Guide to Surf in Sagres and the Southwest Algarve: Swells and Coastlines
- Visit Sagres
- Dec 3
- 6 min read
Updated: Dec 4
One of Europe’s top surf spots and the number one surfing destination in the Algarve, Sagres is a must-visit for surfers. This small fishing village, with around 2,000 inhabitants, sits on the southwestern tip of the Algarve (the most south-westerly point of mainland Europe!).
Today, life in the village revolves around surfing, mostly due to opposing coastlines - the west coast receives north and north-west swells and the south coast receives south-east swells, with bigger western swells in the winter.
Surf in Sagres – A Paradise of Two Coasts
What makes Sagres such a unique surf location is its coastal geography - two coastlines meet, allowing swells from multiple directions and meaning there’s almost always a wave to surf.
With beaches facing both west and south-east, Sagres offers conditions suitable for every skill level.
West Coast: The west coast picks up larger swells from the Atlantic Ocean and is where you’ll find the most consistent surf. Perfect during the summer, but also sees smaller waves during a few days in the low season (autumn - spring).
South Coast: When the waves get too big on the west coast, the south coast offers shelter from the wind and ocean swells. Although it’s less consistent during the summer, it provides great beginner spots. But don’t be fooled, it can also provide larger waves during the wintertime.
Popular Beaches and Wave Quality
When choosing where to surf, whether you’re a beginner or intermediate/advanced surfer, it all comes down to understanding what kind of waves you’re looking for. Beach orientation, swell direction, wave size and shape, seabed type (sand, reef or rock), as well as wind strength and direction all play a part. However, it also heavily depends on the season, as beginner-friendly spots can turn into advanced-surfers-only breaks, if bigger swells arrive.
Sagres has two beaches, with another just a 15-minute walk away:
Praia do Tonel: Facing west, Tonel beach receives both west and northwest swells, though the Cape St. Vincent knocks some power out of the waves before they hit the beach. Tonel is a sandy beach break with scattered rocks and offers multiple peaks and reliable conditions. Well-protected from northerly winds by steep cliffs, it’s a welcoming beach for beginners on smaller days but it also offers good and powerful waves for more experienced surfers when the swell picks up.
Praia do Beliche: Just three kilometers from the centre of town, Beliche beach is tucked between cliffs that shield it from wind and stronger swells. Its sheltered bay makes it a favourite among beginners looking for small waves. But in the big-swell season, Beliche has one of the region’s only true wedges, resulting in a spectacular show ruled by local bodyboarders and a must-see for anyone in the area.
Praia da Mareta: Right in the heart of Sagres, this broad sandy bay is the most sheltered beach in town. Protected from the heavy west swells, Mareta beach becomes a winter sanctuary with mellow, surfable waves perfect for learning and longboarding. It’s also the only Sagres beach that responds really well to southeast swell – meaning that on certain summer days, Mareta unexpectedly lights up, offering long, easy rides ideal for complete beginners.
Summer vs. Winter in Sagres
In Sagres, during summer, Tonel is the most consistent surf spot, especially if you're chasing good waves in the village, walking distance. For bigger conditions, the exposed west-coast beaches (listed below) are your best bet. Beliche and Mareta become the ideal refuge when swells get too big – with Mareta often surprising with smaller, cleaner waves.
Praia da Cordoama
A long stretch of sand completely exposed to west and northwest swells. Sandbanks shift frequently throughout the year, forming new peaks and fun zones across the beach. On small-swell days, Cordoama beach is one of the best places to learn or polish your technique: knee-high, waist-high or shoulder-high waves roll gently across the bay. Some rocky areas exist, mostly on the southern side, best visited at low tide so you can spot them clearly.
Praia do Castelejo
South of Cordoama, Castelejo beach shares the same full exposure but benefits from a slight reduction in swell due to its more recessed position and the rocky point to the right. With multiple peaks scattered along the beach, it offers plenty of opportunities for surfers of all levels, depending on the day (if rocks are a concern, the rule is simple: check the beach at low tide).
