Nazaré, Portugal: when to visit, beaches and the biggest waves in the world

Nazaré is a traditional fishing town on Portugal's Silver Coast, about 120 km north of Lisbon. For centuries it was known for its fishermen, colourful boats and women in seven layered skirts. Today it's world-famous for something else: the biggest waves ever surfed.

In winter, giant swells at Praia do Norte can exceed 20 metres, drawing the world's best big-wave surfers and thousands of spectators. In summer, the main beach turns into one of the busiest seaside resorts in central Portugal.

This guide covers when to visit Nazaré, how to see the big waves, the best beaches, things to do, and how to get there.

Nazaré at a Glance

Why Are the Waves in Nazaré So Big?

The secret is underwater. The Nazaré Canyon – one of the largest submarine canyons in Europe, around 200 km long and up to 5 km deep – funnels Atlantic swells straight towards Praia do Norte.

When a winter storm swell travels through the deep canyon, it moves faster than the swell over the shallower seabed beside it. The two meet near the shore and combine, while a current running along the coast pushes back against the waves. The result: waves that rise suddenly to enormous heights just off the beach.

World records

• In 2011, Hawaiian surfer Garrett McNamara brought global attention to Nazaré by surfing a wave of around 24 metres.
• The Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed – 26.21 metres (86 ft) – was set at Praia do Norte in October 2020 by German surfer Sebastian Steudtner.

When to Visit Nazaré

To see the giant waves: October–March

The big wave season runs roughly from October to March, with the best chance of huge swells between November and February, when North Atlantic storms are strongest.

Big waves don't happen every day – they depend on swell size, direction, wind and tide. Plan with some flexibility:

• Check surf forecasts (look for long-period swells of 4–5 m+ from the northwest).
• Follow local wave-alert pages and the World Surf League for competition windows.
• Mid to high tide is often the best time to watch.
• If you can, plan two or three days in the area to increase your chances.

The WSL Nazaré Big Wave Challenge (tow-surfing event) is held during the winter season, but only on days with suitable conditions, announced shortly in advance.

For beach holidays: June–September

Summer brings warm weather (25–30°C), calmer seas on the main beach, and lots of Portuguese families. August is the busiest and most expensive month.

For a quieter trip: April–May and September–October

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, lower prices. September is particularly good – still warm, and the town celebrates its biggest festival.

Where to Watch the Big Waves

Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo (the lighthouse)

The red-roofed lighthouse fort on the headland in Sítio is the best viewpoint, directly above the break. Inside, a small surf museum displays boards used by big-wave legends and explains how the waves form.

Praia do Norte cliffs and beach

The cliffs and paths around the fort give dramatic views. You can walk down to Praia do Norte, but stay well back from the water – waves can surge unexpectedly far up the sand.

Safety: Praia do Norte is extremely dangerous. Never swim there, keep away from the shoreline on big days, and follow police and lifeguard instructions. On major swell days, roads and parking near the fort can be closed – arrive early.

Best Beaches in Nazaré

Praia da Nazaré

The main town beach – a wide crescent of golden sand sheltered by the headland. In summer, it's lined with colourful beach tents. It's generally the safest beach in town for swimming in summer, but always check the lifeguard flags.

Praia do Norte

Wild, exposed and beautiful, north of the headland. Famous for big waves – not for swimming.

Praia de Salgado

A long, quieter beach south of Nazaré, backed by dunes. Good for walks.

Praia da Gralha

A small beach between Nazaré and São Martinho do Porto.

São Martinho do Porto (nearby)

About 15 minutes south, this shell-shaped bay has calm, shallow water – perfect for families.

Things to Do in Nazaré

1. Take the funicular (ascensor) to Sítio – the 1889 funicular connects the beach town with the clifftop.
2. Miradouro do Suberco – a viewpoint in Sítio with the classic view over the beach and town.
3. Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré – a baroque church with blue-and-white tiles, linked to the legend of Dom Fuas Roupinho.
4. Watch fish drying on the beach – fishermen's wives still dry fish (peixe seco) on wooden racks on the sand.
5. See women in traditional dress – some still wear the sete saias (seven skirts).
6. Visit the surf museum at the lighthouse.
7. Eat fresh seafood – grilled sardines, caldeirada (fish stew), arroz de marisco.
8. Surf lessons – outside giant-wave days, there are good conditions for learners and intermediates.
9. Day trips to Óbidos, Alcobaça Monastery, Batalha Monastery, Fátima and São Martinho do Porto.

How to Get to Nazaré

From Lisbon

• By car: about 1h30 via the A8 motorway (tolls apply — see how tolls work).
• By bus: direct Rede Expressos and Rodoviária do Oeste buses from Sete Rios or Campo Grande stations, about 1h45–2h.
• By train: not recommended – the nearest station (Valado dos Frades) is a few km away with infrequent services.

From Porto

• By car: about 2h via the A1 and A8 or A17.
• By bus: Rede Expressos, usually around 3h.

Getting around

Nazaré is walkable, with the funicular linking the beach and Sítio. Parking is hard in summer and on big wave days.

Where to Stay in Nazaré

• Praia (beach town): best for restaurants, the seafront and nightlife.
• Sítio: quieter, close to the lighthouse – ideal for big-wave chasers.
• São Martinho do Porto: calmer alternative, especially for families.

Book well ahead in August and during big-wave events.

Food in Nazaré

• Caldeirada de peixe – fish stew
• Sardinhas assadas – grilled sardines
• Carapau seco – dried horse mackerel
• Arroz de marisco – seafood rice
• Percebes (barnacles) and other shellfish
• Tarte de Nazaré and local sweets

Final Thoughts

Nazaré is two places in one: a lively summer beach town and, in winter, the stage for the most spectacular waves on Earth. If you want to see the giant waves, come between November and February, watch the forecasts, and head to the lighthouse early. In summer, enjoy the beach, the seafood and the views from Sítio – and stay well away from the water at Praia do Norte.