Guincho
Portugal · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Surfing
- Best winds N (Nortada)
- Level Intermediate · Pro
- Water Waves
- Best months Jun–Sep
About this spot
Praia do Guincho between Cascais and Cabo da Roca is the windiest beach in the Lisbon area and lies within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. In summer the Nortada, a strong northerly wind, creates conditions on many afternoons that experienced windsurfers and kiters love: wind often above 20 knots, Atlantic waves and an impressive backdrop of dunes and cliffs.
When is the best time to visit Guincho? From June to September the Nortada arrives most reliably, usually from midday. In winter swell rather than wind dominates and the beach belongs to the surfers. Because of gusts, currents and shorebreak, Guincho is difficult for beginners – they are better off at more sheltered spots around Lisbon or with a school.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 72 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the north. The most reliable period runs from May to August. The least wind is in December (10 %). The water ranges from about 15 to 18 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
12 %
| 10 kn | N | 13 °C | 16 °C |
| February |
12 %
| 10 kn | N | 14 °C | 15 °C |
| March |
18 %
| 11 kn | N | 14 °C | 15 °C |
| April |
35 %
| 11 kn | N | 16 °C | 16 °C |
| May |
55 %
| 12 kn | N | 17 °C | 16 °C |
| June |
60 %
| 13 kn | N | 18 °C | 17 °C |
| July |
72 %
| 13 kn | N | 20 °C | 17 °C |
| August |
69 %
| 13 kn | N | 20 °C | 17 °C |
| September |
41 %
| 10 kn | N | 19 °C | 16 °C |
| October |
17 %
| 9 kn | N | 19 °C | 18 °C |
| November |
15 %
| 10 kn | N | 16 °C | 18 °C |
| December |
10 %
| 10 kn | N | 14 °C | 16 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from N (usable according to the spot info) are counted. 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
Cold upwelling keeps the water fresh even in high summer (often 15–17 °C) – bring a wetsuit even when it is 30 °C on land. At the northern end the cliffs make the gusts stronger, which is why many launch further south along the beach. Car parks on the coast road fill up early on windy summer days.
⚠︎ Hazards
Strong currents and a hard shorebreak, especially when there is swell. The Nortada is gusty and can pick up quickly – do not choose your gear too big. The beach is dangerous for weak swimmers and beginners; lifeguards are only on duty in season.
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 Guincho suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Guincho is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Waves).
Which wind works at Guincho?
Best with wind from N (Nortada). In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the north.
When is the best time for Guincho?
The best months are considered to be Jun–Sep. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (72 % of days).
How warm is the water at Guincho?
Over the year about 15 °C in March to 18 °C in November (model data).
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