Praia do Beliche
Located between Sagres and the cape, accessible by stairs. Works well with north wind and moderate swell.
Sagres & West Coast
Two coasts, one location: You can find a wave no matter the wind.
The western tip of the Algarve offers both south and west coasts within reach. If it is too stormy on one side, usually the other works.
Sagres has been a fixed point on the European surf map for decades. This is due to its geography: the peninsula separates the sheltered south coast from the open west coast, both reachable within fifteen minutes.
The Spots
Where to go from here.
Praia do Tonel
Right by Sagres, facing west, dependable and accordingly popular.
Praia do Zavial
South coast, just a few minutes from the house. With strong west swell, one of the best right-handers in the area.
Praia do Amado
Near Carrapateira, about half an hour north. The classic school beach with plenty of space.
Praia do Castelejo
Beyond Vila do Bispo, wide and wild. More suited to advanced surfers.
Praia da Mareta
The sheltered bay in Sagres, gentle waves and where many courses start.
For Beginners
There are plenty of schools, but patience is still needed.
In Sagres and Carrapateira you will find several surf schools offering courses and equipment and taking you to the suitable beach depending on conditions. For first contact with the Atlantic, this is the most sensible approach.
The Atlantic here is not a beginner’s pool: currents, rocks and water temperatures around 16 to 20 degrees are part of the experience. A wetsuit is recommended all year round.
Season
When which wave is running.
From October to April the strong swell comes from the North Atlantic. This period is for experienced surfers and also when the beaches are quiet.
In summer it becomes gentler and warmer, ideal for courses and families where only some members surf. The rest can relax by the pool, which is an advantage of having your own house with a pool.
Surf trip with your own house
Space for boards, a washing machine for wetsuits and a pool to warm up afterwards.