Map of Nazare, Portugal
Explore Portugal's legendary big wave destination with our interactive Nazare map featuring Praia do Norte, the historic Sitio clifftop, and traditional fishing heritage.
About Nazare
Nazare is a small fishing town on Portugal's Silver Coast that has gained worldwide fame for producing some of the largest surfable waves on Earth. Beyond the extreme surf, Nazare retains its authentic character with colorful fishing boats, women in traditional seven-layered skirts, and a dramatic clifftop neighborhood called Sitio connected by a historic funicular.
The Big Waves
Nazare's giant waves are created by a unique underwater canyon:
- Nazare Canyon - 5km deep underwater canyon that amplifies Atlantic swells
- World Records - Waves over 30 meters have been surfed here
- Big Wave Season - October to March for the largest swells
- Viewing Point - Fort of Sao Miguel offers the best vantage point
- WSL Events - Regular World Surf League big wave competitions
Top Attractions
Praia do Norte
The north beach where giant waves break in winter. Watch from the Fort of Sao Miguel lighthouse for the best views of big wave surfing action.
Sitio
The clifftop neighborhood 110 meters above the beach, reached by the historic 1889 funicular. Home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazare and stunning views.
Ascensor da Nazare
Historic funicular railway connecting the beach level to Sitio since 1889. A scenic 3-minute ride with spectacular coastal views.
Fort of Sao Miguel
16th-century fort and lighthouse now housing a surf museum and the prime viewing platform for big wave watching.
Praia da Nazare
Main town beach with golden sand, calm summer waters, and colorful traditional boats pulled up on the sand.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazare
Pilgrimage church in Sitio with baroque architecture and the legend of the miraculous salvation of a nobleman.
Local Traditions
Nazare has preserved many traditional customs:
- Seven Skirts - Older women still wear colorful layered skirts
- Fishing Boats - Traditional painted boats on the beach
- Fish Drying - Sardines and other fish dried on wooden racks
- Fresh Seafood - Excellent restaurants along the beachfront
Getting to Nazare
- Bus - Regular services from Lisbon (2 hours) and Coimbra
- Car - 120 km north of Lisbon via A8
- Train - Nearest station is Valado dos Frades (6 km)