The rustic beach town of Nazare completely took us by surprise during our northern Portugal road trip. This small seaside enclave was made famous in 2017 for the big wave competition featuring the largest wave ever surfed. Yet as we would find out, it has so much more to offer! Whether you’re chasing the next wave or simply hitting the beach, Nazare has something for everyone. We’ll take you through our trip on the Nazare Funicular, visit to Praia do Norte, and where to eat some of the freshest seafood in Portugal!

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Nazare Beach Town

When we visited Nazare Portugal in late June the sea was raging and a mist of fog filled the air. Even though we weren’t going to have the typical beach day that draws so many to Nazare, it was actually a nice break from the big city of Lisbon. Set below the large rock wall that overlooks the town is the heart of Nazare.

Here you’ll find restaurants that line the water, large handball and volleyball courts, and small roads filled with white washed houses. With so many walking streets to explore it’s best to ditch your car as soon as possible and take on Nazare by foot. First off, you should know Nazare beach is massive! A thick stretch of sand runs from the cliffs down the coast and far into the distance. When we walked out onto the beach the waves were booming and crashing to the shore.

Lifeguards patrolled Nazare Beach hard this day, pulling back anyone who got even to close to the ocean. This is quite the contrast to the summer months when the sea is calmer and the beach becomes packed like sardines. Either way, don’t let the weather deter you! If it’s not the perfect beach day there’s still so much to see and do in Nazare Portugal. Also, the clouds brought on one of the most beautiful sunsets we’ve ever seen!

Riding the Nazare Funicular

One of the best things to do in town is jump on the Nazare Funicular and head high above! Here you’ll have sweeping views of the ocean, village, and surrounding countryside. The ride up is quick and only cost €1.50, running every 15 minutes or so. If you’re looking to get some exercise there’s also a giant staircase that snakes its way up the hillside… Be warned though it’s very steep!

Once you’re at the top of the Nazare Funicular you can stroll along the long walkway for spectacular views of town. Honestly, no photos will do it justice! If you only have time to do one thing in Nazare Portugal make sure you check this out. After soaking in the views, don’t leave without continuing down to the lighthouse.

Praia do Norte and the Biggest Waves in the World

Now that you’ve conquered the Nazare Funicular it’s time to see what this town really has become known for! If you walk down the backside of the viewpoint you’ll see a massive lighthouse on the water. Once you pass the statue of a giant standing deer holding a surfboard (yes we are serious!) you’ll know you’re going the right way.

The only thing to note is that the humongous waves only appear at certain times of year, most typically in November. Now if you haven’t heard of the Nazare big wave competition get ready to have your mind blown!

5 Facts About Praia do Norte

The Nazare big waves are created by an underwater canyon that amplifies them into monsters. The deep gorge off the coast is over 140 miles long and 16,000 feet deep!

The biggest wave surfed IN THE WORLD was at Nazare by Rodrigo Koxa in 2017. It was a whopping 80 feet tall, and broke the Guinness World Record previously held by Garrett McNamara (also at Nazare).

The first people to ride the Nazare big waves were actually bodyborders, not surfers. These days they have been ridden by everyone from kitesurfers, to windsurfers, and everyone under the sun!

Nazare joined the World Surf League in 2016, and now plays host to big wave competitions featuring the best surfers in the world. The surfers are towed into the massive waves by jet skis to get momentum and better position.

The Nazare Lighthouse was erected in 1903, but the fort it’s inside of is much older! The Fort of Sao Miguel was built in 1577 and now houses a museum dedicated to surfing and the science behind the waves.

Feasting on Fresh Seafood in Nazare Portugal

Although surfing has increased its popularity over the last few years, it’s important to remember Nazare is still a small fishing community at heart. Consequently, there’s no better way to get in touch with the local community than tasting its delicious seafood.

After you’re done with a long day at the Nazare Beach and Praia do Norte it’s time to dig in! If you walk along the waterfront you’ll find plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes serving heaps of mouthwatering shrimps and clams. If you need a recommendation for where to eat, we had an amazing meal at Rosa dos Ventos!

11 Portuguese Dishes & Drinks We Tried and Loved

Nazare is the type of place you can see in one afternoon, but also easily spend a week hitting the beaches. With a mix of surfer vibes, great food, and traditional Portuguese architecture, it’s easy to see why more people are visiting every year.

Have any questions about our visit to Praia do Norte, or your own Nazare tips? Please comment below!

Safe Travels,

Brigitte & Jake

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Where To Stay In Nazare Portugal

Fun Vacation (Mid Range) – Hotel Magic – This newly renovated upscale hotel is the perfect mix of luxury and fun beach charm. Right in the center of all the action, you’ll be steps away from the beaches with a large breakfast to enjoy each morning.

Travel Couple (Longterm Travel) – Casa do Mar – Nazaré – Set up on the hillside in Nazare’s old town, this amazing hotel is one of the best deals you’ll find. Each room has a cute patio and you’ll be welcomed with a warm embrace from the owner.

Hostel Life (Budget) – Lab Hostel Nazare – Bed & Waves – Located in the heart of lower town, you’ll have everything you need just steps from the Lab Hostel! It’s complete with dorm beds, private rooms, and a common area to meet other travelers. Continental breakfast also served daily.

For more places to stay in Nazare Beach you can explore the latest prices here!

*By booking through our website we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This allows us continue our travels and keep providing great content to our readers! You can also bookmark this link for all your future stays*