Nazaré Big Waves – Forecast, Season Guide & How to Watch a Contest

Nazaré’s Praia do Norte is home to the biggest waves ever surfed — giants between 80 and 100 ft (24–30 m) that have made this small Portuguese fishing town world‑famous. In April 2024, Sebastian Steudtner set a new world record with an incredible 28.57 m (94 ft) wave, confirmed with advanced measurement technology. The Big Wave season runs from October to March, with the best time of witnessing these massive swells from late October to February.

Contest dates for the WSL Nazaré Tow Surfing Challenge are announced only 48 hours in advance, and conditions can change quickly. Below you’ll find everything about the big waves, the WSL event, and an accurate forecast for each winter — updated frequently with fresh alerts during the season so you can maximize your chances of seeing Nazaré at its most dramatic.

The season is officially over for now. I’ll start updating this page again from late October! 

Why Nazaré Has the Biggest Waves in the World

The secret behind Nazaré’s monster waves lies beneath the surface. A deep underwater canyon — 5000 m deep and 230 km long — funnels Atlantic swells directly toward Praia do Norte. This canyon acts like a giant amplifier, transforming powerful winter storms into waves that can reach 100 ft (30 m).

If you visit the lighthouse at Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo, don’t miss the exhibition. It explains the canyon’s structure and shows how this unique geological formation creates the world’s most spectacular “freak waves.”

The Four Key Ingredients for Giant Waves

Several conditions must align before Nazaré produces its famous XXL swells:

• Wave height above 3 m (10 ft)
• Wave period longer than 13 seconds
• Strong North Atlantic storms during autumn and winter
• Incoming tide, which boosts the wave energy even more

When these factors combine, the canyon focuses the swell energy and pushes it upward, creating the towering walls of water Nazaré is known for. Nazare Big Waves Forecast

The Hunt for the 100‑Foot Wave

Back in 2001, Billabong launched the Odyssey Project to find the first 100‑foot wave ever surfed. At that time, Nazaré wasn’t even on the radar — no one imagined that Europe could produce waves of this size.

Today, Nazaré is the leading contender for the first verified 100‑footer. Whoever rides it will earn a place in surfing history.

Where to Stay for the Best View of Nazaré’s Big Waves

The Lighthouse: The Closest You Can Get

The lighthouse (farol) at Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo is the closest and most iconic viewpoint for watching Nazaré’s giant waves. There are no higher cliffs overlooking Praia do Norte, despite what some websites claim. The best views are:

• directly at the lighthouse
• on the cliff‑top road leading to it
• or from the area just below the lighthouse

During contests, this area becomes extremely busy, and the lighthouse charges a small entrance fee (2€). If you want to feel the raw power of Nazaré’s waves, this is the place to be.

People watching the Giant Wave Competition from the lighthouse area

Alternative Viewpoint: The Dunes Behind Praia do Norte

If the lighthouse area is overcrowded, you can move to the dunes behind Praia do Norte. A dirt road leads down to the beach and dunes, offering a slightly elevated view of the break.

⚠️ Important: Be careful during high tide or massive swells — waves can push far up the beach. During contests, a viewing platform is often built in front of the dunes.

Why You Need a Zoom Lens or Binoculars

Many dramatic photos of Nazaré show the lighthouse tiny in front of a massive wave. These images are taken from far away with a strong zoom lens — not from the lighthouse itself.

If you want to capture similar photos or see the surfers clearly, you’ll need:

• binoculars
• a zoom camera
• or a tripod with a telephoto lens

From the lighthouse, you feel the power of the waves — but you won’t see the surfers in detail without magnification.

Where the Action Happens: Praia do Norte

The waves are best seen from Praia do Norte, close to the cliff‑top road and lighthouse. This is where tow‑in teams launch their jet skis and where the world’s best big‑wave surfers wait for the right moment.

Tow‑surfing is essential here — the waves are so fast and powerful that paddling is impossible. Jet skis with 300 hp tow surfers into the waves and rescue them after wipeouts.

Understanding the Forecast: When It Gets Exciting

The exact contest date is announced only 48 hours in advance, so monitoring the forecast is crucial.

A simple rule of thumb:

• 5 m forecast (16 ft) → engaging
• 8 m forecast (26 ft) → exciting
• 10 m+ forecast → potentially spectacular
• Forecast × 3 = possible wave height due to the Nazaré Canyon

A forecasted 8 m swell can turn into a 25 m monster if the canyon amplifies it — which is why Nazaré is so unpredictable and thrilling.

