Surf Forecast  Espinho

Espinho surfspot characteristics

More about Espinho surfspot

The best known surf spot in north Portugal breaks off a jetty and runs through to the inside as a fast, walled up right that finally dies as a close out over shallow rocks. Plenty of tubing moments with swells of up to 3m+ (10ft).

General: An average beachbreak with some fun peaks for all abilities when small, that gets powerful as the swell fills in. The premiere spot is a right-hander breaking off the rocky groyne in front of the casino - refered to as Casino Right - a long quality wave that wakes up in a decent NW swell. It can hold up to double overhead and becomes a challenging, occasionally hollow prospect - one of the best waves in the north of the country. Expect a competitive line-up. Tides: Best low to mid tide. Size: Waist high to double overhead. Wind: E Swell: NW, W, SW Bottom: Sand Paddling: Heavy paddle once the swell gets over shoulder high. Spot Rating: Long, powerful walling right-hander breaking off the southern side of jetty that can hold a decent size and draws a decent crowd.

Beginners stick to main beach breaks - there are a few waves to choose from. Casino Right best for experienced surfers only.

Street parking is tricky here. There is a car park close to the break by the Tourist Information Office.

This consistent swell catcher works year round but best September - November

Crowd Factor: Popular spot with locals and surfers from nearby Porto. Local Vibe: Very competitive on the right, borderline localised - experienced surfers here so observe etiquette. The rest of beach OK.

The busiest spot in the area with the localism attitudes that you would expect. Very polluted.

Has a well-earned reputation for poor water quality from nearby factories.

Groyne, crowd, swimmers in summer.