Summary
Madeira is a beautiful, rugged archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 600 miles southwest of mainland Portugal and just off the Moroccan coast. While it’s best known for its dramatic cliffs, lush hiking trails, and mild year-round climate, Madeira is also a hidden gem for surfers looking for uncrowded lineups and powerful reef breaks.
The island’s exposure to consistent North Atlantic swells makes it a solid surf destination, especially in the winter months when waves are bigger and more reliable. Most of the best surf spots are located on the west and southwest coasts of Madeira Island, with waves suited for both experienced surfers and adventurous beginners looking for a challenge.
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
Find a Surf Camp in Madeira, Starting at US$699
- 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
Where to Stay in Madeira
Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Madeira!
Getting There
The quickest way to reach Madeira is by air.
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Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) is the island’s main gateway, located just 20 minutes from Funchal, the capital city.
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Some ferries operate seasonally from mainland Portugal, but flights are much faster and more convenient.
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
Located near Jardim do Mar, Ponta Pequena is a more accessible right-hand wave that works on smaller swells. The wave is softer and suitable for surfers of all levels.
- Wave direction: Right
- Bottom: Sand
- Best tide: Any
- Skill level: All levels
- Optimal swell direction: W
- Optimal wind direction: NE
Paul do Mar
Paul do Mar is another powerful right-hand reef break known for its fast, hollow waves. It can get heavy and is best suited for experienced surfers when the swell is pumping.
- Wave direction: Right
- Bottom: Reef
- Best tide: Any
- Skill level: Intermediate and advanced
- Optimal swell direction: W
- Optimal wind direction: NE
Achadas da Cruz
This spot offers both lefts and rights over a rocky and reef bottom. It’s a more exposed wave that handles northwesterly swells and is suitable for all skill levels depending on conditions.
- 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