Ericeira is a civil parish in the municipality of Mafra, on the western coast of Portugal. This place dates back to the 12th century. It's a fishermen village, with cobbled streets and characteristic housing. It's a place with buildings of historical architecture.
This spot is a popular tourists destination. The shinny days and the clean water of the beaches provide you with all you need for your summer vacations. As for the fans of Baywatch, there are lifeguards over the beach, in case you need someone to safeguard you from the waves. Ericeira or the Mecca of surf offers the right conditions for surfing. Some of you would like to exit through the back door. But, be careful, don’t try the Backdoor beach of Ericeira, because the waves will charm you and they definitely won’t let you go.
So, if you are a surf junkie, take your board and let’s find the secret treasures of this beach. The reef-rocky type of the waves, with right direction, challenge you in a game of passion. They are fast, powerful and hollow. The north and northwest swell direction is the best. For the wind, the southeast and east, are the best direction.
In summer, most of the time the waves swell size is 1.3-2 m (4-6.5 ft) and the wind blows offshore at 8%. In autumn, the wind blows offshore at 30% of the time and the waves swell size is from 1.3 to 3 m (4-10 ft). In winter, the waves swell size is 2-3 m (6.5-10 ft) and at 25% of the time the swell size is >3m (10ft) and the wind blows offshore at 37%. In spring, the wind blows offshore at 25% and the waves swell size is from 1.3 to 3 m (4-10 ft). This beach is suitable for experienced surfers, but there are surf schools at your disposal, in case you need to change your level of skills and experience.
In Ericeira, there are tasteful seafood restaurants with excellent fresh fish. There are also lovely accommodations for your relaxing time. Sta. Casa da Misericórdia da Ericeira Museum reminds you that the ancient art and the history are still alive. Visit the municipal library (Biblioteca Municipal da Ericeira) and let the smell of the books to travel you back in old times. You can also visit the Casa de Cultura Jaime Lobo E Silva, the cultural center of Ericeira.
