West Madeira · Portugal
Surfing Faja da Areia
A beach/reef in West Madeira, Portugal, for intermediate and advanced surfers.
Fajã da Areia is one of the few surf spots on Madeira's north coast, where most of the shore is cliffs dropping into deep water. It breaks over sand and rock, a different set-up from the big west-coast points.
The way down is steep, like most of the island. It works on a medium north-west swell, and you'll rarely see anyone else.
It's best in winter on a moderate north-west swell, when the west coast points are too big or blown out. The north coast is beautiful but steep, and the roads are slow, so allow time to get there.
When to surf
Faja da Areia
Faja da Areia is at its best from November to March. Conditions it likes: Moderate NW swell.
November to March: Prime
Biggest, most powerful NW-N swell, serious big-wave season
April to May: Good
Smaller, more manageable swell, milder weather
June to September: Quiet
Flatter, warmer, better for sightseeing than surfing
The year across Madeira
Waves near Faja da Areia
Jardim do Mar
17 kmWest Madeira · Right Point · Pro
Ponta Pequena
17 kmWest Madeira · Right Point · Advanced / Pro
Paul do Mar
19 kmWest Madeira · Right Point · Advanced / Pro
Straight-line distances. By road it is usually further.
Getting there
Where to stay: Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar are small villages right above the waves, with a few guesthouses and rooms to rent; book ahead for the winter swell season. Calheta, a little east, has more hotels and apartments and a small marina. Funchal is more than an hour away, so it only makes sense if you have a car and want the city.
Transport, costs, where to stay and the rest of the waves in the area are in the West Madeira guide.
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