Arrifana surf guide

Arrifana is a crescent-shaped bay located in a scenic area lined with cliffs. It's a well-known spot for both locals and visiting surfers, making it a popular destination for surf schools as well. The beach offers some shelter from the bigger swells on this exposed coastline, which is a bonus when the conditions aren't favorable. Usually, you’ll find a mix of surfers here, ranging from beginners taking lessons to experienced locals tackling the less-than-stellar left and right beachbreaks.

For the serious surfers, the real draw is the right-hand point break on the northern end of the beach. This wave comes alive when it’s overhead (around 2m) and can hold up to around 3m (10ft). It’s known for providing long, fast rides, but make sure to be cautious of the rocks in the lineup and on the inside. The best swell direction is from the Northwest, handling sizes from 2m to 3m, and it works best at low to mid tide. The preferred wind direction is from the East, making for some fun conditions. Although the beach can get quite crowded, the point tends to have fewer surfers, so you might find some space to enjoy a ride. Just keep in mind, this spot is for experts only due to its heavy nature and the need to navigate around uneven reefs and boulders.

The environment at Arrifana is decent, but you need to watch for rips and some hazards like large rocks in the water, especially at the point. The best time to visit for quality waves is during the winter months, particularly from December to February when the swells are at their biggest. For paddling, be prepared for longer distances, particularly to the point, and expect it to be heavy if you get caught inside. Easy parking is available nearby, making access straightforward for surfers coming to tackle this spot.