Peniche and Baleal
Peniche, which is Europe’s most western town, is located 90 km north of Lisbon. A former island, it was gradually joined to the mainland by the 17th century. The peninsula of Baleal, 5 km from Peniche, was once an island as well. The beaches around Baleal, with their fine golden sands bathed by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, are one of the most beautiful in Portugal and offer ideal surfing conditions.
Peniche and Baleal have no lack of cafes and restaurants either. The ocean is everywhere, so you can stay at one of the beachside cafes to enjoy delicious Portuguese coffee, relax or watch the spectacular sunset. Explore scintillating nightlife by visiting the many bars in the area. It’s also a five-ten minute stroll to the local shops, bakeries, nearest supermarket, surf shops, banks, and much more.
When Silver Coast talks about consistent waves, Peniche and Baleal are considered incredible places. During the year there is no such thing as a month “gap” with no waves. Thanks to favorable geographical position, the peninsulas of Peniche and Baleal, situated close to each other, have plenty of quality waves, breaking with great consistency.
Any time of the year, there are waves for surfers of all levels: massive and difficult or tiny and effortless. Depending on the swell’s direction, one can find surfing spots that are more protected from the swell or more exposed to it. And as the coastline here accepts winds from different directions, you have a big chance to find it offshore somewhere. Within 15 km distance, there are more than 20 surf spots to choose from for surfers of any level.
A broad sheltered bay between peninsulas of Peniche and Baleal is a perfect playground for beginners as well as experienced surfers on bigger days. This is one of the most uncrowded stretches of the coast, and probably the easiest beginner surfing spot in the area.