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Praia da Ponta Ruiva is a surf spot located in Portugal, known for its scenic beauty and surfable waves. It has a reputation for being a bit tricky to get to, thanks to bumpy roads that can be tough on your vehicle. However, once you arrive, you’ll find a picturesque beach that attracts surfers, including beginners at surf schools. The vibe can get a bit crowded, especially when the waves are good, so expect to share the space with fellow surfers.
The surf here can be quite varied. On smaller days, the left-hand point offers a fun, mellow wall, making it suitable for fish or midlength boards. But as the swell increases, the waves transform into powerful, fast-moving walls, stretching over 30 meters. The main beach also has its peaks, with a solid right that can be quite hollow and fast, especially when the conditions are right. Ponta Ruiva can handle swell sizes from about 0.6 meters (2 ft) to 2.4 meters (8 ft), with optimal swells coming from the NW, W, or SW. The waves tend to break over a mix of sand and rocky reef, providing diverse surfing experiences depending on the tide and swell size.
When it comes to the best time to surf, you'll want to hit this spot from September to May for the most consistent waves. Tides play a significant role here, as it works well across all tides, but particularly favors low to mid tides. The preferred wind directions are from the E or E/NE, and be prepared for some strong rips when the swell picks up. This spot caters to all abilities – from beginners to experienced surfers – so there's something for everyone here, whether you're on a shortboard, funboard, or longboard.