Nazaré Surf Spots: Your Complete Surf Guide

Nazaré in Portuguese doesn’t have a specific meaning itself. It actually originates from the biblical city of Nazareth.

The town most likely received its name because Nazaré, Portugal was originally a pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Many towns in Portugal are named after religious figures or places mentioned in the Bible.

Nazaré, Portugal is primarily known for two things:

Giant waves: Nazaré boasts some of the biggest waves ever recorded, making it a haven for big wave surfers and thrill-seekers. The unique underwater canyon funnels incoming swells, creating behemoth waves reaching a staggering 30 meters (100 feet) in height.

Charming seaside town: Beyond the giant waves, Nazaré offers a charming and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy its beautiful beaches, explore the traditional fishing culture, and savor delicious fresh seafood.

The best time to visit Nazaré depends on what you’re looking for:

Big wave watching: Season: October to March (winter) is the prime season for witnessing the awe-inspiring giant waves. This is when storms generate powerful swells that interact with Nazaré’s underwater canyon, creating record-breaking waves.

Surfing: Experienced surfers: Skilled big wave surfers flock to Nazaré during the winter months (October to March) to tackle these monstrous waves, requiring specialized equipment and support teams.

Pleasant weather and beach activities: Spring and Autumn (April-May & September-October): If you prefer calmer seas and warmer weather for enjoying the beaches, exploring the town, and participating in water activities (surfing smaller waves, stand-up paddleboarding, etc.), spring and autumn offer pleasant conditions.

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Pack comfortable shoes for walking as well. If you plan on surfing, you’ll need a wetsuit and surfboard.

Besides surfing and swimming, you can go hiking, biking, fishing, diving, and more. Nazaré also offers various cultural events throughout the year.

Nazaré is not an expensive destination, but not as inexpensive as other parts of Portugal. You can find budget-friendly options for accommodation and food, but there are also luxurious options for those seeking an upscale vacation.

Yes, Nazaré is a safe destination. The crime rate is low, and the village generally maintains a peaceful atmosphere.

The amount of time you need in Nazaré depends on your interests and travel style:

Short visit (1 day): If you’re short on time, a day trip from Lisbon is doable. You can explore the Nazaré lighthouse and sanctuary, witness the power of the waves from the viewpoint, and enjoy fresh seafood.

Focused exploration (2-3 days): With 2-3 days, you can delve deeper into Nazaré’s charm. Take a surfing lesson (on smaller waves outside the winter season), explore the Sítio district with its traditional houses, visit the Nazaré Museum, and enjoy boat tours for a different perspective of the coastline.

Relaxing beach getaway (4+ days): If you’re seeking a more relaxed break, 4 or more days allow you to truly unwind. Soak up the sun on the beaches, try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, indulge in delicious meals, and explore nearby towns like Alcobaça or Óbidos.

Here’s a breakdown based on interests:

Big wave enthusiasts (winter): You could spend a dedicated 2-3 days focusing on witnessing the giant waves, potentially attending big wave surfing competitions, and visiting the Nazaré Canyon by boat (weather permitting).

Surfers (outside winter): A week would allow for ample time to catch waves, perfect your technique, and explore the surrounding area.

Sightseers and beach lovers: 2-3 days would be sufficient for exploring the town, relaxing on the beaches, and enjoying day trips to nearby locations.
Ultimately, the best timeframe depends on your individual preferences and how much you want to pack into your trip.

Nazaré is a town on a relatively small scale, so getting around is manageable. Here are your options:

• Walking: This is a great way to explore the town center, beaches, and harbor area. Nazaré is quite pedestrian-friendly, and most central sights are within walking distance.
• Funicular: Nazaré boasts a funicular railway, the Ascensor da Nazaré, which connects the beachfront area (Praia da Nazaré) with the Sítio district located on the cliffside. This scenic ride offers stunning views of the coastline and is a fun experience in itself.
• Bus: Local buses provide connections within Nazaré and to nearby towns and villages. This is a budget-friendly option for exploring the surrounding area.
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Nazaré and can be convenient for reaching specific locations or getting back to your accommodation, especially if you have luggage.
• Rental Car: While not essential for getting around Nazaré itself, a rental car provides more flexibility if you plan on exploring the surrounding region. You can visit nearby towns like Alcobaça, Óbidos, or Peniche, or venture further afield to discover more of Portugal. However, keep in mind parking in the town center can be challenging, especially during peak season.

