Overview
Praia Areia Branca is a sandy beachbreak fronting the small summer beach town of the same name, with both lefts and rights on offer. It opens a long run of beaches, broken up by the occasional mediocre reef, that stretches south to Santa Cruz. The whole coastline here is wind exposed and gathers less swell than the north side of the Peniche peninsula, though more than Supertubos.
When It Works
The beach draws swell from southwest through north, with northwest (NW) swell the best match. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, so there is a wide window before conditions get too small or too big.
Wind and Tide
Look for east (E) offshore wind to clean it up. The banks can work through the whole tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Praia Areia Branca suits beginners well, and crowds are not an issue, so there is room to find your own peak.
Access
A car park with free parking sits by the beach, and there is roadside parking as well. Facilities include showers, camping, and a lifeguard.
