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Aerial satellite view of Beliche surf break in Vila do Bispo Municipality, Algarve Portugal, Portugal
Vila do Bispo Municipality, Algarve Portugal, Portugal

Beliche

37.025, -8.965
Edited by Thomas Jackson
Verified May 2026
Triple-checkedCross-checked against 3 references
A-frame · BeachIntermediate → Advanced3–8 ftJan – Dec

A cliff-lined sandy cove south of Sagres, Beliche punches above its size with a wedgy hollow peak that throws up quality left and right ramps off a compact beach. SW to NW swell is the primary window, with S swells also firing it up. NE offshore wind is key. Low to mid tide is the move as the bay can go flat at high. The wave suits experienced surfers at the main wedge, though the outer peaks are accessible to intermediates on smaller days. It does get very crowded when conditions click, and the local energy is competitive. Bottom: sand. Season: Dec to Feb. Consistency: high in winter. The main wedge is heavier than it looks from the cliff top, so do not paddle out beyond your ability or the pack will let you know about it.

Wave fit

Skill suited
Intermediate → Advanced
BegIntAdv
Best months
Jan – Dec
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Character
Fast hollow wedge peak, lefts and rights.

Conditions

When it works
NESW
Swell window
SE
SE - W
Offshore wind
NE
North easterly
Optimum tide
Low to mid tide
Size range
3-12ft
High
Hazards
No concerns
Trip planning

Quick facts

Water temp
15° to 20°C
Wetsuit
3/2 to 4/3
What to bring
  • Shortboard 6ft to 6ft 4in for the main wedge
  • Fish or funboard for smaller, softer days
Lineup
Heavy locals, respect required
Where it sits

Location

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About this break

What it's actually like

Crowd & Localism

Expect company whenever this wave turns on. Weekend sessions can become ultra-crowded, and the local crew is territorial at the peak. Dawn patrol midweek is your best window for breathing room. The vibe is competitive but manageable if you surf well, give respect, and do not drop in.

Access & Facilities

From Sagres, follow signs toward Praia Beliche from the roundabout near the castle. A car park sits at the cliff top and a long flight of steep steps leads down to the sand. Camping is available nearby. Keep well clear of the crumbling cliff edges above the beach.

Nearby Alternatives

When Beliche is maxed out or too crowded, Tonel on the other side of Sagres picks up more swell and offers a broader spread of peaks. Mareta at the town beach is a milder option on smaller days, and the point at Arrifana to the north is worth the drive when a solid N or NW swell is running.

10-day swell, wind and tide

Beliche surf forecast

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Forecast by Windy.app

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Frequently asked

Before you paddle out

Beliche is a beach break suited for intermediate to advanced surfers.
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