Praia Grande surf guide

Praia Grande is a popular and spacious sandy beach located not far from Lisbon, making it a go-to destination for many surfers and tourists. During the summer, the beach gets crowded, with lots of people occupying the sand and parking lots. However, in the off-season, the waves tend to wake up, which means consistent swell and fewer crowds. You’ll find that low to mid tide is the sweet spot for surfing here, while high tide can lead to heavier sections with shore dump. If you’re looking for a quieter ride, check out Praia Pequena, a smaller spot to the north that often has less traffic.

This beach holds up really well with swells from the north to the southwest, making it a versatile location. The waves can range from waist to head high (about 0.6 to 2.4 meters). Expect beach breaks that can create both long, rideable walls and fast, heavy wedges. You’ll generally see different wave directions, offering both lefts and rights. Powerful swells roll in from deeper waters, so be prepared for some serious duck-diving, especially when the swell picks up. The best days to surf here are when there’s an east or southeast wind, which helps clean up the conditions.

Access to Praia Grande is pretty straightforward, with lots of parking available, but it gets hectic on weekends and during summer months. Keep in mind that the lineup can fill up due to the draw of the Lisbon crowd, but there’s enough space to spread out. The local vibe is mostly chill, even though there’s a bit of hustle in the water. Hazards include heavy shorebreak and rips, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. This spot caters to all surfing abilities—beginners can find their way, while more experienced surfers will enjoy the range of waves. The best surf seasons are in autumn and spring, and it’s suitable for various board types including shortboards, funboards, and bodyboards.