Overview
Viana do Castelo serves up right-hand waves over the sandbars of beautiful Cabedelo beach, reached by ferry from the town itself. Sitting close to a rivermouth, the spot can be a bit inconsistent, but Viana town is a tourist highlight in its own right.
When It Works
Swell from south through west-southwest to northwest (S-WSW-NW) will get it going, with northwest (NW) the best match — a decent northwest swell is when the jetty can produce some hollow, sheltered waves. The beach works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft of swell, and on smaller days the southern end of the beach is the place to look.
Wind and Tide
Northeast (NE) wind blows offshore here. Surf it on low or mid tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
The wave best suits intermediate surfers, and it draws a crowd — expect plenty of company in the lineup when it's on.
Access
Cabedelo is well set up, with a car park offering free parking, showers, a lifeguard, and camping, plus a surf school and a surf shop on hand.
