Nazaré Beach
Praia da Nazaré has become internationally famous for the giant waves that form in the Nazaré Canyon. Considered a neighborhood planted by the sea, Praia da Nazaré is located in one of the most traditional Portuguese fishing villages. On the west coast of Portugal, in the Centro region, this is the most popular beach. It is here that you can still find some women dressed in the traditional costume of the seven skirts, who take care of the fish drying in the sun.
In Nazaré you will also have the famous Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré to visit, at the top of the mountain. There is also the Suberco viewpoint, which has an incredible view of the North beach and its huge waves. Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo and Farol da Nazaré are also good spots to watch the waves and the beach.
The beach that gives the city its name is the most urbanized and has many cafes and restaurants, inns and hotels. There are stones on the sidewalk, in the shape of an arch. In summer the beach has the traditional cloth tents with stripes of strong colors. Ideal for swimming, surfing and bodyboarding as the sea is often rough with strong waves.
The first constructions on Nazaré beach, made of small wooden shacks, date back to the 18th century, since until that time there were many pirate attacks, which is why the population of the seaside was not recommended. Furthermore, at that time, the constructions were dependent on authorization from the Alcobaça monastery.
To see how beautiful the beach of Nazaré is, it is worth going up to Sítio da Nazaré where, through the Nazaré funicular, which is over 100 years old, you can see the center of the village from its highest point.
Nazaré beach is almost 2km long and has a vast sand. It starts at the port of Nazaré and goes to the cliff where the viewpoint is. The water is always cold, even in summer (not exceeding 18ºC). The sea can be calm at times, other times it is rough, and it is necessary to be careful with the stronger currents. At Nazaré beach there are water activities such as stand up paddle, kayaks and jet-skis.
Praia do Norte is famous for the giant waves of Nazaré. It is frequented almost exclusively by professional surfers and windsurfers and kitesurfers. Even when the waves are not giant, they are big and very strong.
In addition to being a dangerous beach, Praia do Norte has icy waters, so it is not usually sought after for bathing in the sea. It is best suited for walks and contemplative walks.
There is also Praia do Sul, south of Praia da Nazaré. As it is conditioned and paid at the port entrance, it is usually only frequented by fishermen and surfers, with waves of 3 meters. Salgado beach is almost 6km long and has a good stretch of sand. It is usually deserted and has only one paved access, with a parking lot and a restaurant. Suitable for fishing, surfing, hiking and other sports. There is also the Miradouro do Salgado, which offers a beautiful view of the beach.