Algarve surf forecast

Surfing in Algarve

The Algarve is two coasts in one, which is what makes it such a dependable surf area. The west coast, the Costa Vicentina from Aljezur down to Cape St Vincent, faces the open Atlantic and takes north-west to south-west swell head on. Arrifana and Praia do Amado are the best known beaches here, and Tonel at Sagres sits on the west-facing side of the Sagres headland. These are mainly beach breaks with some rock, and they are consistent through most of the year, with easterly winds blowing offshore.

The south coast runs east from Sagres towards Lagos and is sheltered from the worst of the Atlantic by the cape. It needs a large north-west swell to wrap in, or a swell from the south or south-east, so it is less consistent but becomes the go-to option when the west coast is too big or the wind is wrong. Lagos is a popular base on this side, with warmer, calmer conditions in summer.

Because the west coast breaks are only about 30 minutes by car from bases such as Lagos, you can usually find a sheltered or clean beach somewhere. Arrifana and Amado are popular with surf schools and improvers, although both get powerful in bigger winter swell. Tonel is a reliable spot for intermediates, and beginners in summer, and works best at low tide, with some rocks to watch.

October to March is the main season for good swell, while summer brings small, mellow waves suited to learners and much busier beaches in resort towns. Hazards include rips on the open west coast beaches, rocks at low tide and crowds at the best known spots, with some localism at heavier south coast spots such as Zavial in winter.