surftrips.co
Aerial satellite view of Praia das Moitas surf break in Albatroz, Zona Oeste Portugal, Portugal
Albatroz, Zona Oeste Portugal, Portugal

Praia das Moitas

38.702, -9.410
Edited by Tom Jackson
Verified May 2026
ResearchedCross-checked against Web research
At a glance
  • Praia das Moitas is a right over point, mellow multi-section right-hand point.
  • Suits intermediate surfers, working 3-8 ft.
  • Peak October to March, water 14-20°C.
Right · PointIntermediate3–8 ftJan – Dec

A right-hand point peeling off the jetty between Cascais and Estoril, Praia das Moitas sits in a sheltered pocket of the Estoril Coast that keeps working when the exposed west-facing beaches are blown out or maxed. W swells wrap around the point and break into multiple sections, with N or NE offshore winds cleaning up the face from October through March. It suits intermediate surfers looking for something more accessible than the heavier waves nearby, and draws fewer crowds than the ever-busy Carcavelos lineup despite being just a short train ride from Lisbon. Bottom: point over sand and rock. Season: October to March. Consistency: moderate but reliable during winter swell pulses. The jetty defines the takeoff zone and shapes the ride, but treat it with respect as it becomes a serious hazard in bigger surf or when caught inside.

Wave fit

Skill suited
Intermediate
BegIntAdv
Best months
Jan – Dec
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Character
Mellow multi-section right-hand point.

Conditions

When it works
NESW
Swell window
W
W
Offshore wind
N
N (ne)
Hazards
Jetty
Trip planning

Quick facts

Water temp
14° to 20°C
Wetsuit
3/2 to 4/3
What to bring
  • Mid-length or high-volume shortboard 6ft 4in to 7ft for varied sections
  • Fish or hybrid for smaller, punchier days
Lineup
Easy-going
Where it sits

Location

Loading map...
About this break

What it's actually like

Crowd & Localism

Significantly quieter than Carcavelos most sessions, which makes it a smart alternative during peak autumn and winter weekends. The lineup is generally relaxed, but locals know their spot and deserve respect in the takeoff zone near the jetty. Dawn patrol on weekday swells gets you the best of it.

Access & Facilities

Easily reached by train from Lisbon on the Cascais line, alighting at Monte Estoril station. The beach is a short walk from the platform. Cascais town, a few minutes west, has cafes, restaurants, and surf shops. Water quality is generally good but check after heavy rainfall given urban runoff in the area.

Nearby Alternatives

When Moitas is flat or too small, Carcavelos a few stops east offers more consistent beach break across multiple peaks, though crowds will be heavier. Cascais town beach and the points around Boca do Inferno pick up more direct W swell if you need size.

10-day swell, wind and tide

Praia das Moitas surf forecast

Loading forecast...

Forecast by Windy.app

More breaks in Zona Oeste Portugal

If this isn't your wave

All Zona Oeste Portugal breaks
Plan a trip
Build a trip around Praia das Moitas
Tell us your dates, skill, and crew. We match camps within boat range and forward inquiries.
Frequently asked

What you need to know before paddling out at Praia das Moitas

What skill level is Praia das Moitas suited for?
Praia das Moitas is a point bottom, mellow multi-section right-hand point, break suited for intermediate surfers.
What size does Praia das Moitas work best at?
Working size is 3 to 8 ft. Below 3 ft the swell goes flat. Above 8 ft it tends to close out.
When is the best season to surf Praia das Moitas?
Praia das Moitas fires from October through March. Outside that window the swell window narrows and the lineup goes quiet.
What swell direction does Praia das Moitas need?
Praia das Moitas switches on with a w groundswell. Offshore winds blow from the n (ne).
What are the main hazards at Praia das Moitas?
Main hazards at Praia das Moitas: jetty.
What type of wave is Praia das Moitas?
Praia das Moitas is a right-breaking wave over point. Mellow multi-section right-hand point.
Where can I stay near Praia das Moitas?
2 camps sit within easy reach. The closest is Surf Cascais, 4.6 km from the lineup.

Sources

  • Web research
Praia das Moitas
Pick the camps you want quotes from.
Ask about trips