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

Bolina, also known as Praia do Pescoço do Cavalo, located in São João do Estoril between Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz, offers a short and fast right-hander suitable for experienced surfers only. Unlike the more user-friendly beaches nearby, Bolina is a powerful reef break that can offer incredible tube sections.

The wave at Bolina typically breaks over a shallow reef, providing a challenging ride with powerful sections. This spot is renowned for its explosive power and can offer world-class waves when the conditions are right.

Bolina can be surfed on most tides, but low tide is often too shallow and mid tide usually the best. It needs a solid swell to start breaking, but when it’s on you can get the wave of your lifetime. Since there is only one peak at Bolina, it gets easily crowded. Respect the locals and their priority.

Please note that the best time to surf this stretch of coast is October to March. In the summer there are usually no waves!

Plan your surf trip to Bolina and experience the thrill of riding powerful waves. This challenging spot is perfect for experienced surfers seeking a powerful and unforgettable wave. Check out our Lisbon Surf Trip Guide for all the details!

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Surf Spot Details

Facilities

Car Park
WC
Shower
Restaurant

Surf Level

Beginners

Intermediate

Advanced

Pro

Wave Direction

Right

Tide

Mid

Swell

West

Wind

North

Bottom

Reef

Season

October to March

Consistency

Localism

Crowd

Average Water Temperature

Summer: 20.3°C
Autumn: 19.3°C
Winter: 15.9°C
Spring: 16.5°C

Surf Forecast

Location & Directions

Bolina (Praia do Pescoço do Cavalo) is located in São João do Estoril between Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz, a scenic stretch of coastline easily accessible by car or public transport.

For detailed directions to Bolina, check out the Location & Directions section on our Lisbon Surf Trip Guide. Once in Lisbon, use the embedded Google Maps tool to easily navigate to this hidden gem.

Bolina, located in São João Estoril, offers a relaxed surf experience with small, fun waves that are perfect for beginners and longboarders. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a mellow session, having the right surf gear will make all the difference.

Best Surfboards for Bolina

  • 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 Bolina

The Atlantic water in Cascais remains cool year-round, so wearing the right wetsuit is key for an enjoyable surf session.

  • 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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