Summary
Madeira is a stunning archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, a few hundred miles off the Moroccan coastline. It is a popular tourist destination known for its subtropical climate, beautiful landscapes, and outdoor activities. Surfing is one of the many activities that tourists and locals alike enjoy on the island.
The surfing conditions in Madeira vary depending on the location and the season. The island is exposed to a variety of swells, including north and northwest swells, which can provide good surfing conditions on the north and northwest coast. The south and southeast coast also has some good surf spots, but these are usually more sheltered and have smaller waves.
Find a Surf Camp in Madeira, Starts at US$357
Three main islands are part of the Madeira archipelago but Madeira Island is by far the most visited and where most surf spots are located. With its stunning cliffs and breathtaking landscapes, Madeira is an awesome destination to truly enjoy the great outdoors and catch awesome, uncrowded waves.
Most surfing beaches are located on the west side of Madeira Island, with the best waves rolling through the winter months, from November to March. Overall, Madeira offers a wide range of surfing experiences, from challenging reef breaks to more mellow beach breaks. It is a great destination for surfers of all levels and offers something for everyone.
When to go
The best time of year to surf in Madeira depends on your preferences and the type of waves you are looking for. The winter months (December to March) typically offer the best conditions for surfing, with larger and more consistent waves. The summer months (June to September) tend to have smaller and less consistent waves, but the water is warmer and the weather is generally more pleasant.
| January-February | March-April | May-June | July-August | September-October | November-December | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable for: | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced | All surfers | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced |
| Air temperature | 16°C 61°F | 17°C 62°F | 20°C 68°F | 22°C 72°F | 22°C 72°F | 19°C 65°F |
| Water temperature | 18°C 64°F | 18°C 64F | 20°C 68°F | 23°C 73°F | 24°C 75°F | 21°C 70°F |
| Crowd | Few people | Few people | Few people | Few people | Few people | Few people |
| Swell Consistency | 90% | 90% | 75% | 50% | 85% | 90% |
| Swell height | 8 ft | 8 ft | 5 ft | 4 ft | 6 ft | 9 ft |
Surf Camps in Madeira
8-day Authentic Surf Camp With 2 Pilates Sessions
US$664, includes:
- 7 nights accommodation
- 5 Surf Lessons (60 – 90 minutes)
- 2 Pilates sessions
- Breakfast is included
- Insurance
- Transfers to the surf spots for free by request
8-day Surf Camp in Porto Da Cruz, Madeira Island
US$368, includes:
- 5 surf lessons
- Surfing equipment
- Experienced instructors
- Transportation to the beach
- 7 nights’ accommodation
- Insurance
Where to Stay in Madeira
Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Madeira!
Getting There
Although some ferries do operate from Portugal, the best and most efficient way to get to Madeira is by flying. The Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport is located right on Madeira Islands which offers the best surfing potential of the archipelago.
Surf spots in Madeira
Jardim do Mar
Jardim do Mar is a popular surf spot on the south-west side of Madeira that offers a great right-hand reef break. Works on most westerly swells and remains more suitable for experienced surfers.
Wave direction : Right
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
Optimal swell direction : WNW
Optimal wind direction : NE
Ponta Pequana
Wave direction : Right
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : NE
Paul do Mar
Wave direction : Right
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : NE
Achadas da Cruz
Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Reef and rocks
Best tide : Low to mid tide
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : NW
Optimal wind direction : ENE