Overview
Praia do Sul has a sheltered corner at Furnas that can be the only place working during a big north or northwest swell. The standout wave is a fickle right-hand point off the headland that only wakes up at serious size, producing long, rolling, double-overhead walls in deep water.
In smaller or medium north swells, there are a few peaks inside the bay, but they are more mediocre than high quality. The bottom is a mix of sand, reef, and rocks.
When It Works
This spot is usable from 1.2 m / 4 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. It breaks on west-southwest to northwest swells, with the most noted days coming from north and northwest swell.
Winter is the main season, especially December to February. Paddling is easy when it is small, but it gets much heavier in big swells.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind direction is east. A workable wind window runs from east-northeast to southeast.
All tides can work, and a rising tide is better.
Local Tips
Praia do Sul can suit a wide range of surfers and boards, from beginners on smaller inside peaks to expert surfers on the bigger point days. Shortboards, funboards, longboards, fish, bodyboards, and guns can all have a place here depending on the conditions.
The beach is usually fairly quiet, especially when other spots are working, but the point gets a crowd when it is on. The lineup atmosphere is somewhat reserved.
Watch for heavy conditions when it is big, heavy hold-downs, and rocks on the inside.
Access
There is a car park at the southern end of the beach.
