Praia da Bordeira is a stunning beach located in the Algarve region of Portugal. It's known not only for its beauty but also for its solid surf conditions. The beach is quite spacious, which helps to keep the crowds manageable, making it a nice spot for surfers to enjoy the waves. The surrounding cliffs provide a scenic backdrop, and the atmosphere is laid-back, perfect for a day spent in the water.
The surf here works best with a northwesterly swell, but you can catch waves with swells coming from the southwest and north as well. The beach has a mix of uneven reef and sand, providing both left and right-hand breaks. You can expect good conditions at swell sizes from about 2ft (0.6m) and up. The waves can be fast and hollow, especially near the rivermouth, so it's a great place for surfers with a bit of experience. However, beginners can also find some manageable waves here, particularly at low and mid-tide when the conditions are more forgiving.
While the left side can get crowded, there are enough peaks available that you can usually find a spot to surf without being too close to others. It’s worth noting that the beach can be easily blown out, so checking the wind direction—preferably east—can make a difference in your session. Overall, if you’re in the area and looking for some surf, Praia da Bordeira is worth a visit.