Praia do Zavial
One of the jewels of the south coast. Zavial beach is the go-to refuge when big west swells make Tonel too heavy for beginners. Most days, the beach has three consistent peaks and the right-hander is legendary. The eastern side of the bay has a rockier seabed, delivering powerful, clean lines that attract advanced surfers when the swell wraps in just right. On those days, the Zavial right is a local favourite and one of the best waves in the region.
Water Temperature & Gear
Algarve waters are fresh year-round, ranging from 14°C to 20°C. A 4/3mm wetsuit is recommended, especially in winter, and a good one makes all the difference. Make sure your board wax matches the water temperature, surf schools normally handle this for rentals.
Aljezur and the Wild West Coast
Just 20 minutes from Vila do Bispo lies Carrapateira, a quiet village perched on the edge of the west coast. Two beaches exist, each with their own personality:
Praia do Amado
Amado beach is a favourite among surf schools, as the waves tend to break farther out, creating long, generous lines of whitewater, ideal for anyone learning the basics of standing up and controlling the board. Further out, smaller clean waves offer the perfect stepping stone for beginners transitioning to intermediates.
Praia da Bordeira
Thanks to shifting sandbanks (and a rocky section on the left), multiple peaks form along the length of Bordeira beach, creating a variety of wave sizes and plenty of space for surfers of all levels.
Praia da Arrifana
Drive ten minutes north to Aljezur and you reach Arrifana beach, one of the region’s most iconic bays. Protected by steep cliffs, the cove shelters surfers from the northwest winds, and the depth of the bay softens swells from the same direction. Under typical conditions, Arrifana receives smaller, more manageable waves, making it a reliable escape for anyone surfing the west coast.
But when the swell swings north and builds, Arrifana becomes very powerful; turning it into a playground for the locals and advanced surfers. On these days, the best option for most visiting surfers is simply to soak up the show, or head to Lagos in search of more appropriate conditions.
Surfing in the Low Season – From October to May
Although Sagres is seen as a summer destination, the surf actually peaks in winter. The autumn and winter months (October to February) are the best time to surf here, with more consistent and powerful waves.
The low season, from October to May, is considered the prime surf season, attracting surfers from around the world thanks to its steady swells and excellent conditions.
Low Season Features (Autumn, Winter and Spring)
Wave Quality and Consistency: The Atlantic sends larger swells during this period. Surf on the west coast becomes heavier with strong winter swells. Winter in particular brings the biggest and most reliable waves, ideal for advanced surfers.
Weather: Surprisingly mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures usually between 15°C and 20°C and plenty of sunshine.
Crowds: One of the biggest advantages of visiting Sagres in winter or the off-season is the absence of summer crowds. The vibe is quieter and more relaxed, meaning less competition in the water.
Affordability: Travelling in winter is more budget-friendly, with many accommodations offering lower rates perfect for a cheaper surf holiday.
Beaches to Surf in Autumn, Winter and Spring
Conditions depend heavily on the season, swell size, wind direction and tide.
Season | Recommended Beaches | Features and Notes |
Autumn (September/October) | Arrifana, Amado, Castelejo, Tonel | The best season to surf Tonel, with clean, consistent west swells. The West Coast provides excellent conditions during large south swells (2m+). If you’re an advanced surfer, this is the ideal time. |
Winter (December–February) | Arrifana, Beliche, Mareta, Praia da Luz, Porto de Mós, Meia Praia | Winter is the best season to surf the south coast, although Beliche and Mareta are also popular winter spots. If the swell picks up, might be better to look further out. |
Spring (April/May) | Arrifana, Amado, Castelejo, Cordoama, Tonel, Zavial | Similar to autumn, this season features pleasant weather, fewer crowds and medium waves. Always paying attention to the swell size and these options will make the drive worth. |
