Praia da Salema is a long, sheltered stretch of sand located in a nice resort village. It offers a relaxed vibe and is generally uncrowded, which is great if you're looking to enjoy the surf without the hassle of heavy crowds. There are parking areas close to the beach, making access pretty easy whether you're driving or staying nearby.
The surf here can be fun, especially for beginners and intermediates. It handles swell sizes from about 1 meter (3 feet) to 2.4 meters (8 feet) and works best at low to mid tide. You can catch both lefts and rights, with the waves generally breaking over sand. The spot picks up swell from the Southeast to the West, with optimal conditions when the wind comes from the Northwest to North. The peaks can be average but they offer an enjoyable experience, making it a good choice for learning or improving your skills.
It’s worth noting that you should be cautious of rips when the surf gets big. The best time to visit is during the winter months, specifically from December to February, when conditions tend to be more favorable. So grab your shortboard, funboard, or even a longboard and head out to enjoy a session!