Praia do Cabedelo
A long, wild beach on the other side of the river, made for wind, waves and space.
- Where
- South bank, opposite the town
- Best for
- Kitesurf, windsurf, surf
- Sea in summer
- 16–19 °C
- Getting there
- Summer ferry or 10 min by car
Place to see
Where the Rio Lima meets the Atlantic, on the south bank opposite the town, lies Praia do Cabedelo. Fine sand, dunes held together by boardwalks and a pine forest behind give it a wide-open, natural feel, even in high summer.
Cabedelo is one of the best-known spots in northern Portugal for kitesurfing and windsurfing: in summer the north wind, the nortada, picks up most afternoons. Surfers find waves all year round, and the surf schools here teach every level from first-timers to experienced riders.
Don't miss
- 1The colourful kites over the water on a windy afternoon
- 2A walk along the boardwalks through the dunes
- 3Sunset with the town and Santa Luzia across the river
- 4A first surf or kite lesson with one of the local schools
A day at Cabedelo
Morning
Calm water and an almost empty beach: the best time for a walk, a swim or a first surf lesson.
Midday
Find a sheltered spot in the dunes or take a break in the shade of the pine woods.
Afternoon
The nortada picks up and the kites and windsurf sails come out.
Sunset
The sun sinks into the Atlantic while the lights of Viana come on across the river.
Good to know
- Lifeguards are on duty in the bathing season, roughly June to September.
- Stay away from the river mouth when swimming: the current there is strong.
- The ferry only runs in the warm months; the rest of the year, cross the Ponte Eiffel by car or bike.
On the map
Where it is, among the other highlights of Viana. Tap a pin to jump there.
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