Buarcos surf guide
Surf: General: There are a number of distinct waves that break along the headland to the north of Figueira da Foz, peeling along the reef and sand covered rocks. The main three are Tamagueira - a hollow right, Teimoso - a long right point, and Mina - the northern most reef. It needs a medium to big swell from the northwest to wake, but in the right conditions, when sand and swell combine, these waves can join to create one, long, reeling right hand point - referred to in hushed tones as the J-Bay of Portugal. It is certainly one of the longest waves in the country, offering a combination of top to bottom walls and barrel sections.
Tides: All tides
Size: Head high to double overhead plus.
Wind: E, NE
Swell: Big NW
Bottom: Reef and sand covered reef
Paddling: Long paddles and rips mean it can be noodle arms all round.
Spot Rating: A right hand point that on its day can be one of the best waves on the continent, seeing big walls and barrels reel for over 200m.
Access: Ocean front parking at Teimoso.
Crowds: Crowd Factor: This is a huge playing field with long paddles - even on a busy day it can feel strangely uncrowded
Local Vibe: Competitive but respectful.
Environment: Can be poor - still suffers from raw sewage discharge.
Hazards: Powerful waves, rocks, rips.
Season: Needs big swells so best December - February