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Backdoor Surf Spot Details: Your Complete Surf Guide & Travel Planner

Ready to level up your surfing adventure? Backdoor, an exposed reef break in Ericeira, beckons experienced surfers seeking powerful, barreling waves.

Located between Reef and Pedra Branca, Backdoor demands expert skills and delivers an adrenaline rush like no other. Its right-hand reef break offers thrilling sections that can produce near-perfect tubes on ideal days.

Backdoor’s magic unfolds with offshore winds from the east and swells from the northwest. Time your visit right and experience the sheer exhilaration of carving through Backdoor’s hollow barrels.

Important notes:

  • Backdoor is not for the faint of heart. Only advanced surfers should attempt to ride its waves.
  • The reef can be shallow, so be aware of your surroundings and take all necessary safety precautions.
  • Backdoor can get crowded, so be patient and respectful of other surfers.

Ready to conquer Backdoor? Plan your surf trip to Ericeira now and discover everything this surfing paradise has to offer with our Ericeira Surf Trip Guide.

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Surf Spot Details

Facilities

Car Park

Beach Safety

Emergency Contact: 112

Surf Level

Beginners

Intermediate

Advanced

Pro

Wave Direction

Right

Tide

Mid to High

Swell

Northwest

Wind

East

Bottom

Reef

Season

All year

Consistency

Localism

Crowd

Average Water Temperature

Summer: 19.3°C
Autumn: 19.0°C
Winter: 15.8°C
Spring: 16.1°C

Surf Forecast

Location & Directions

Backdoor is a renowned surf spot located on the northern side of Praia da Empa, just next to the famous Reef surf break. Known for its powerful, hollow barrels and demanding take-offs, Backdoor offers one of the most exciting and challenging waves in Ericeira. The break is driven by a shallow reef that extends into deeper waters, creating thrilling conditions for advanced surfers.

Access to Backdoor, Reef, and Pedra Branca is via Praia da Empa, which has well-maintained terrain, making it easy to reach the spots by foot or surfboard. Paddle out from Praia da Empa and navigate around the point to reach these legendary breaks.

For detailed directions to Backdoor Surf Spot, check the Location & Directions section on our main page, Ericeira Surf Trip Guide. Use the embedded Google Maps tool below to help navigate to Praia da Empa.

Ready to take on the powerful waves at Backdoor? Pack your board, check the surf conditions, and prepare for a thrilling surfing adventure at one of Ericeira’s most iconic spots!

Backdoor is one of the most iconic surf spots, known for its powerful and fast-barreling waves. It’s a spot where surfers push their limits, looking for the perfect barrel ride. Whether you’re an experienced surfer chasing big waves or an intermediate rider aiming to improve, having the right surf gear is essential to handle the challenging conditions of this legendary reef break.

Best Surfboards for Backdoor

  • For Beginners: A softboard or longboard is ideal for stability and easy paddling.
  • For Intermediates: A funboard or performance shortboard is great for progressing in medium-sized waves.
  • For More Advanced Surfers: A high-performance shortboard is perfect when the waves pick up.

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Wetsuits – Stay Comfortable and Protected at Backdoor

The Atlantic waters at Ericeira can be cool throughout the year, so selecting the right wetsuit is crucial for comfort and endurance.

  • Autumn & Spring (16-20°C): 3/2mm wetsuit for flexibility and comfort.
  • Winter (12-16°C): 4/3mm wetsuit to keep warm in chilly waters.

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Essential Surf Accessories

  • Leash: Strong, durable leashes are critical for holding onto your board in strong currents.
  • Wax & Traction Pads: Extra grip is essential for big wave surfing.
  • Board Bags & Covers: Protect your board from damage while traveling.

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Want to Learn More About the Best Surf Gear?

Check our Complete Surf Gear Guide for expert recommendations and tips on choosing the right equipment.

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