Coastal village with giant waves attracting surfers worldwide. Historic churches and fortress add cultural depth. Traditional fishing community turned tourist spot.
Nazaré, a coastal town in central Portugal, draws surfers from around the world to its massive waves. You can walk on golden beaches, explore narrow streets in the old town, and watch fishermen bring in their daily catch. The town is split between the beach area and Sítio, perched on a cliff above. In Nazaré, you can savor fresh seafood, take in the view from the clifftop, and witness surfers tackling enormous waves.
Nazaré's Famous Big Waves
At Nazaré's Praia do Norte beach, waves can reach heights of over 30 meters. The Nazaré Canyon, an underwater geological formation, amplifies incoming swells, creating these massive waves. From October to March, you'll see professional surfers attempting to ride these giants. Head to the lighthouse at Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo for a prime viewing spot and visit its small surfing museum.
Beach Life in Nazaré
While big waves dominate Praia do Norte, Nazaré's main beach, Praia da Nazaré, is a long stretch of golden sand where you can sunbathe and swim in summer. Look for the colorful striped tents on the beach, a custom dating back to the early 20th century when they gave bathers privacy. You can stroll along the palm-lined promenade, stopping at cafes, ice cream shops, and souvenir stores.
Fishing Culture
Nazaré maintains its fishing village roots. If you visit early in the morning, you might see fishermen bringing in their catch or mending nets on the beach. Notice the wooden fishing boats, painted in bright colors with eyes on the prow - a charm believed to ward off evil spirits. On sunny days, you'll spot fish drying on racks along the beach, a preservation method used for centuries.
Seafood and Local Specialties
Nazaré's cuisine reflects its fishing heritage. Try caldeirada, a hearty fish stew, or grilled sardines when they're in season. Sample the local specialty "carapau seco" (dried horse mackerel). Many beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood with ocean views. For an adventurous taste, order percebes (goose barnacles), a local delicacy harvested from wave-battered rocks.
Sítio: Nazaré's Upper Town
Take the funicular or climb the steep steps to reach Sítio, Nazaré's upper town 110 meters above sea level. Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, an important pilgrimage site. At the small chapel of Ermida da Memória, learn about the legend of the Virgin Mary saving a nobleman from falling off the cliff on horseback in 1182. From the Miradouro do Suberco, you can see Nazaré and the Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon.
Getting There and When to Visit
You can reach Nazaré from Lisbon, about 120 kilometers south, by driving for approximately 1.5 hours or taking a bus from Lisbon's Sete Rios terminal. The town gets busy in summer with Portuguese and international tourists visiting the beaches. For big wave watching, plan your trip between October and March, but remember that wave conditions can be unpredictable. In spring and fall, you'll encounter milder weather and fewer visitors, making these seasons ideal for exploring the town and surrounding area.
