favorable wind from the South and East. Praia do Guincho is a renowned surf destination near Lisbon, attracting local surfers year-round due to its consistent surfable conditions. The beach is expansive and rarely flat, making it ideal for various board types, including shortboards and longboards. The best surf seasons are from September to November and March to May. While weekdays see fewer surfers, weekends can be ultra-crowded, especially on good days. Be cautious of rips and rocks, and check wind directions for optimal surfing conditions.

Reef - Ericeira Reef is a powerful right-hander breaking over a shallow, rocky bottom. This fast and hollow wave is best surfed at low and mid tide, with optimal conditions coming from a northwesterly swell and east winds. Access involves a short walk (5-15 minutes) along a challenging trail, making it suitable for experienced surfers. Located near Ribeira d'Ilhas, Reef is renowned for its thrilling tubing experiences, attracting skilled riders eager for a challenge. The unique underwater landscape adds to the excitement, but caution is advised due to potential hazards like urchins and sharp rocks. While the spot can become crowded on weekends, it remains relatively empty during the week, offering a more serene surfing experience. Be prepared for localism and ensure you have a reliable vehicle to navigate the rough access road.

# Adraga - Portugal Adraga features a powerful point break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The waves are known for their hollow, fast, and ledgey characteristics, making it suitable for experienced surfers. Access involves a short walk of 5-15 minutes, and the spot is publicly accessible. Located near Almocageme, Adraga works best during low to mid tide with rising tide conditions. The ideal swell directions are from the North, Northwest, West, and Northeast, while the wind should come from the South, Southeast, or East. During weekdays, the crowd is manageable with few surfers, but expect a bustling scene on weekends. Be cautious of localism and rocky areas when surfing this stunning spot.

Coxos - Portugal Coxos is a right-hand reef break characterized by hollow, fast, and powerful waves that break over flat rocks. Located about 50 km north of Lisbon, it offers instant access with a short walk (<5 min) from a dirt parking lot. The best conditions occur at low and mid tide, with optimal swell from the northwest. Often regarded as one of Europe's premier surf spots, Coxos features a unique setup that can deliver exhilarating rides, especially when the swell aligns perfectly. The wave peels into a small bay, but be cautious of the localism and crowded conditions, particularly on weekends. The entry can be steep and rocky, requiring some effort to navigate. Respect the locals and the tight takeoff zone to enjoy this challenging yet rewarding surf experience.

Santa Rita - Portugal Santa Rita features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The waves are characterized as ordinary to fun, making it suitable for various skill levels. Access is instant, requiring less than 5 minutes of walking, and the spot is publicly accessible. Located in Portugal, Santa Rita offers optimal conditions with low to mid tide and rising and falling tides. The ideal swell direction comes from the Northwest and West, while the wind should ideally blow from the Southeast or East. The spot remains uncrowded during the week and weekends, providing a tranquil surfing experience. However, surfers should be cautious of rips and undertow, which can pose dangers in certain conditions.

Praia Azul - Portugal Praia Azul features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. Known for its consistency, this spot works at all tides and is best with swells from the North and Northwest, complemented by winds from the Southeast and East. The waves can be hollow, fast, and powerful, making it suitable for various skill levels. This long stretch of sand is one of the most reliable surf spots in the region, particularly from June to November. With easy access and ample parking, surfers can explore multiple peaks along the beach. While it generally remains uncrowded during the week, weekends may see more activity. However, the beach's layout allows for finding your own wave. Be cautious of heavy conditions and rips when the swell is large, and always surf within your limits to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Praia das Maçãs - Lisbon Coastline Praia das Maçãs features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and works well at all tides, particularly benefiting from rising and falling tide movements. It is known for its powerful yet fun surf conditions. This beach attracts surfers seeking a relaxed atmosphere, offering a mix of surf conditions that can vary with swells from the northwest, west, and southwest. While it primarily works best at low tide, the wedgy lefts off the cliffs can amplify the swell, providing reliable sessions. Although it may not hold significant size, the casual vibe and variety of waves make Praia das Maçãs a worthwhile destination for surfers when conditions align. Expect fewer surfers during the week, but it can get crowded on weekends.

