Carrapateira is a surf spot located at the southern end of Praia da Bordeira. With a clifftop car park, it offers a nice vantage point over the waves. The beach features a long stretch of sand, making it an appealing spot for surfers looking for varying conditions. The area is known for its relaxed vibe, which is perfect for enjoying some time in the water.
The surf at Carrapateira can be quite fun, especially with swells coming from the NW, W, and SW. When the conditions are right, you can catch waves from waist high (about 1 meter) to overhead (around 3 meters). It offers both left-hand and right-hand breaks, with the left point delivering some good walling waves in front of the rocky headland. The rivermouth can also produce hollow, punchy rights when the tide is filling in. For the best experience, aim for low to mid tide, but keep in mind that the spot can be heavy and rippy, particularly around the rivermouth.
Access to the spot is pretty straightforward with a car park right on the cliff. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, just walk a bit north from the busier southern end of the beach to find some empty peaks. This spot is great for a range of skill levels, from beginners to experts, and you can ride different board types including shortboards, fish, funboards, longboards, and even SUPs. The best time to surf here is from September to May, though expect some wind around, as it can be a bit frustrating at times.