Leca de Palmeira / Porto / Portugal

With strong waves breaking onto vast expanses of gorgeous white sand, Leca De Palmeira is a popular venue for experienced surfers of all types, especially towards its northern part where it merges with Aterro beach. The season is mainly from March to September although off season is possible.

The beach is large with plenty of room for everyone apart from the summer months when there may well be time restrictions in place. There are rocks to the north and a big harbor mole to the south which is why this spot is not suited to beginners. The beach lays just to the north of Porto and is well signposted.

As with most of this coastline the winds come predominantly from the north (Nortada) and are fairly consistent throughout most of the year. The summer sometimes sees a south wind which is much lighter. The water quality is clean with good, medium sized waves for most of the time. You need to have your wits about you and keep any eye out for the rocks to the north as well as the mole to the south. The water temperature ranges from 12 degrees in the winter to 19 degrees in the summer with air temperatures ranging from 10 degrees in the winter to 30 degrees n the summer. You can get by with just a pair of shorts for the summer months but come winter and you will need to suit up accordingly.

There is plenty of parking here and a few places to grab a snack or a drink. For supplies you may need to head into Porto. This destination is geared up for youngsters and there are plenty of bars and discos staying open until the early hours.

Watch out for rocks and for the large harbor mole. Also check for time restrictions during the summer months and watch out for swimmers in the water.