Ribeira de Ilhas Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
NW
Wind
E, SE
Surf Height
Thigh high to double overhead plus.
Tide
All tides
Ribeira de Ilhas Surf Guide
Looking out from the clifftop onto a classic day, you could be mistaken for thinking you're watching Bells Beach. The cliff lined sandy bay, the reeling right hand walls that speed down the line, back off, then speed through to the finish on the inside - they certainly have more than a familiar air to them. But this wave more than holds its own in comparison. Part of its quality comes in its flexibility - it starts breaking at just over knee high and keeps going to double overhead or more - pumping out huge, winding faces that can run for over 200m. There is also a reef on the outside northern edge of the main break called Pontina, a right hander that works best in medium swells. Very occasionally it will connect to the main break. Popular spot with good facilties including showers and a beach bar to boot.
Ability Level
All Abilities
Beginners can get waves when small but mostly the point is a long, bustling line-up best for intermediates and advanced surfers.
Local Vibe
Doable
Competitive, can be feisty when at its busiest and best.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Popular spot - can get super crowded.
Spot Rating
Fun
High quality right hand reef with ripable walls that can reel for over 200m from small to double overhead.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Easy paddle out - launch from the beach to the south of the wave and paddle round, not through the line-up.
Water Quality
Fair
Not great.
Hazards
Crowds.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Longboard, Bodyboard
Access
Parking at beach.
Bottom
Sand covered reef.
Best Season
Best September to May.
Do you have local knowledge about Ribeira de Ilhas?
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