Buarcos Surf Guide

Surf spot guide

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

Big NW

Wind

E, NE

Surf Height

Head high to double overhead plus.

Tide

All tides

Buarcos Surf Guide

There are a number of distinct waves that break along the headland to the north of Figueira da Foz, peeling along the reef and sand covered rocks. The main three are Tamagueira - a hollow right, Teimoso - a long right point, and Mina - the northern most reef. It needs a medium to big swell from the northwest to wake, but in the right conditions, when sand and swell combine, these waves can join to create one, long, reeling right hand point - referred to in hushed tones as the J-Bay of Portugal. It is certainly one of the longest waves in the country, offering a combination of top to bottom walls and barrel sections.

Ability Level

Intermediate - Advanced

BegIntAdv

Intricate line-up best for experienced surfers.

Local Vibe

Doable

WelcomingIntimidating

Competitive but respectful.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

MellowHeavy

This is a huge playing field with long paddles - even on a busy day it can feel strangely uncrowded

Spot Rating

Perfect

PoorPerfect

A right hand point that on its day can be one of the best waves on the continent, seeing big walls and barrels reel for over 200m.

Shoulder Burn

Exhausting

LightExhausting

Long paddles and rips mean it can be noodle arms all round.

Water Quality

Fair

CleanDirty

Can be poor - still suffers from raw sewage discharge.

Hazards

Powerful waves, rocks, rips.

Bring Your

Shortboard, Fish, Longboard, Bodyboard

Access

Ocean front parking at Teimoso.

Bottom

Reef and sand covered reef

Best Season

Needs big swells so best December - February

Do you have local knowledge about Buarcos?

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