Ericeira
Portugal · Surfing
- Best winds E (offshore)
- Level Intermediate · Pro
- Water Waves
- Best months Sep–Apr
About this spot
Fishing village north of Lisbon and a World Surfing Reserve since October 2011 – the second worldwide and the first in Europe. Along roughly four kilometres of coast one documented reef break follows the next: Ribeira d'Ilhas, Coxos, Pedra Branca, Reef and São Lourenço among them. Ribeira d'Ilhas is the accessible, long right-hand point break with big shoulders that works on NW swell at mid tide and regularly hosts competitions; Coxos is rated one of the best rights in the world, heavy and for experts only.
When is the best time to visit Ericeira? September to April, with the quality peak in October/November at 1.5–3 m swell and consistent offshore east wind. Best swell from WNW, best wind offshore from east/southeast.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, daytime wind is lightest in October (avg 11 kn) and strongest in January (avg 13 kn). The water ranges from about 15 to 18 °C over the year.
| Month | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13 kn | N | 14 °C | 16 °C |
| February | 12 kn | N | 14 °C | 16 °C |
| March | 12 kn | N | 14 °C | 15 °C |
| April | 12 kn | N | 15 °C | 16 °C |
| May | 13 kn | N | 16 °C | 16 °C |
| June | 12 kn | N | 17 °C | 17 °C |
| July | 12 kn | N | 18 °C | 18 °C |
| August | 12 kn | N | 18 °C | 17 °C |
| September | 11 kn | N | 19 °C | 16 °C |
| October | 11 kn | N | 18 °C | 18 °C |
| November | 12 kn | N | 16 °C | 18 °C |
| December | 12 kn | N | 15 °C | 16 °C |
Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
Ribeira d'Ilhas is the friendliest entry for solid surfers and works on NW swell at mid tide. For clean waves wait for offshore E/SE wind. Coxos and Pedra Branca only with real reef experience.
⚠︎ Hazards
Reef breaks with rocks – experienced surfers only. Spots like Coxos are dangerous at low tide and break over shallow reef; mind current and rocks on entry and exit.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ericeira suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Ericeira is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Waves).
Which wind works at Ericeira?
Best with wind from E (offshore).
When is the best time for Ericeira?
The best months are considered to be Sep–Apr.
How warm is the water at Ericeira?
Over the year about 15 °C in March to 18 °C in November (model data).
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