Category: Nature > Beach
District: Leiria > Nazaré > Nazaré > Sítio da Nazaré
Nazaré North Beach is located in the town of Nazaré, within the area known as Sítio da Nazaré. It lies north of the imposing Nazaré Promontory, a geographical landmark rising above the Atlantic. Its position offers a unique perspective of the coast, setting it apart from the more sheltered beach of the village.
This beach is globally recognized for its monumental waves, which attract the attention of water sports enthusiasts from around the world. The formation of these unique waves is due to the presence of the Nazaré Canyon, a submarine gorge of remarkable proportions, considered the largest in Europe. Its head, a short distance from the coast, has the capacity to channel the energy of ocean swells, amplifying them exceptionally.
This phenomenon is most evident in the winter months, when waves can reach heights exceeding fifteen meters, creating an impressive natural spectacle. It is a place where the raw power of the ocean manifests spectacularly, shaping the landscape and the experience of those who visit it.
Nazaré North Beach has become a prominent landmark in the world of big wave surfing, serving as the stage for several world records. In 2017, Brazilian surfer Rodrigo Koxa set a Guinness World Record by surfing a 24.38-meter wave. Later, in 2020, Maya Gabeira, also from Brazil, achieved the record for the highest wave surfed by a woman, with 22.4 meters.
These achievements highlight Nazaré North Beach as one of the most challenging and coveted locations for the most audacious athletes, proving its reputation as one of the most important destinations for extreme wave sports.
Beyond its famous waves, Nazaré North Beach stands out for its rugged and natural environment. It boasts an extensive golden sandy beach, flanked by a well-preserved dune system, where one can observe the original vegetation that withstands the force of wind and sand, including species such as sea rocket, sea thrift, and sea bindweed. These dunes, particularly the primary dune, play a vital role in the conservation of the local ecosystem.
On the promontory that protects the beach, there is a small natural cave, known as Forno d'Orca, which adds an element of mystery to the place. On certain occasions, with a bit of luck, it is possible to spot common dolphins in the waters of Nazaré North Beach, a testament to the region's marine richness.
Due to its unique characteristics, with strong winds and powerful swells, Nazaré North Beach is ideal for sports such as bodyboarding, surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. It is a sought-after location for those who wish to test their limits and experience the adrenaline of the Atlantic waves. However, it is important to note that currents are very strong and sea conditions can be dangerous for swimming or bathing.
In addition to wave sports, the wild environment of the beach also invites other outdoor activities. It is a prime spot for sport fishing, for long walks along the shoreline, or for horseback riding and cycling, allowing for a deeper connection with the surrounding nature.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.6120569,-9.0854056
Coordinates DMS: 39°36'43.4"N 09°05'7.5"W
Weather Nazaré
On-duty Pharmacy Nazaré
