Question 1

Can beginners surf in Nazaré?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The main Praia da Nazaré is a long, wide beach with gentle, rolling waves well-suited to learning. Several surf schools operate here for beginners and intermediates. Praia do Norte — the famous big-wave spot across the headland — is strictly for experienced big-wave surfers and should not be attempted by beginners under any circumstances. As long as you stick to the main beach with a school, Nazaré is a fun and friendly place to learn.

Question 2

When do the giant waves occur at Praia do Norte?

Accepted Answer

The biggest swells at Praia do Norte typically arrive between October and March, when North Atlantic storms send enormous ground swells toward the coast. The underwater Nazaré Canyon amplifies these swells dramatically, sometimes producing waves over 20–30 metres high. The most iconic sessions tend to happen during winter storms — but conditions can change rapidly, so there's no fixed schedule. Following the forecasts and webcams (available on Windguru and Magic Seaweed) is the best way to time a visit.

Question 3

How far is Nazaré from Lisbon?

Accepted Answer

Nazaré is approximately 120 km north of Lisbon, roughly 1 hour 30 minutes by car via the A8 motorway. Rede Expressos runs several direct buses daily from Lisbon's Sete Rios terminal, taking about 1 hour 45 minutes (€11–€15). The nearest train station is Valado dos Frades, 6 km from Nazaré, served from Lisbon Santa Apolónia via Caldas da Rainha.

Question 4

What is there to do in Nazaré besides surfing?

Accepted Answer

Nazaré is one of Portugal's most distinctive towns. The Sítio neighbourhood, reached by a historic funicular, offers panoramic views over the entire beach and the Praia do Norte headland. The local culture is vivid — traditional fisherwomen still wear colourful embroidered costumes. The fish market and seafood restaurants serve some of the freshest grilled fish in the country. Óbidos, a medieval walled village, is just 20 km south and makes an excellent half-day trip.

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