How to Surf in Minho, Portugal

Minho is the northernmost section of Portugal and extends to the Spanish border. Not quite as good as the central section of Portugal, it’s also not as crowded. Stay north of Oporto to find better waves and avoid the water pollution.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Surfboard
• Wetsuit
• Car
• Map
• Portuguese phrasebook

1. Catch a few at Vila do Conde. Located on the center-city beach, the lefthanded wave breaks off a rock and gets pretty hollow. It can get crowded, but mostly because of weekend warriors from Oporto.

2. Enjoy the clean water and open beaches of Aguçadoura. Though it doesn’t handle strong wind very well, many different sandbars create many different waves at all tides. Completely uncrowded and beautiful water.

3. Get barreled at Afife. It’s called the Supertubos of the north, but with none of the crowd. There are strong riptides to contend with, but worth it for all of the rides you’ll find.

4. Sit on your board in Portugal and watch the waves in Spain at Modelo do Minho. A few reefs and one large sandbar create a number of different peaks, and the river that divides Spain and Portugal can create monster swells when the conditions are right.

Tips & Warnings

• Many other spots break in this area. However, a car is essential to find them.
• Surfing can be dangerous or evenly deadly. Make sure to familiarize yourself with your equipment before surfing.
• When exploring new spots, respect the locals, and make sure that you are constantly aware of your surroundings. Conditions can change very quickly.

Resources

• Weather and Wave Forecasts