Portugal managed to get the lion’s share as regards Iberia’s Atlantic coastline. Spain stalwartly creeps in in the north with a few choice spots, though most of this swell battered coast is in the hands of their neighbours. Clearly Spain didn’t have surfing in mind when they were divvying up the Peninsula.
Portugal is the proud owner of over 1,000 km of coastline consisting of some fantastic points, breaks, reefs and beaches – among these are some of the most celebrated surf spots in the world. The water has a slight chill to it even in the summer months, which can be quite refreshing on a sweltering day, but a wetsuit is key for a Portuguese surf session all year round.
When surfing Portugal you’ll find no end of varied and different spots – a favourite for surf schools and professionals alike is the peninsula of Peniche. Less than 100 km from Lisbon this chunk of land jutting defiantly into the Atlantic works on almost every swell and wind direction.
The surf schools in Peniche go for the gentle chest-high breakers of beaches such as the comparatively placid Cantinho da Baia, a slightly sheltered playground for beginners and intermediates. While just round the corner you’ll find the sleeping giant of Supertubos. This big fella requires a lot to wake him up, a two metre swell should do it, but when he does it’s a hell of a thing. These cavernous, hollow barrels attract the surfing pro tour every year.
Great weather, beautiful people, regal cities, lush countryside, rich history… and lets not forget about the surf. So grab your wetsuit, buy a phrasebook and put your best ‘getting barrelled’ face on for a Portugal surfing holiday. Saúde!
