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Pedra Branca Surf Spot Details: Your Complete Surf Guide & Travel Planner

Pedra Branca (meaning “white stone”), located in Ericeira, is the first wave of the World Surfing Reserve and is widely regarded as the best lefthander in the area. To access this spot, follow the dirt road near Camping Ericeira. Pedra Branca is situated at the southern end of Praia da Empa, right next to the famous Backdoor surf spot.

Known for its perfect tubes and shallow reef bottom, Pedra Branca is a wave that demands respect. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but for those ready for the challenge, it offers an incredibly rewarding experience.

The best time to surf Pedra Branca is during the winter months when the swells are at their biggest. However, it can be surfed year-round, making it a great option for those seeking a challenging wave.

If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush, Pedra Branca is the place for you. Just be sure to be well-prepared and surf within your limits.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Pedra Branca:

  • This spot is suitable for experienced surfers only. Beginners and intermediates should avoid surfing Pedra Branca.
  • There are no lifeguards at Pedra Branca. Surf with a buddy and take all necessary safety precautions.
  • Access to the beach is via a dirt track, so be prepared for a short walk.
  • There are no facilities at the beach, so bring everything you need with you.

Ready to take on one of the most challenging and rewarding waves in Ericeira? Pedra Branca is waiting for you. Make sure you’re prepared for the ride of your life!

Plan your surf trip to Ericeira now and explore 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

Left

Tide

Mid to High

Swell

Northwest

Wind

Northeast, 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

Pedra Branca is a renowned surf spot located at the southern point of Praia da Empa, adjacent to the famous Backdoor surf break, approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Lisbon. Known for its powerful left-hand barrels and challenging take-offs, Pedra Branca offers one of the most thrilling and demanding waves in Ericeira. The wave breaks over a shallow reef, creating fast, hollow barrels that require precise timing and skill.

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

For detailed directions to Pedra Branca 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 challenge yourself at Pedra Branca? Grab your board, check the conditions, and get ready for an unforgettable surfing experience at one of Ericeira’s most powerful surf spots!

Pedra Branca is renowned for its fast and powerful reef breaks, offering some of the most challenging surf conditions. Whether you’re looking to catch long, hollow left-handers or challenge yourself with steep drops, having the right surf gear is crucial to handling these demanding waves.

Best Surfboards for Pedra Branca

  • 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 Pedra Branca

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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