North Beach vs. South Beach

Nazaré is split by a massive rock formation where the lighthouse stands.

• South Beach (Praia da Nazaré) Calm in summer, perfect for swimming, packed with tourists.
• North Beach (Praia do Norte) Wild, powerful, and home to the biggest waves in the world. In winter, surfers must be towed in by jet ski.

How Is Wave Height Measured in Nazaré?

Measuring the height of Nazaré’s giant waves is far more complex than it looks in photos. For years, the official method relied on analysing still images and comparing the surfer’s body height to the wave face. This traditional approach is still used by the WSL and the Big Wave Awards team, but it comes with a margin of error of up to three metres, especially in chaotic conditions.

A new era began in February 2024, when Sebastian Steudtner’s team introduced an advanced drone‑based measurement technique. High‑precision drones track the surfer and the wave simultaneously, allowing accurate calculations within just one day. This technology was used to confirm Sebastian’s new world record of 28.57 m (94 ft) — the fastest and most precise measurement ever achieved in Nazaré.

Despite the technological progress, one thing remains certain: the Nazaré Canyon and its unique underwater topography create some of the most powerful and unpredictable “freak waves” on earth. Whether measured by drone or by photo analysis, these waves are among the highest and most spectacular ever surfed.

When Do Nazaré’s Giant Waves Appear — and How Can You Watch the Contest?

The Season: When Nazaré Comes Alive

Nazaré’s Big and Giant Waves hit between October and March, with the most reliable action from November to February. These swells form quickly, and modern forecasting only gives accurate predictions for about three days. If you want to witness a big‑wave day or even a contest, you need to monitor the forecast closely and stay flexible.

How We Chased the Perfect Swell

We spent several days in Porto and Galicia, visited the Cathedral Beach in the north of Spain, and checked the wave forecast every morning. When a powerful swell suddenly appeared on the charts, we drove all the way back to Nazaré. Big‑wave days are rare — when the opportunity comes, you take it.

We stayed at Zulla Nazaré`s Surf Village, a favourite among surfers and within walking distance of Praia do Norte. (Highly recommended — and book early.) When we arrived, several Brazilian surfers had already checked in. That’s always a good sign.

Where to Base Yourself

Another great option is to stay in Lisbon, Sintra, or the surrounding coast and keep an eye on the forecast. Nazaré is only 1.5 hours north of Lisbon, so even if accommodations fill up, you can still reach Praia do Norte easily.

If you’re exploring the region, winter is also the perfect time to visit Arouca 516, one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world — and far less crowded in the off‑season.

How to Know When a Contest Might Happen

The WSL announces the contest date only 48 hours in advance. To understand whether a big‑wave day is coming, check the Big Waves Surf Forecast and look at the wave height. Because of the Nazaré Canyon, the real wave height can be up to three times larger than the forecast. That’s why an 8 m swell can suddenly produce a 25 m monster.

My Tips Around Lisbon

Praia da Ursa — My Favourite Beach Near Lisbon

Portugal feels like my second home — my family lives around Lisbon and Estoril, and I’ve explored this region countless times. If you’re visiting Portugal for the first time, the Lisbon area is the perfect base. You can explore stunning beaches, palaces, and coastal cliffs while keeping an eye on the Nazaré forecast.

One of my absolute favourites is Praia da Ursa, a wild and dramatic beach near Cabo da Roca. It’s worth the hike down, and on calm days it’s one of the most beautiful spots in the entire region.

Why Staying Near Lisbon Works So Well

Travelling in Portugal is easiest by car, and rental cars are much cheaper in winter. If you stay in Lisbon, Sintra, or Cascais, you can:

• explore the region on sunny days
• enjoy great food and culture
• and drive to Nazaré in just 1.5 hours when the forecast looks promising

This flexibility is ideal if you want to catch a big‑wave day without committing your entire trip to Nazaré.

Places You Shouldn’t Miss

While waiting for the next swell, you can explore some of the most beautiful places around Lisbon:

• Praia da Ursa — raw, wild, unforgettable
• Montserrate Palace — one of Sintra’s most magical palaces
• Cabo da Roca — the westernmost point of mainland Europe
• Praia da Adraga — dramatic cliffs and a stunning sunset spot
• Torre de Belém — Lisbon’s iconic riverside landmark

These are just a few highlights — the region is full of incredible places, and winter is the perfect time to enjoy them without the summer crowds.

