Furadouro / Aveiro / Portugal

Just 5 kms from the town of Ovar in Northern Portugal lies the small resort of Furadoro which has a great reputation for good surfing conditions as well as sailors making full use of the calmer waters of the nearby estuary. This spot is suited to surfers of all types with some experience, due to the presence of wave breakers and groynes. The season is from March to September although off season is possible.

The beach is long and sandy and backed by a stretch of pine fringed dunes. There is plenty of room to launch and land a kite and although the beach is relatively unspoilt it can get quite busy in the summer months, when time restrictions may apply.

Furadouro is an exposed beach break that is known for its pretty consistent surf and can work any time of the year. It works best, however, in offshore winds from the east. Most of the surf here comes from groundswells with the ideal swell direction coming from the west. The sea is at its best at mid tide when the waves break from left to right. You do need to watch out for the rocks in the water though. The water quality is good, with the beach having a European Blue Flag award and the water's edge is supervised regularly by lifeguards during the season. Equipment is available for hire from The Animal Surf Shop on the Rua Goncalo Velho which also acts as a surf school. Behind the pine forest there is an estuary which is popular with both sailors and windsurfers.

There is plenty here with easy parking and camping. There are also good facilities for the disabled and plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants. For supplies you may need to take a short drive into Ovar.

Take care of the rocks and wave breakers in the water. Also watch out for crowds in the summer months and look out for swimmers in the water.