Considerations:

• Time of Year: During peak tourist season (summer & winter for big wave watching), expect higher prices for taxis and car rentals.
• Accessibility: If you have mobility limitations, the funicular might be the most convenient option for navigating between the beach and Sítio district.
• Itinerary: Decide if you plan on staying primarily in Nazaré or venturing out to explore the region. This will influence your transportation needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the most suitable way to get around Nazaré and have an enjoyable exploration of the town.

No, you don’t necessarily need a car in Nazaré, Portugal. Here’s a breakdown of why and when a car might or might not be helpful:

When a Car Isn’t Necessary:

• Exploring Nazaré: Nazaré itself is a walkable town. The town center, beaches, and harbor area are easily explored on foot. Plus, the Ascensor da Nazaré (funicular railway) provides a scenic connection between the beachfront and the Sítio district.
• Public Transportation: Local buses offer connections within Nazaré and to nearby towns, providing a budget-friendly option for venturing out.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available and convenient for reaching specific locations or getting back to your accommodation, especially if you have luggage.

When a Car Can Be Helpful:

• Exploring the Region: If you plan on venturing beyond Nazaré to discover nearby towns like Alcobaça, Óbidos, Peniche, or other parts of Portugal, a rental car provides flexibility and independence.

Luggage or Limited Mobility: A car can be convenient if you have a lot of luggage or have mobility limitations that make walking or using public transportation challenging.

Things to Consider Before Renting a Car:

• Parking: Parking in Nazaré’s town center can be challenging, especially during peak season (summer and winter for big wave watching).
• Cost: Car rentals and gas prices can add to your overall trip budget. Consider these costs against the convenience and flexibility a car offers.

Driving Conditions: Familiarize yourself with Portugal’s traffic regulations and driving conditions beforehand.

Alternatives to a Rental Car:

• Day Tours: Organized day tours from Lisbon or other nearby locations can be a good option if you want to explore the surrounding region without the hassle of driving and parking.
• Ride-sharing Apps: While not as widely used as taxis, ride-sharing apps like Uber might be available in Nazaré and could offer a more affordable alternative for occasional trips.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to rent a car depends on your individual needs and travel style. If your focus is solely on Nazaré itself, you can manage perfectly without one. But if you plan on exploring the surrounding areas or have specific limitations, then a car can be a valuable asset.

No, Nazaré is not in the Algarve. The Algarve is a region in southern Portugal known for its warm weather and beautiful beaches. Nazaré, on the other hand, is located in central Portugal, north of Lisbon.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

• Location: Algarve – Southern Portugal / Nazaré – Central Portugal
• Climate: Algarve – Warmer climate / Nazaré – Milder climate with cooler water temperatures
• Waves: Algarve – Generally calmer waves / Nazaré – Famous for giant waves (during winter)
• Tourism: Algarve – Popular tourist destination / Nazaré – Growing tourist destination with a focus on surfing and water sports

Nazaré is relatively close to Lisbon, Portugal. The distance can be measured in two ways:

Kilometers: Nazaré is approximately 98 kilometers (61 miles) away from Lisbon.

Driving Distance: By car, the driving distance between Nazaré and Lisbon is around 123 kilometers (77 miles).

This distance makes Nazaré a convenient day trip option from Lisbon, or a stopping point on a road trip along Portugal’s western coast.

The bus fare from Lisbon to Nazaré can vary depending on the company you choose and how far in advance you book your ticket.

