Overview
Zavial is a small, sandy cove on the Algarve's south coast and the most famous wave in the area. The star of the show is the right point on the western edge of the beach, where fast, wedgy and often hollow waves peel along sand and sand-covered reef beneath the cliffs. At low tide the cove opens out into a wider beach, and both lefts and rights break over the sand. Consistency is medium, so it needs the right conditions to switch on, but when it does it ranks among the best waves on the south coast, with slightly warmer water than the west coast as a bonus.
When It Works
Zavial needs a proper push of swell: a moderate southwest or a big west to northwest swell gets the point breaking. It picks up swell from northwest through north to southeast (NW-N-SE), with southwest (SW) the optimal direction, and works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3.5 m / 11 ft. Winter is the season here, with December through February the prime window.
Wind and Tide
Look for a northeast (NE) wind, which blows offshore. Mid and high tide are the times to surf it, with a rising tide generally the better call; mid tide also helps the wave run down the point instead of closing out.
Local Tips
This is an intermediate-level wave, and the rides are fast, heavy and wedgy, so come prepared for some punch. Shortboards, bodyboards and bodysurfing all work here. Expect a busy lineup when it breaks: the atmosphere is friendly, but a committed local crew is on it at the slightest sniff of a wave, so waves can take patience to come by. If it feels too hectic, a drive around the area might turn up quieter options.
Access
There is a car park with free parking just back from the beach, plus roadside parking. The point is not visible from the car park, so walk out onto the rocks to check it before suiting up. Getting out is straightforward, with an easy paddle around to the lineup. Camping and a surf school round out the facilities.