Who Surfed the Biggest Wave Ever?

Sebastian Steudtner — Current World Record Holder (2024)

In April 2024, a new milestone was confirmed: Sebastian Steudtner surfed a wave measuring 28.57 m (94 ft) at Nazaré on February 24, 2024. This record was measured using a groundbreaking drone‑based technique developed by his Mission Alpha team, allowing precise calculations within just one day. It is the highest and most accurately measured wave ever surfed.

This achievement builds on Sebastian’s long history in Nazaré. He moved from Hawaii to Portugal in 2012 and has spent more than a decade studying the canyon, currents, and conditions that create Nazaré’s monster waves.

The 2020 Record — Official Guinness World Record

Before the 2024 measurement, Sebastian already held the Guinness World Record for the biggest wave ever surfed: 86 ft (26.21 m) on October 29, 2020.

The confirmation took nearly two years, as the traditional method relies on analysing photos and videos — a process with a margin of error of up to three metres. When the record was finally announced in June 2022, it marked Sebastian’s third Big Wave Award after earlier wins in 2010 and 2015.

Other Notable Record Holders

• Rodrigo Koxa (Brazil) held the previous record with an 80 ft (24.38 m) wave surfed in 2017.
• Maya Gabeira (Brazil) holds the women’s world record with a 73.5 ft (22.4 m) wave — a historic achievement in big‑wave surfing.
• Lucas “Chumbo” Chianca (Brazil) and Nic von Rupp (Portugal) earned major titles in 2022 and remain among the most respected big‑wave surfers today.

Garrett McNamara — The Surfer Who Put Nazaré on the Map

Nazaré’s global fame began with Garrett McNamara, who surfed a 78 ft (23.78 m) wave after being invited by the mayor of Nazaré in 2009. His ride shocked the surf world and turned Nazaré into the epicentre of big‑wave surfing. The first official competition followed in 2016, and the legend has grown ever since.

Are There Big Waves in Nazaré in Summer?

Summer in Nazaré: Beautiful, But No Giant Waves

Nazaré is a fantastic summer destination — long walks along Praia do Norte, swimming at the calm south beach, fresh seafood, and surfers practising on smaller swells. But one thing you won’t see in summer is big waves. The famous Nazaré giants only appear in autumn and winter, when powerful North Atlantic storms feed the canyon.

In summer, the ocean is calm, the beaches are full, and the atmosphere is completely different from the dramatic winter season.

Nazaré Lighthouse & Big Wave Museum

The lighthouse at Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo is more than a viewpoint — it’s the heart of Nazaré’s big‑wave culture. For a small entrance fee, you can explore the Big Wave Museum, walk through the clifftop fort, and learn exactly how the Nazaré Canyon creates the world’s most powerful waves.

Inside the exhibition, you’ll find detailed explanations of the canyon’s topography, scale models, and displays showing how incoming swells get amplified into the monster waves Nazaré is famous for. One of the highlights is the collection of surfboards from the world’s best big‑wave riders — including Sebastian Steudtner’s black board, proudly displayed among the legends.

From the top of the lighthouse, you get a spectacular view of both Praia do Norte and the calmer south beach. It’s one of the best places to understand the contrast between Nazaré’s peaceful summer coastline and its violent winter swells. The museum also sells high‑quality Nazaré and Praia do Norte shirts at the entrance — we couldn’t resist taking a few home as souvenirs of this unforgettable place.

Dramatic Accidents & Rescue Stories in Nazaré

Big‑wave surfing in Nazaré is breathtaking — and dangerous. Every winter brings wipeouts, close calls, and heroic rescues. Surfers reach 80 km/h, and even medium‑sized waves can knock them unconscious. The tragic death of Marcio Freire in January 2023 reminded everyone how unpredictable these waves are.