However, you can expect to pay anywhere from €4.49 (around $4.99) to €8 (around $8.90). Here are some popular options:

FlixBus: Tickets start at €12

Rede Expressos: Tickets start at €12 (around $12.79)

Here are some tips for finding cheap bus tickets from Lisbon to Nazaré:

• Book your tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season (summer months).
• Be flexible with your travel dates and times.
• Consider taking a slower bus with more stops, as these are often cheaper than the express buses.

Look for discounts and deals offered by bus companies.

The cost of a taxi from Lisbon to Nazaré can vary depending on several factors:

• Taxi company: Different taxi companies might have slightly different rates.
• Taxi type: Regular taxis and larger van taxis to accommodate more passengers will have different fares.
• Time of day: Fares might be slightly higher during peak hours (nighttime, weekends).
• Luggage: Additional charges might apply for excess luggage.

Here’s a general estimate:

• Range: Expect the cost to be somewhere in the range of €161.40 to €235.89 (US$178 – $260) for a one-way trip.
• Sources: This range is based on information from private transfer services that often use taxis for airport pickups and drop-offs.

Check prices on our trusted partners KiwiTaxi or Welcome Pickups

Yes, there are buses that travel from Porto to Nazaré. Here are some popular options:

Rede Expressos: This is a major Portuguese bus company with frequent departures throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, with fares starting around €7 (around $7.79).

FlixBus: Another major bus company operating in Portugal. FlixBus also offers frequent departures from Porto to Nazaré, with a travel time similar to Rede Expressos (around 2 hours and 40 minutes). Prices can be as low as €5.99 (around $6.63).

To check up-to-date schedules, compare prices, and book your tickets, you can use a travel platform like Omio.

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Nazaré, Portugal, is a popular tourist destination, and English is widely spoken in the town, especially in areas frequented by tourists, such as restaurants, shops, and surf schools.

Here’s a breakdown of the language situation in Nazaré:

English: While Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, English proficiency is high in Nazaré due to the tourism industry. You’ll likely have no trouble communicating with most people you encounter in tourist areas.

Portuguese: Learning some basic Portuguese phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals, even if they speak English. It demonstrates effort and respect for their culture.

Swimming in Nazaré depends on the specific beach and the current conditions:

Praia da Nazaré (Main Beach):

• Generally Suitable: During the summer months (June-September), the main beach (Praia da Nazaré) offers calmer waters and is generally suitable for swimming. Lifeguards are also present during this season.
• Considerations: The water temperature on this coast can be quite cool, reaching only around 18°C (64°F) even in summer. Additionally, there can still be occasional strong currents or riptides, so be cautious and follow any safety instructions from lifeguards.

Praia do Norte (North Beach):

• Not Recommended for Swimming: Praia do Norte, the beach famous for the giant waves, is extremely dangerous for swimming due to strong currents, riptides, and the unpredictable nature of the waves. Swimming is strictly prohibited here.

Alternative Swimming Options:

• São Martinho do Porto (Nearby Beach): If you’re specifically looking for a beach with calmer waters ideal for swimming, consider visiting São Martinho do Porto, a beautiful beach located about 15 km south of Nazaré.

Safety Tips:

• Always swim at beaches with lifeguard supervision.
• Heed posted warnings and instructions from lifeguards.
• Be aware of currents and riptides.

Don’t swim alone, especially in unfamiliar waters.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and refreshing swim while visiting Nazaré.

Swimming safety in Nazaré depends heavily on the specific beach and current conditions:

Praia da Nazaré (Main Beach):

• Generally Suitable (with caution): During summer (June-September), the main beach (Praia da Nazaré) offers calmer waters and can be suitable for swimming with caution. Lifeguards are also present during this season.

Considerations:

• Water Temperature: The water on this coast is quite cool, reaching only around 18°C (64°F) even in summer. Consider a wetsuit if you plan on extended swims.
• Currents and Riptides: Strong currents and riptides can still occur occasionally. Always be cautious, follow lifeguard instructions, and never swim alone.

