Overview
Praia da Cordama is an isolated beachbreak tucked below impressive cliffs on a huge stretch of exposed coastline in Portugal. Shifting sandbanks, sand-covered reefs and rocky outcrops sculpt a series of peaks breaking left and right over sand, serving up long, powerful walling waves on its day. It's a remote spot, so never surf here alone.
When It Works
The beach draws swell from southwest to north (SW-N), with northwest (NW) swell the best match. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft and is at its best on smaller, cleaner days — it can quickly get too big, and paddling out becomes hideous once it's over shoulder high, with powerful waves and currents to deal with. Autumn and winter are the seasons to aim for, and September through February is the prime window; after March there's still plenty of swell around, but the winds turn less favourable. Small, glassy summer swells can also line up plenty of fun peaks, though northerly winds will quickly destroy them.
Wind and Tide
This exposed stretch blows out easily, so look for offshore wind from the east (E); southeast can also keep it clean. The banks work from low through mid tide, with a rising tide generally the better call and mid tide the pick — though some peaks occasionally keep working through more of the tide.
Local Tips
Expect a fairly quiet lineup with an atmosphere that can feel reserved, and even when one peak gets busy in summer, the crowd spreads out across endless peaks up and down the beach. The spot suits beginners and handles just about any craft — shortboard, funboard, longboard, fish or bodyboard. Do respect the hazards: powerful waves, rips, strong currents and rocks mean you should never paddle out alone here.
Access
A beachfront car park with free parking sits at the end of the access road, and there's roadside parking as well.