Foz do Lizandro - Portugal Foz do Lizandro is a beach break featuring both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. This spot works at all tides, with optimal conditions during falling tide. It offers a mix of powerful and fun waves, making it suitable for various skill levels, including beginners during low tide. Located just 5 minutes from the center of Ericeira, this river mouth surf spot is often less crowded, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for surfers. While it may not always deliver exceptional surf, there are times when conditions align for enjoyable sessions. The beach is complemented by friendly locals and amenities such as bars and restaurants serving fresh fish. Surfers should check conditions before heading out, as they can change rapidly, but patience often rewards those who time their visits well.

Praia do Norte - Ericeira Praia do Norte features fun, consistent waves breaking both right and left over a reef bottom composed of coral and sharp rocks, with some sandy areas. The spot is accessible via a short 5-15 minute walk from the parking area on the cliff, situated between the city of Ericeira and the campsite. This surf spot is ideal for those seeking a less crowded alternative, especially when popular locations are packed. It works best during low and mid tides with rising and falling tide movements, and is favored by southeast and east winds. Surfers should be cautious of submerged rocks and urchins while paddling in and out. The beach's proximity to local amenities enhances its appeal, allowing surfers to easily grab food or take surf lessons. Overall, Praia do Norte offers a great vibe and reliable surf conditions for both locals and visitors.

Magoito - Portugal Magoito features a fun point break with waves breaking both right and left over a bottom of flat rocks and sand. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk from Praia do Magoito, which is well-known and easy to find. This surf spot works well at all tides, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides. The ideal swell direction comes from the West, SouthWest, and South, while the wind should ideally blow from the SouthEast, East, or NorthEast. While Magoito can get crowded on weekends, it typically sees few surfers during the week, making it a great option for those seeking a more relaxed session. The local atmosphere is friendly, adding to the overall enjoyable experience at this picturesque location.

Sao Lourenco - Portugal Sao Lourenco features powerful sandbar waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom with rocks. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and is located near Ribamar, making it easy to reach from the main road. Ideal conditions occur with a rising tide and mid tide, particularly when the swell comes from the northwest and the wind from the southeast or east. This renowned surf destination is favored by experienced surfers due to its consistent and hefty waves. Despite its power, Sao Lourenco remains relatively uncrowded, especially during the week, allowing for a more enjoyable surf experience. Surfers are advised to use larger boards to catch the bigger sets rolling in from the west. With its combination of challenging conditions and manageable crowds, Sao Lourenco is a must-visit for those looking to test their skills in a stunning Portuguese setting.

Tamariz - Estoril, Portugal Tamariz features a left-breaking beach break with a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The waves are known for being hollow, fast, and fun, making it ideal for experienced surfers. The spot works best at mid tide with rising and falling tides, and is optimal with north to northeast winds and swells from the west and southwest. Located just after Cascais, Tamariz is easily accessible from the Estoril Train Station, with instant access to the beach. The atmosphere is pleasant, complemented by four nearby bars, though the spot can be quiet during the week and sees a few surfers on weekends. Caution is advised due to rocks, and it’s essential to check conditions beforehand, as the waves only perform well with favorable wind and swell. Enjoy the vibrant local scene while catching some quality surf!

Poça - Cascais, Portugal Poça features a reef break with both right and left waves, characterized by hollow, fast, and fun conditions. The bottom consists of coral and sharp rocks mixed with sand. This spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and works well at all tides, primarily with a northeast swell direction. Known for its consistent surf, Poça is a user-friendly alternative to the more challenging Bolina. The atmosphere is relaxed, attracting both locals and visitors. While the spot can get crowded on weekends, weekdays see fewer surfers. Be mindful of localism and respect the locals to ensure a positive experience. The uneven reef sections can present challenges, so it's essential to monitor swell and tide patterns for the best conditions. With a restaurant and bar nearby, Poça offers a perfect blend of surf and leisure for a laid-back day at the beach.

Santa Cruz - Portugal Santa Cruz features powerful beach breaks with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. Access requires a short walk of 5-15 minutes, and the spot is publicly accessible. Ideal conditions occur with west winds and east swells, but be cautious of localism. This surf spot is popular among locals and visitors alike, offering a vibrant atmosphere, particularly in summer. While the main peaks can become crowded, exploring further along the beach can reveal quieter waves. Autumn, especially from September to November, is considered the prime season for clean conditions. Surfers should be prepared for strong currents and rip tides, making it essential to choose the right board—whether a shortboard, funboard, or longboard—to match the powerful waves. Parking is conveniently available along the clifftop, enhancing accessibility for those eager to surf.