Praia do Norte (North Beach):

• Absolutely Not Safe for Swimming: This beach, famous for giant waves, is extremely dangerous for swimming due to:Strong Currents: Powerful currents can pull swimmers out to sea.
• Riptides: Unpredictable riptides can quickly drag swimmers underwater.
• Unpredictable Waves: The massive waves pose a severe risk of drowning. Swimming is strictly prohibited here.

General Safety Tips:

• Always swim at beaches with lifeguard supervision.
• Heed all posted warnings and instructions from lifeguards.
• Be aware of currents and riptides. Learn how to identify them and escape if caught in one.
• Never swim alone, especially in unfamiliar waters.
• Consider your swimming ability: Only swim if you’re comfortable and confident in the conditions.

Alternative Beaches for Swimming:

• São Martinho do Porto (15 km south): This beautiful beach offers calmer waters ideal for swimming and is a great option if that’s your primary focus.

By following these guidelines and choosing the appropriate beach based on current conditions and your swimming ability, you can minimize risks and enjoy a safe and refreshing time in the water while visiting Nazaré.

No, the waves at Nazaré are not always big. Nazaré is famous for its giant waves, but these occur under specific conditions. Here’s a breakdown:

• Big wave season: The big wave season in Nazaré is between October and March (winter season in Portugal), with the peak being around December when stronger storms hit the North Atlantic.
• Conditions for giant waves: The giant waves at Nazaré are created by a unique combination of factors. The Nazaré Canyon, a massive underwater canyon just off the coast, amplifies the power of incoming waves. When these waves coincide with strong winter storms, they can reach enormous heights, sometimes exceeding 80 feet (24 meters).
• Calmer waves: Outside the winter season, the waves at Nazaré are much smaller and more manageable. They are suitable for swimming, surfing (regular surfing, not big wave surfing), and other water activities.

So, if you’re specifically interested in seeing the giant waves, you’ll need to plan your trip for the winter months (October to March) and even then, it depends on the weather conditions. There are resources online that provide forecasts for big waves at Nazaré, so you can check those before your trip.

The biggest waves in Nazaré typically occur during the winter months, specifically from October to March. This is when storms in the North Atlantic generate powerful swells that interact with Nazaré’s unique underwater canyon. This underwater canyon amplifies the wave energy, creating the monstrous waves Nazaré is famous for, sometimes reaching a staggering 30 meters (100 feet) in height.

Here’s a breakdown of wave activity in Nazaré:

Peak Season (October-March): This is prime time for witnessing the awe-inspiring giant waves. If you’re specifically interested in seeing these behemoths, plan your visit during this period.

Shoulder Seasons (Spring & Autumn): While not as dramatic as winter, waves in Nazaré can still be sizeable during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).

Summer (June-August): Summer offers the calmest seas in Nazaré, with smaller waves more suitable for experienced surfers. However, this period wouldn’t be ideal for witnessing the giant waves.

The biggest waves in Nazaré typically occur during the winter months, specifically from October to March. This is when storms in the North Atlantic generate powerful swells that interact with Nazaré’s unique underwater canyon. This underwater canyon amplifies the wave energy, creating the monstrous waves Nazaré is famous for, sometimes reaching a staggering 30 meters (100 feet) in height.

Here’s a breakdown of wave activity in Nazaré:

Peak Season (October-March): This is prime time for witnessing the awe-inspiring giant waves. If you’re specifically interested in seeing these behemoths, plan your visit during this period.

Shoulder Seasons (Spring & Autumn): While not as dramatic as winter, waves in Nazaré can still be sizeable during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).

Summer (June-August): Summer offers the calmest seas in Nazaré, with smaller waves more suitable for experienced surfers. However, this period wouldn’t be ideal for witnessing the giant waves.

The sea temperature in Nazaré, Portugal, varies depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown:

Warmest Months (July-August): The sea water reaches its peak temperature around 19°C to 22°C (66°F to 72°F) during these summer months.

Shoulder Seasons (Spring & Autumn): Temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C (57°F to 64°F) in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).

