Leiria, Portugal

North Beach

North Beach, also known as Praia do Norte, is located in a small fishing town that has gained worldwide recognition as a surfing hotspot. This beach is known for its natural beauty, characterized by a 1.5-kilometer long expanse of golden sand backed by sand dunes. It offers a serene environment for visitors who prefer less crowded beaches.

One of the most notable features of North Beach is its massive waves, which are some of the biggest and most dangerous in the world. This is due to a geological phenomenon known as the Nazaré Canyon, a 175-kilometer long and 5-kilometer deep channel of deepwater offshore. This canyon funnels the Atlantic swells into the beaches of Nazaré, resulting in the massive waves that North Beach is known for.

Visitors can enjoy walking along the beach and taking in the view from the lighthouse. However, access to the beach can be challenging, especially when the tide is high. Some visitors have been known to climb down via the rock formation on the southernmost point of the beach during low tide. There are also some unofficial paths further up the road, or one can choose to walk or drive all the way around.

Explore accommodation options near North Beach and experience the thrill of witnessing some of the world's biggest waves.

The beach is not typically crowded, even during the surfing season. The water temperature tends to be cool, making it a favorite spot for daring surfers. Despite its reputation for dangerous waves, the beach is also suitable for visitors who simply want to enjoy the scenery and the power of nature.

What to do at North Beach?

Restaurants

Best restaurants near North Beach include Big Wave Food North, PortoBello, Le Petit Chef Belge, Sombra & Sol and Pitéu.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the natural beauty and tranquility of the beach, with its clean, golden sand, stunning views, and powerful waves. The beach is particularly appreciated for its lack of crowds and its appeal to surfers due to its world-renowned, massive waves. However, some visitors express concerns about the lack of safe access paths to the beach, especially during high tide.

Where to Stay near North Beach?

If you’re planning a trip to Praia do Norte near Nazaré, consider staying in the town of Nazaré itself, which offers a range of accommodations from cozy guesthouses to larger hotels. Many visitors choose Nazaré for its vibrant local culture and proximity to the famous North Beach, making it a convenient base for both surfing and exploring the scenic beauty of the region.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Find the best nearby activities

What to do near North Beach?

Where is North Beach?

Latitude: 39.6120343 / Longitude: -9.0854479

North Beach is located in Leiria. The following map of North Beach shows the exact location.

North Beach: Weather Today

đź“… Monday, June 30, 2025
Today at North Beach is pleasant overall, though the sea might be too cold for swimming. Expect a day with comfortable temperatures reaching up to 24.9 °C. The sun will be strong, so make sure to use sunscreen, as the UV index will reach 7.6. There's little chance of rain. Be aware that it could be breezy with moderate winds. The sea temperature is 18.1 °C, and the waves will be high.
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Air

Low / High18.7°C/24.9°C
Feels Like (High)28.5°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature18.1 °C
Wave Height1.7 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:12/21:07
Sunshine Hours13.6 hrs
UV Index7.6
Cloud Cover29%
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Wind

Speed22.8 km/h
Gusts43.2 km/h
DirectionN

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