Praia do Norte

Edit Spot

About

You will never forget it ! The power of the wave was demonstrated in the 2002 winter when the europeen championship was there. The waves were big that day (3-4 meters) and the bodyboarders got insane with the action. Capdeville busted about 5 barrels that took the public to heaven. World class spot, that's for sure!

Atmosphere:
Once you get in the water (big days) your heart will be pumping out, but after you get the first wave the excitement will take over you. The lip is large so if you're a surfer don't take it easy or your board will look like a glass when a hammer fells in to it. There are few crowd here but when it's very good it gets about 10-20 people. The big swell offers an atmosphere of pure peace and respect for nature!

Additional Info:
This is a very powerful wave and please don't surf it alone when it´s more than 2 meters. In the big days it gets huge and still, perfect. I've seen it breaking 5 meters (15 feet) perfect - but no one is in the water in that days. I advise morning sessions (offshore generally), with the sun behind you. Park your car in front of the beach and keep an eye on your stuff (Thieves).

Location

Access

Once in Nazaré, head to Sítio da Nazaré and then to praia do norte (north beach - everybody knows it).

Walk	Instant access (<5 min)
Public access	Yes
4x4 required	Unknown
Boat required	Unknown

Wave Characteristics

Type	Beach break
Direction	Right and left
Bottom	Sandy
Power	Powerful
Frequency	Very consistent (150+ days/year)
Normal length	Short (<50m)
Good day length	Normal (50 to 150m)

Ideal Conditions

Wind direction	North, SouthEast, East, NorthEast
Swell direction	NorthWest, West, SouthWest
Swell size	3ft-5ft - 16ft and over
Tide	Low and mid tide
Tide movement	Rising and falling tides