Overview
Porto Covo is a small, pretty tourist town with a range of options for the passing surfer. North of the town centre, a couple of little cove beaches serve up fun sand-bottom rides on a moderate swell, while to the south at Ilha do Pessegueiro, long, slow lefts and rights peel over a deep-water reef between the island and the mainland. Between the coves and the reef, the waves here break over a mix of sand and uneven reef.
When It Works
Porto Covo draws swell from southwest through north, with northwest (NW) swell the best match. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, a wide working range that keeps the area rideable from moderate swells up to solid days.
Wind and Tide
Look for east (E) offshore wind. The spot can work through the whole tide, though a rising tide is generally the better call.
Local Tips
Porto Covo is a good match for beginners, and the surf school in town makes it easy to get started or book a lesson.
Access
Parking is straightforward, with a car park offering free parking plus roadside spots. Facilities include showers, a lifeguard, a surf school and a surf shop, and easy camping makes it simple to stick around for a few days.
