São Lourenço is a consistent and powerful right-hand wave that breaks over a sandy-rocky reef, located at the northernmost point of the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve. São Lourenço is known for its long walls and multiple sections, with challenging and vertical take-offs that can be scary if you are not an experienced surfer.
When bigger swells arrive, São Lourenço transforms into a heavy wave, capable of handling swells up to 5 meters, making it one of the most powerful breaks in the region of Ericera. However, with size comes danger—clean-up sets from the west can surprise surfers who are not experienced in this spot, so caution is essential.
São Lourenço looks like a beach break, but in reality the wave breaks over a rocky platform, quite far from the shore, creating a long, right fast wave that can barrel on the take-off before mellowing out into a more open and less intimidating shoulder. The inside section is friendlier, allowing for flowing turns and even longboard rides on smaller days if the conditions are right.
On rare occasions, with the right conditions (low tide and specific swell angles), a small beach break can form near the shore, and a left-hander may appear on the southern side of the bay.
The wave is best surfed from low to mid-tide, with northwest swells and easterly winds (NE-SE) providing the cleanest conditions. Due to its distance from central Ericeira, it tends to be less crowded than other spots in the area.
Entry, exit, and hazards
Entering and exiting the water can be tricky, especially at high tide, when a heavy shore break pounds the beach. Paddling out requires strength, particularly on bigger days, as strong currents and cleanup sets can push surfers to the sides of the bay.
You can also enter through the reef on the right side, but it is sharp and should be avoided: sea urchins and slippery surfaces make it a hazard.
Localism and Crowds
While localism is not extreme in Portugal, São Lourenço does see its share of experienced locals who know the wave well. Respect in the lineup is key—wait your turn, don’t drop in, and maintain good surf etiquette.
Despite its quality, São Lourenço remains less crowded than spots like Coxos or Ribeira d’Ilhas, making it a great option for surfers looking for powerful waves without the heavy competition to catch yours.
Final Thoughts
São Lourenço is a must-surf for experienced and pro surfers visiting Ericeira, offering a mix of power, length, and versatility.
Video: tow-in surfing on a big day at São Lourenço
On big days São Lourenço can hold-up big swells, so a few times tow-in surfing has been organized there.
Check this video below to see São Lourenço pumping during a big swell:
