Praia do Matadouro

This is your best bet for hassle-free windsurfing in Ericeira. You’ll meet fewer surfers than up the coast at 'Ribeira d’Ilhas', and hence avoid conflict. Plus the wind isn’t as gusty yet the frontside conditions are still excellent at Matadouro. The fun only stops at low tide: there’s hardly any water over the reef, and rocks hosting sharp mussels and sea-urchins make for a difficult exit. A radical wave spot for accomplished windsurfers; kiters will find the rocky sands too small. Ask a local to point out the narrow launch channel.