Rescues That Made Headlines

• January 2022: A powerful swell pushed waves close to 20 m. Several top surfers wiped out, but the rescue teams — with multiple jet skis per surfer — kept everyone safe.
• December 2021: A chaotic swell trapped Andrew “Cotty” Cotton in the “dead zone” near the rocks after a rescue ski flipped. He escaped with help from the safety team.
• February 2020: Portuguese surfer Alex Botelho suffered one of Nazaré’s most dramatic accidents. After a wipeout, a wave launched him and Hugo Vau off their jet ski. Alex was unconscious for 10 minutes but survived and fully recovered.
• November 2017: Cotty broke his back in a massive wipeout — and later returned to Nazaré.
• February 2017: Brazilian surfer Scooby and his partner Lucas capsized during a rescue attempt in heavy whitewater. Both were pulled from the impact zone just in time.

Why These Stories Matter

Nazaré’s waves are spectacular because they are dangerous. The world’s best surfers train intensely, rely on advanced safety gear, and depend on highly skilled rescue teams. Without them, Nazaré would be unrideable.

Nazaré Big Waves Recent Seasons

Winter Season 2024/2025

The first waves over 20 metres arrived at the end of January, driven by a strong storm system that produced several days of heavy swell. Conditions were extremely challenging, and only a few surfers dared to go out. As always, it will take months before the exact wave heights and contest results are officially confirmed.

Another highlight of the season: Maya Gabeira announced her retirement. She holds the record for the biggest wave ever surfed by a woman and remains one of the most influential figures in big‑wave surfing.

New World Record Announced in April 2024

On February 24th, 2024, Sebastian Steudtner broke his own world record — and I had predicted that this would be a potential monster‑wave day. Using new measurement technology developed by his 30‑person Mission Alpha team, a wave height of 28.57 m (94 ft) was confirmed.

A specially designed drone system accompanied him during the ride, allowing the team to analyse the data within just one day. Mission Alpha has been working for three years toward the goal of surfing even higher waves, including the development of a surfboard capable of reaching speeds over 100 km/h.

Winter Season 2023/2024

Despite heavy wind gusts and rough seas, February 24th delivered what may have been record‑breaking conditions. Surfers including Sebastian Steudtner, Lucas “Chumbo” Chianca, Gabriel Sampaio, and Kalani Lattanzi all had spectacular rides. It will take months of photo and video analysis before any official wave heights are announced.

The first major event of the season, the Tudor Nazaré, took place on January 22nd. Nearly all top big‑wave surfers were present: Sebastian, Nic von Rupp, Scooby, Cotty, Rodrigo Koxa, Maya Gabeira, Justine Dupont, and more. The winners were Maya Gabeira and Lucas “Chumbo” Chianca, both from Brazil.

Although the event delivered impressive 10–15 metre waves, the season did not produce confirmed waves over 20 metres — a reminder that Nazaré’s underwater canyon can create 30‑metre giants, but only under the right conditions.

Winter Season 2022/2023

The season began on a tragic note. On January 5th, 2023, Brazilian surfer Marcio Freire passed away after losing consciousness during a wipeout. Although the wave was not exceptionally large, the impact was strong, and the accident deeply affected the big‑wave community.

Shortly afterwards, many surfers left Nazaré to chase swells in San Diego, Cortes Bank, and Hawaii for the Eddie Aikau event.

On January 19th, 2023, Sebastian Steudtner announced the next phase of Mission Wave Alpha, aiming to surf a wave twice the size of his previous record of 118 ft. Nazaré remains one of the most spectacular places in Europe to watch big waves — and a central stage for the world’s most ambitious big‑wave projects.

Packing Checklist for Nazare

You may spend hours waiting and watching the big wave surfers; you must be prepared. There is a strong and chilly wind. 

• water and a snack, there isn't anything available
• wind- and rainproof jacket, you may wait for hours
• zoom camera, it is more in the distance than it looks in pictures
• binocular
• patience, you may wait for hours until they start surfing

My Restaurant Tip

Afterwards, we were starving and went to A Celeste for fresh seafood. We couldn't believe who also had lunch there; the three Brazilian surfers and their families. 

My husband Markus and I took all the pictures during the contest and a week before. If you wish to use any, please, contact me, but I will take action against picture theft!!

Why do I write this here? Hundreds of my pictures are used worldwide without any credit, nor did they get my permission. I don’t mind giving permission, but I want to get asked for it and to be mentioned. The World Wide Web has changed a lot, and rewriting honest travel content with AI is the new business for many fake travel websites. Do you wish to know more about this topic and how to unmask such websites quickly? Read my article “The Truth About Fake Travel Websites and Picture Theft.”