Sharks in Nazaré:

• Possible but unlikely: While sharks are present in the Atlantic Ocean and can be found in the waters around Nazaré, encounters are extremely rare.
• No threat to humans: The species of sharks that inhabit these waters are not considered a threat to humans. They are typically small and not aggressive.
• Safety measures: Local authorities prioritize beach safety and implement measures to minimize any potential risks.

Therefore, while it’s technically possible to encounter a shark in Nazaré, it’s highly improbable, and there’s no need to be overly concerned about them posing a danger to humans.

The water temperature in Nazaré varies throughout the year, with the coldest months being January to March and the warmest months being August to October.

Average water temperatures by month:

January: 55°F (13°C)
February: 56°F (13°C)
March: 57°F (14°C)
April: 59°F (15°C)
May: 62°F (17°C)
June: 66°F (19°C)
July: 70°F (21°C)
August: 73°F (23°C)
September: 71°F (22°C)
October: 68°F (20°C)
November: 64°F (18°C)
December: 60°F (16°C)

The biggest wave ever recorded at Nazaré (and the world) was ridden by Rodrigo Koxa in 2018, measuring a monstrous 80 feet (24 meters) tall!

Currently, Rodrigo Koxa holds the record for the biggest wave ever surfed, achieved at Nazaré.

No, the biggest recorded wave at Nazaré (and anywhere) is 80 feet (24 meters). While some accounts mention 100-foot waves, these haven’t been officially verified.

Only the most experienced big wave surfers with specialized equipment and support teams attempt to surf Nazaré due to the extreme dangers involved.

No, Nazaré is not a good place for beginner surfers. Here’s why:

Giant waves: Nazaré is famous for its massive waves, reaching up to 80 feet (24 meters) during the winter season. These waves are incredibly dangerous and require highly skilled and experienced big wave surfers with specialized equipment and support teams.

Strong currents: The powerful waves at Nazaré are accompanied by strong currents that can be challenging and dangerous for beginners.

Limited beginner-friendly surf spots: The main beach with the giant waves, Praia do Norte, is not suitable for beginners. Nazaré does have Praia da Nazaré, a beach with calmer waves, but even these might be too strong for true beginners with no surfing experience.
Here are some alternatives for beginner surfers in Portugal:

Peniche: Located north of Lisbon, Peniche offers a variety of beaches with waves suitable for all skill levels, including beginner-friendly spots with gentle waves and good surf schools.

Ericeira: Situated north of Lisbon, Ericeira is a surfer’s paradise with several beaches offering a mix of waves for beginners, intermediates, and experienced surfers. Surf schools and camps are plentiful in Ericeira.

Algarve: The southern region of Portugal, the Algarve, boasts beautiful beaches with calmer waves ideal for beginners seeking a relaxed learning experience. Surf schools and camps can be easily found in the Algarve.

Overall, while Nazaré offers a thrilling spectacle for experienced big wave surfers, it’s not recommended for beginners. Consider these alternative locations in Portugal if you’re looking to learn to surf for the first time.

Paddling into the giant waves at Nazaré is extremely dangerous and not attempted. Surfers use jet skis for towing due to the immense wave size and speed.

Tragically, there have been surfer fatalities at Nazaré. Safety is paramount for anyone attempting to surf these waves. (See also “How do you survive the biggest wave?”)

In 2013, professional big wave surfer Carlos Burle passed away after falling while attempting to ride a wave at Nazaré.

Surfers at Nazaré can reach speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) due to the power and size of the waves.

When not surfing, experienced big wave surfers will likely be found at Praia do Norte, the beach with the giant waves. There are also surf camps and schools in Nazaré for those interested in learning to surf or improving their skills on smaller waves.

Giant waves at Nazaré typically occur during the big wave season, between October and March, when strong winter storms coincide with the right underwater conditions. However, even outside this season, Nazaré offers beautiful beaches with smaller waves.

The biggest waves tend to happen during the winter months (October to March) due to stronger storms.

