The Algarve is the perfect year round Surfing destination with an endless supply of waves and fantastic weather. The West coast picks up the predominant northwesterly Swells and is famous for its pristine untouched coastline and perfect peaks.
See for yourself on our next surf camp out there! Algarve Surf Camp 29th May – 5th June 2014
During the Autumn and Spring months you’re more likely to get the much larger straight westerly swells rolling through lighting up the South Coast which is home to some hidden gems and punchy reef breaks.
It is these two very different unique coastlines that make this a special Surfing location. With one west facing and one south facing coastline, there will always be a wave somewhere!
West Coast Surf Spots
Arrifana
Location – 10 min drive from Aljezur
Wave Type – Beach and Right Point Break
Good Swell Direction – North West
There is in fact 2 types of waves at Arrifana. When the banks are good it can produce a very fun and punchy beach break on the middle and southerly part of the beach. Which is great for beginners, however this beach is famous for it’s long right point break. It can work up to 15ft and the take off isn’t for the fair hearted as if you get it wrong it’s right in front of a huge rock. Having said that if you survive the take off then it powers you down for a 100m or so into a reforming beach break.
Carrapeteira
Location – Right next to the village of Carrapeteira
Wave Type – Beach Break
Good Swell Direction – Northwest, North, West
This is a long exposed beach with two main surfing areas. The southern end of the beach has a sort-of point break off the rocks but very dependent on the sand bars. The second area is about 200m up the beach with A-frame peaks on good days breaking on the sand bars.
Cordoama “Cordies”
Location – 10 mins from Vila Do Bispo
Wave Type – Beach Break
Good Swell Direction – North West, West
This beach is home to some really fun peaks that run down the beach. On its day it can produce world-class hollow waves and also some great running waves if you’re after a fun session with friends. Beware this beach can get very busy and the car park fills up quick so a dawny cold be on the cards for this spot.
Ponta Ruiva
Location – Very difficult to find if you’ve never been there. 4×4 advised, ask a local grab a map!
Wave Type – Left Point Brea
Good Swell Direction – South East, East, North East
This is worth the trek if the swell direction is right as is can produce a world class left running all the way through to the beach break. The point can pretty weak but fun on a longboard around the 3-4ft range but anything above 5ft and its fun long running left.
East Coast Surf Spots
Tonel
Location – Right on the South Westerly Point of Portugal. Right by the Fort.
Wave Type – Beach Break
Good Swell Change – South, South East, East
Tonel can produce hollow waves but can be fickle with the wind. It has both right and lefts but can get very busy in the summer months with body boarders. Don’t let this put you off though as if people have all flocked to the west coast on a big swell this will be producing some smaller and cleaner little beauties!
Luz
Location – Located right on the front in the tourist town of Luz
Wave Type – Right and Left Beach Break
Good Swell Direction – North, NorthWest
This beach break can produce really peaks right on the center of the Beach along with a great point break that works a few times throughout the winter. You will also get the predominant wind blowing from the North in the winter and the southerly swells pushing through.
Zavial
Location – 15mins from Sagres
Wave Type – Point Break/Beach Break
Good Swell Direction – West, South West, South
Due to its relatively protected position, Zavial needs sizeable swell to really make this spot come alive. At low tide a wave breaks alongside the cliffs on the far west side of the beach. With steep take offs, on a good swell this is more aimed at the intermediate/advanced Surfer especially in the winter. During the summer strong thermal winds usually blow offshore in the evening providing fun rippable waves.
For a chance to check out a few of these epic beaches with world class waves some of the latest Trips on offer;
Algarve Surf Camp 29th May – 5th June 2014
If you have any questions please dont hesiate to get in touch with one of our Surf Experts today [email protected] or give us a call on 0208 7888 668.
See you out there!