Papuços - Praia do Sul Papuços features a left-breaking reef wave characterized by hollow, fast sections over flat rocks. Ideal for aerial maneuvers, the wave works best at mid tide during rising conditions, with optimal swell from the west or southwest and wind from the south, southeast, or east. Access is instant, with public access available. Situated in a sheltered corner of Praia do Sul, this spot can be a reliable choice when larger north or northwest swells are present, often working while other beaches are flat. While the best waves are found off the headland, smaller swells produce several peaks, albeit of lesser quality. The beach is typically quiet, but can attract surfers when conditions align. Caution is advised due to rocks on the inside, especially during bigger swells.

São Julião - Ericeira São Julião features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The waves are generally powerless, making it suitable for surfers of all levels. Access is straightforward, with instant access in under 5 minutes from parking, and the beach is publicly accessible. This long and picturesque beach near Ericeira is renowned for its consistent surf and scenic views. While it can become crowded during summer, there are usually waves to catch at any tide. On smaller days, the beach can get busy, particularly if the wind picks up, which may affect conditions. Despite this, São Julião offers a relaxed atmosphere and fun waves, making it a worthwhile destination. Surfers should remain mindful of the conditions and share the lineup with others to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Pedra Branca - Ericeira, Portugal Pedra Branca features a powerful left-breaking reef wave over a rocky bottom, known for its hollow and fast characteristics. This spot works best at mid to high tide during rising tide conditions, with optimal swell from the west, southwest, and south. Access is straightforward, with a walk of less than 5 minutes from the nearest road. Located near the main campsite in Ericeira, Pedra Branca is a popular surf destination, especially during the autumn swells when waves can reach impressive heights of up to 6 meters. The atmosphere is respectful, but expect crowds on weekends as local surfers flock to catch the heavy barrels. While the wave can be fun on smaller days, caution is advised due to the presence of sharp rocks and sea urchins. The best time to surf here is from September to May, making it a prime spot for those seeking thrilling surf experiences.

Cabo Raso - Portugal Cabo Raso features powerful right-breaking waves over a rocky reef with a flat rock bottom. This spot is exclusively for tow-in surfing, making it a unique and challenging location. It is known for its heavy and dangerous conditions, rarely surfed by anyone until now. Accessed via a short walk from the road, Cabo Raso is located between Carcavelos and Guincho. The spot works best at mid to high tide, with optimal swell coming from the west, southwest, and south. Wind from the north, east, or northeast enhances the wave quality. Due to its remote nature, Cabo Raso remains uncrowded during the week and on weekends. However, surfers should be cautious of rips, undertow, and submerged rocks. Always check with locals before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly.

Bolina - São João Bolina features a right-breaking reef wave over flat rocks, delivering fast, ordinary, and ledgey conditions. Access is straightforward, with parking available at Poça and a short walk to the spot. Entry requires navigating down stairs and across rocks. Ideal conditions occur at mid tide with a falling tide, and it works best with swell from the Northwest, West, Southwest, and South. Located in the Lisbon suburbs, Bolina is part of a series of three reefs, with this spot positioned at the far west. While it can be charming, it’s not beginner-friendly; solid surfing skills are essential. Expect a localized crowd, particularly during peak surf times, as the waves can attract attention. Checking the surf forecast is advisable to ensure optimal conditions, as they can vary. Bolina promises an engaging surf experience for those prepared to tackle its challenges.

Praia Pequena - Sintra Praia Pequena features a versatile beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom. The waves are known for being fast and powerful, making it suitable for various skill levels. Access is easy, with instant access in under 5 minutes from the right side of Praia Grande. This surf spot is popular among surfers, particularly beginners, due to its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. It works well at all tides, with optimal conditions when the swell comes from the NorthWest, SouthWest, or East, and the wind is from the East. While weekdays see fewer surfers, expect a crowded lineup on weekends. Overall, Praia Pequena offers a reliable and enjoyable surfing experience, perfect for a fun day in the water or relaxing on the beach with friends.