Praia da Nazaré Guide
Nazaré Beach: Sun, Surf, and Tradition! Guide
Welcome to Praia da Nazaré, a stunning beach nestled in the charming fishing town of Nazaré, Portugal. Famous for its colossal waves and rich maritime heritage, this beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you're a thrill-seeking surfer, a sunbather seeking relaxation, or a history enthusiast eager to explore local traditions, Nazaré Beach has something for everyone. Nazaré's history is deeply intertwined with the sea. Legend has it that in 1182, Dom Fuas Roupinho, a knight of the Templars, was saved from plunging over the cliffs by a miracle attributed to Our Lady of Nazaré. This event led to the construction of a chapel and the subsequent growth of the town. In more recent times, Nazaré gained international recognition for its record-breaking waves, attracting big wave surfers from around the globe. The iconic image of Garrett McNamara surfing a massive wave here cemented Nazaré's place on the world map. At Praia da Nazaré, you can soak up the sun, swim in the Atlantic, or simply stroll along the expansive shoreline. For the adventurous, watching the big wave surfers during the winter months is an unforgettable experience. Take a ride on the Nazaré funicular to Sítio, the upper part of town, for panoramic views of the beach and coastline. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market) to sample fresh seafood and local produce. Nazaré is renowned for its dried fish, especially "carapaus secos" (dried horse mackerel), a local delicacy. You can also find delicious seafood restaurants lining the beach, offering fresh catches of the day prepared in traditional Portuguese style.
Transportation
From Lisbon, you can take a Rede Expressos bus directly to Nazaré. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Once in Nazaré, the beach is easily accessible on foot from the bus station. Local buses also operate within Nazaré, connecting the beach area with Sítio and other parts of the town.