Travel Plan
Giant waves

Home Portugal Nazaré Giant waves

ATTRACTION GUIDE · NAZARÉ

Giant waves

The wild north beach of Nazaré, home of the biggest surfable waves on earth, where crowds gather on the cliffs to watch surfers towed into monster swells.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
2 hours
Entry
Free
Best time
Winter swells
Area
Praia do Norte

Huge winter swells.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Praia do Norte, 2450 Nazaré

  • On foot: From the lighthouse area.
  • Car: Parking above the beach.
  • Season: Big waves mostly in winter.

The story of Praia do Norte

Big-wave surfing here became famous after 2011, when surfers began towing in with jet skis.

The beach is dangerous for swimming.

Best time to visit

Best season

October to March.

Best time of day

When surf forecasts show big swell.

Summer

Calmer but still rough.

Tips before you go

  • Check surf forecasts.
  • Do not swim here.
  • Watch from the cliffs, not the sand.

Best hotels near Praia do Norte

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hotels near Nazaré Beach

Sea views.

See prices

Hotels in Sítio Nazaré

Clifftop.

See prices

Hotels in Nazaré

Beachfront.

See prices
All hotels near Praia do Norte

What's around Praia do Norte

  • Nazaré LighthouseAbove.
  • Nazaré town10 minutes by car.
  • Óbidos40 minutes.

Questions travellers ask

Can I swim?

No, it is dangerous.

Is it free?

Yes.

How tall are the waves?

Sometimes over 20 m.

More in Nazaré

Nazaré Lighthouse

Nazaré Lighthouse

Read the guide
Back to the Nazaré guide
Travel Plan · Giant waves Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us