Nazaré – Praia do Norte
Portugal · Surfing
- Best winds E (offshore)
- Level Pro
- Water Waves
- Best months Oct–Mar (big-wave season)
About this spot
The Nazaré Canyon offshore – one of Europe's largest underwater canyons, over 200 km long and nearly 5,000 m deep – focuses and concentrates the incoming Atlantic swell. Where the canyon and shelf wave systems meet near shore, they stack into the largest documented waves in the world at Praia do Norte. Almost exclusively tow-in and XXL discipline, and since 2011 the epicentre of big-wave tow surfing with jet skis.
When can you see the biggest waves? In the big-wave season October to March, core November to February, when long-period W/NW swell (often 16–20 s) meets a light offshore NE/E wind that grooms the huge faces. The classic viewing point is the platform at the Farol/fort.
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Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, daytime wind is lightest in October (avg 10 kn) and strongest in May (avg 12 kn). The water ranges from about 15 to 18 °C over the year.
| Month | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11 kn | N | 13 °C | 15 °C |
| February | 10 kn | N | 14 °C | 15 °C |
| March | 11 kn | N | 14 °C | 15 °C |
| April | 10 kn | N | 16 °C | 16 °C |
| May | 12 kn | N | 17 °C | 17 °C |
| June | 11 kn | N | 18 °C | 18 °C |
| July | 11 kn | N | 19 °C | 18 °C |
| August | 10 kn | N | 19 °C | 18 °C |
| September | 10 kn | N | 19 °C | 16 °C |
| October | 10 kn | SW | 19 °C | 18 °C |
| November | 10 kn | N | 16 °C | 17 °C |
| December | 10 kn | SE | 14 °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
The viewing platform at the Farol/fort is the classic observation point for the big days. Look for long-period W/NW swell with light offshore NE/E wind – that is when the canyon delivers. This is for watching, not paddling out.
⚠︎ Hazards
Extremely life-threatening – only for professional big-wave surfers with a tow-in team and rescue jet skis. Take care on land at the cliff too: waves can wash over the rocks.
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.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Nazaré – Praia do Norte suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Nazaré – Praia do Norte is a spot for Pro (water: Waves).
Which wind works at Nazaré – Praia do Norte?
Best with wind from E (offshore).
When is the best time for Nazaré – Praia do Norte?
The best months are considered to be Oct–Mar (big-wave season).
How warm is the water at Nazaré – Praia do Norte?
Over the year about 15 °C in March to 18 °C in July (model data).
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