Surf: Nazaré has become a global big-wave phenomenon, thanks to a finger of deep water that points directly at the beach, beckoning some of the largest surfable waves on the planet to smash onto the sands of Praia Norte. Huge, heavy and sometimes hollow beach peaks for the insanely brave. Currents can be strong, and giant clean up sets are guaranteed when it’s on, which isn’t that often as it’s fully wind-exposed. Head north up the beach in small swells or the main town beach offers a sheltered little wedge on big swells. Environment: One of the most challenging stops on the Big-Wave World Tour and many boards, jet skis and bodies get broken here including the near drowning of Maya Gabeira. Gets crowded with tow crews and paddle-ins and the lighthouse headland provides an awesome vantage-point for the crowds who come here to watch the pros take it on when it's big.