Written by Tom Hooker

If you live and breathe for the waves, then you know that Portugal holds a special place in the hearts of surfers worldwide. The blend of pristine beaches, perfect swells, insane food culture, cold brews, and an infectious surf culture makes it a true slice of paradise on Earth—especially if your version of paradise includes a perfect beach break! In simple terms, the rustic coastline of Portugal has some of the most exhilarating surf on the planet. So, we’re paying homage to one of the world’s top surf meccas by handpicking five stops you have to make on your hunt for the best waves. But like any pursuit worth its salt, finding the ultimate waves requires a bit of planning and perhaps a few insider tips from a local or two. We’re taking you on a trip to explore the charming coastal towns, sleepy villages, and surf capitals that dot the Portuguese shoreline. Let’s paddle out!

We kick off our “Surf Stops in Portugal” series with an amazing hidden gem by the name of Figueira da Foz. Already a hotspot for vacationing locals in summertime, Figueira da Foz is a beautiful city perched right in the center of the Iberian Peninsula’s Atlantic coast. But many argue that the true magic begins in the wintertime, during Portugal’s famed surf season. And this is what makes this city so special: it’s one of the best places to catch waves, relax, and enjoy some of Europe’s finest food. Let’s take a look at what makes Figueira da Foz a truly special surf stop. 

How Good Are the Waves in Figueira?

Let’s start with the best stuff: just how good are the waves in Figueira da Foz? In short, the waves are very good on almost all of the beaches and coves in the Figueira da Foz area. You can consistently find big waves that form gorgeous barrels right at the city’s beaches like Buarcos or hop onto closeby spots like Murtinheira. Whichever choice you make, rest assured that you won’t find crowds in the water—a rare luxury considering Portugal’s reputation among surfers. 

Surf locations in Figueira:

• Buarcos
• Murtinheira
• Cabedelo
• Molhe Norte

A Note for Beginner Surfers

While it’s true that Figueira da Foz has good enough waves to occasionally host big tournaments, beginner surfers should not be discouraged! This location is an amazing place to take your first steps, so make sure to include this stop if you plan to take a trip to Portugal to hone your skills. 

Other Things to Do in Figueira da Foz

Besides huge sand beaches with fantastic waves, Figueira is an absolute gem in terms of activities and vibe. Some of the best things to do include:

The Vibe and Nightlife

Figueira is a vibrant town full of great restaurants, bars, and plazas that cater to visitors from all over the world. If you come at the right time, you can even catch one of the many summer festivals celebrated there! The nightlife is undoubtedly one of the city’s best attributes too. You can choose from a wide range of venues to spend a night out, including a luxury casino close to the city’s main train station. 

Santa Catarina Fortress and Other Landmarks

Figueira has historic landmarks that have been in place for thousands of years, like the Santa Catarina Fortress which has been watching over Figueira da Foz and the neighboring Buarcos since the 1400s. 

Other great landmarks you should visit include:

• Sotto Maior Palace
• Santos Rocha Municipal Museum
• Torre do Relógio
• Boa Viagem Florestal Park

Engenheiro Silva Market

There is no better way to witness the day to day life of a local Portuguese than by visiting the Engenheiro Silva Market. A traditional Portuguese market, you will experience a sensory rollercoaster when entering Engenheiro Silva.  The smells, sights, and sounds are an experience on their own, but make sure to also include your taste buds by sampling some of the many local offerings. It’s a good idea to come with a few euros to spend—while a great experience, the market was not designed to be a tourist attraction; so any support for local business people will go a long way!

Close By Attractions

In addition to authentic local attractions, Figueira is a great place to visit some of Portugal’s most iconic destinations, like:

• Coimbra
• Aveiro
• São Martinho do Porto
• Pombal

How to Plan the Best Trip to Figueira da Foz

Figueira da Foz is close to Porto, but getting there is only the start. Having a detailed plan can go a long way when visiting a new location, and Figueira is no exception. The good news is that ALLMYNE helps you plan your whole trip with the help of a local guide. In short, you can get a whole itinerary created by someone who knows the area before you even hit the ground—whether you fly straight into Porto or take the scenic route through Lisbon. And if you want to have a local who speaks the language helping you navigate every stop, you can always have your guide join you and take you to Figueira’s best locations. 

Ready to Catch Figueira’s Best Waves?

Figueira da Foz is a known local attraction but a hidden gem for international travelers looking for great surf stops. With a vibrant nightlife, several beaches to choose from, and a huge collection of awesome attractions just a short drive away, Figueira is a great place to up your game or begin your journey to becoming a seasoned surfer. The best part is that you can plan your own trip however you like. Whether you want to bring your board, rent a van, or all of the above, you can always count on a friendly Portuguese hand and a solid itinerary to help you along the way with ALLMYNE.