Surf spots in Palmeira
4 spots within 5 km of Palmeira: 4 reef breaks.
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The spots
- Fontona · reef break, intermediate, best on NW/WNW/N swell with ESE/SE/E wind, low to mid tide. Small bay just south of Palmeira with a right over reef that only breaks when the north-west swell is big enough.
- Palmeira · reef break, intermediate, best on NW/N/WNW swell with E/ESE/SE wind, mid tide. Short, quick left over reef just south of Palmeira harbour on the west coast, worth the drive from Santa Maria when the south is flat.
- Alibaba · reef break, advanced, best on NW/NNW/N swell with SE/E wind, mid tide. Walled-up right along a rocky point below the cliffs south of Palmeira; one of Sal's best-known waves for experienced surfers, working on north-west swell.
- Monte Leão · reef break, intermediate, best on WSW/W/NW swell with NE/NNE/E wind, mid tide. Right over reef in the lee of the Monte Leão (Sleeping Lion) headland, wrapping into Murdeira bay; sheltered and inconsistent, it needs a big north-west or moderate…
Questions
What are the best surf spots in Palmeira?
The best-known are Fontona, Palmeira, Alibaba, Monte Leão. In all, 4 spots lie within 5 km: 4 reef breaks.
Where can beginners surf in Palmeira?
Palmeira is mostly for intermediate and advanced surfers: reefs, points or powerful beach breaks. Beginners should take a lesson and stay on the smallest days.