Nazaré is perched dramatically on Portugal’s Atlantic coast. Famous for its record-breaking waves and charming seaside culture, the town is a top destination for travelers looking to enjoy raw natural beauty. Its rich fishing traditions have endured for centuries. Few places on earth combine as seamlessly such authentic Portuguese culture, stunning scenery, and jaw-dropping surf. Here are the best things to do in Nazaré.
Marvel at the Giant Waves of Praia do Norte
The massive waves of Praia do Norte led Nazaré to its modern fame. Surfers began conquering its swells as the beach is home to some of the biggest waves on earth. These waves can easily reach 20-30 meters (65-100 feet) high due to the underwater Nazaré Canyon. Daredevils take advantage of the ideal surfing conditions in winter to ride the waves, setting records and leaving onlookers in utter awe. THN Travel Tip: Head to the lighthouse at Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo for the best view.
Explore the Lighthouse and Surf Museum
The Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo is perched on the cliff overlooking Praia do Norte. The fortress is the best place for the best views, where travelers can catch both the surfing spectacle and pretty spectacular sunsets. The surf museum is inside the fortress, where surfboards from legendary big-wave surfers and record-makers are housed. Oceanography displays help visitors understand how the Nazaré Canyon creates such towering swells.
Discover the Fishermen’s Quarter and Praia da Nazaré
The town’s old quarter is still intact and retains much of its original fishing village charm. Meander the narrow cobbled streets or snap photos of the whitewashed houses. Sit with an espresso and watch the world and waves go by. Located by the main beach, the old quarter stretches along the seafront of Praia da Nazaré. The time-honored tradition of fish drying continues to this day. Rows upon rows of mackerel, sardines, and squid are left to dry on wooden racks in the salty ocean breeze.
Ride the Funicular to Sítio
The Nazaré Funicular takes travelers up to Sítio, the neighborhood perched on a cliff overlooking the town. The historical funicular has been running since 1889. THN Travel Tip: Head to the Miradouro do Suberco viewpoint for sweeping panoramas of the coastline. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré is a baroque-style church that sits at the top of Sítio. The site has drawn pilgrims for centuries and is known for its blue and white tiles (azulejos) and gilded altars.
Savor Fresh Seafood by the Sea
Enjoy some of the freshest seafood Portugal has to offer from Nazaré’s age-old traditions. Seafood has been a way of life in the town for centuries. Families would often head out into the Atlantic at dawn and return with their fresh catch. Grilled sardines are often cooked over charcoal and simply served with salad or potatoes. A rustic fishermen’s stew called caldeirada de peixe is made with local fish, potatoes, and plenty of herbs. Seafood rice, or arroz de marisco, is another classic option that boasts flavors of shrimp, clams, and mussels in a rich broth. Head to a seaside tavern or family-run restaurant for the day’s freshest and best!