Garrett McNamara is a big wave surfer who put Nazaré on the map by pioneering big wave surfing there. However, many other skilled surfers challenge these waves.

Professional big wave surfers at Nazaré wear specialized equipment like life jackets, helmets, and wetsuits designed for cold water. They also rely on jet ski support teams for safety and quick rescue if needed. Always prioritize safety!

Surfing giant waves like Nazaré is incredibly dangerous and requires a high level of skill, experience, and specialized equipment. Here’s what can happen to surfers in big waves:

• Wipeouts and Hold Downs: Falling off the wave (a wipeout) is inevitable. In massive waves, surfers can be held underwater for extended periods by the force of the wave crashing down. This is why breath-holding ability and staying calm are crucial.
• Injuries: The power and size of the waves can cause serious injuries, even with protective gear. Broken bones, lacerations, and concussions are all possibilities.
• Equipment Failure: Equipment malfunction can be disastrous in big waves. Leash failure could separate the surfer from their board, and board damage can make it difficult to control or surface.
• Exhaustion: Battling large waves is physically demanding. Surfers can become exhausted quickly, making it harder to swim or stay calm in a wipeout situation.

Here are some strategies big wave surfers use to avoid getting crushed:

Reading the Wave: Experienced surfers carefully evaluate the wave before attempting to ride it. They consider factors like size, shape, and potential dangers.

Jet Ski Tow-In: Surfers don’t paddle into giant waves at Nazaré. Instead, they use jet skis for towing, allowing them to position themselves perfectly for the wave and reach high speeds to “catch” it.

Wave Positioning: Surfers aim to ride the wave on the face, the part that peels forward. Avoiding the crashing whitewater section at the top minimizes the risk of getting crushed.

Quick Takeoff and Maneuvering: Once on the wave, surfers need to react quickly and make precise maneuvers to maintain balance and avoid the crashing sections of the wave.

Safety Gear: Surfers wear helmets, life jackets, and thick wetsuits for protection and warmth in the cold water.

Support Team: A team on a jet ski stays close by for assistance and immediate rescue if needed.

Falling off a giant wave (a wipeout) is a common occurrence. Here’s what surfers do when they fall:

Hold Your Breath: Surfers prioritize holding their breath for extended periods to avoid drowning while being held underwater by the wave’s force.

Stay Calm: Panicking underwater can lead to making bad decisions and increase the risk of drowning. Experienced surfers stay calm and focus on surfacing.

Surface and Assess: The goal is to get to the surface as quickly as possible and assess the situation. Look for your board and any potential dangers.

Swim or Paddle Back: If possible, surfers will swim or paddle back to safety or towards their support jet ski.

Remember, big wave surfing is an extreme sport, and even with these precautions, accidents can happen.

While breath-holding ability is crucial for big wave surfers at Nazaré, there’s not a single, definitive answer to how long they need to hold their breath. Here’s why:

Varied Situations: The amount of time a surfer needs to hold their breath depends on the specific situation. Factors like the size and power of the wave, the surfer’s position when they fall, and currents can all affect how long they’re underwater.

Focus on Training: Big wave surfers train extensively to improve their breath-holding ability. They can hold their breath for extended periods, often exceeding 2 minutes in competition settings. However, real-world situations can be stressful, and holding your breath for that long underwater during a wipeout might not be achievable.

Safety First: The priority for surfers who fall is not necessarily pushing the absolute limit of their breath-holding. Their main goal is to stay calm, surface as quickly as possible, and avoid drowning.

Here are some additional points to consider:

Strong Currents: Powerful currents can pull surfers underwater and make it harder to surface quickly.

Exhaustion: The physical exertion of battling large waves can lead to exhaustion, making it harder to hold your breath for extended periods.

Overall, big wave surfers at Nazaré need to be highly trained and comfortable holding their breath for a significant amount of time (likely over a minute) to handle potential underwater situations. However, staying calm and prioritizing surfacing quickly are even more important for safety.