One of Europe's most punishing right-hand barrels detonates over a barely submerged cheese-grater reef on the Ericeira coastline, west of Lisbon. NW to N swells hit this submerged shelf out of deep water and produce near-square barrels with an air-drop take-off, a lip that peels at terrifying speed, and a notorious tendency to clamp shut at the shoulder. High tide is mandatory: lower water exposes the urchin-covered reef to a degree that makes the risk unacceptable even for experienced riders. This is a spectator wave for the vast majority. Helmets and thick rubber are strongly recommended by those who know it best. Bottom: shallow submerged reef. Season: October through March. Consistency: medium. Easterly winds are the offshore call, if it is firing, bring a step-up or gun and expect a short but violent ride you will not forget.
Cave draws a self-selecting crowd: on the rare days it comes together, you will find a small group of hellmen and bodyboarders. The spot does not suffer from typical crowd pressure because most surfers are simply not equipped to deal with it. Respect that reality. If you are not in the category of people who charge consequence waves regularly, you are a hazard to yourself and others.
Cave sits adjacent to Crazy Left on the bay to its left. Free parking is available nearby. Basic camping facilities are in the area. There are no water quality concerns flagged, but the reef hazard is the dominant risk: shallow rock, sea urchins, and zero margin for error on wipeouts.
When Cave is too big or too consequential, Coxos directly across the point offers long, powerful right-hand walls for advanced surfers. Pedra Branca is another heavy Ericeira right worth checking in similar swell windows. Ribeira d'Ilhas, a short distance away, provides a more accessible and consistent option when the ocean is active.
Forecast by Windy.app
