Portugal, Portugal
Home of Praia do Norte, where the Nazare Canyon focuses Atlantic swells into the largest waves ever surfed.
| Wave height | 1.2 ft (1-2 ft) |
| Swell period | 7 sec |
| Swell direction | 298° |
| Wind | NNE cross/onshore 3.5 kt |
| Tide | mid / optimal |
| Surf score | 17 / 100 |
Nazare's Praia do Norte sits at the head of a deep underwater canyon that bends and amplifies North Atlantic swells, producing the giant peaks that have set successive world records for the largest wave ever surfed. On the right day, the ideal swell window runs from W–NW (270–310°); groundswell with periods around 15–22s gives it the most shape; the wave is comfortably workable up to roughly 80 ft on the face. Best winds are E or SE, with NE or S still rideable. It is relatively forgiving across the tide and can be ridden through most of the cycle. The sweet spot in our data sits between roughly 0.3 m and 1.5 m of tide height. Consistency is moderate - good days come in pulses tied to incoming swells. Expect cool water best surfed in a full wetsuit. Crowds stay manageable outside peak swells. Logistically, it is roughly 1.5 hours from LIS airport; logistics are demanding and best handled with local guidance. This is an expert-only wave; it is heavy, hollow, and unforgiving, and the consequences of a bad wipeout are real. Board-wise, locals lean on big-wave gun + tow.
The best window is typically Oct–Mar, when swells from W–NW (270–310°) are most consistent.
Nazare is rideable from a few feet up to legitimate hundred-foot face heights on the right combination of long-period swell and offshore wind.
No - this is an expert-only wave and is not appropriate for learners under any conditions.