Located in Northern Portugal, Viana do Castelo is a stunning historic town with a world-class watersports beach: Cabedelo. It is famous for its reliable thermal winds in summer and a large breakwater that protects the harbour from the massive Atlantic swell, creating a flat-water playground.
Detailed Wind & Conditions Chart
| Month | Wind Probability | Avg Wind Speed | Wind Direction | Wetsuit | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May - Sep | 80% | 18-30 kts | NW (Thermal) | 4/3mm | Flat/Waves |
| Oct - Apr | 50% | 15-25 kts | W / SW | 4/3 or 5/4 | Big Swell |
Data compiled from Windguru and FeelViana records.
Primary Spots
Cabedelo Beach (Inside the Pier)
The northern end of the beach is protected by a massive harbour breakwater.
- Conditions: The water here is flat to choppy, protected from the ocean swell.
- Wind: The thermal wind (Nortada) blows side-shore from the right. It typically kicks in around 12:00 PM and builds until sunset.
- Ideal For: Freestyle, slalom, and learning.
Cabedelo Beach (Down the Beach)
As you move south away from the pier, the swell starts to wrap in.
- Conditions: Clean waves. The further south you go, the bigger the waves.
- Ideal For: Wave riding.
Alternative Spots Nearby
Moledo
20 minutes north, near the Spanish border.
- Conditions: Open ocean beach with a stunning view of the island fortress.
- Wind: Stronger Nortada than Viana.
- Waves: Can get heavy.
Esposende
20 minutes south.
- Conditions: River mouth and lagoon.
- Tide: Tide dependent.
- Vibe: Flatter water inside the river bar.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (May-September): The thermal engine is in full effect. You can set your watch by the wind. Mornings are calm (great for surfing or SUP), and afternoons are windy. Water Temp: It is the Atlantic. Even in summer, the water is cool (16-18°C). Bring a good 4/3mm wetsuit.
Accommodation & Dining
Accommodation
- Hotel FeelViana: A luxury hotel built specifically for watersports. It is right on the beach. Wood cabins, spa, yoga, and a massive gear storage area. Visit FeelViana
- Camping Orbitur: Located just behind the dunes. Affordable bungalows and tent pitches.
Dining
- Tasquinha da Linda: In the Viana port. Incredible seafood.
- Aquario: Famous for its grilled fish.
- FeelViana Restaurant: High-end dining at the hotel.
Schools & Rentals
Full-Service Centers
- FeelViana Center: High-end rental center attached to the hotel. They stock the latest Cabrinha and Duotone gear.
- Viana Locals: A dedicated school offering lessons and rentals. Visit Viana Locals
- Duotone Pro Center: Located at the campsite.
Travel Logistics
Getting There:
- Fly: Porto Airport (OPO) is only 45 mins drive.
- Drive: Easy highway access from Porto.
Transport:
- A car is useful to visit the town of Viana (across the river), but if you stay at Cabedelo, you can walk to the spot. A small ferry crosses the river to the town center.
Local Rules & Etiquette
- Swim Zones: In summer, the area directly in front of the lifeguard tower is for swimmers. Launch in the designated kite/windsurf channel.
- Right of Way: It can get busy near the pier. Look before you gybe.
- Rocks: There is a small patch of rocks at the low-tide mark halfway down the beach. It is usually marked, but keep an eye out.
Resources
- FeelViana Webcam - Live view of the beach
- FeelViana Webcam - Live beach view
- Viana Locals - School info
- Windguru Viana - Forecast
- Viana Tourism