Pedra Branca sits at the southern tip of Praia da Empa, right next to Backdoor, and is often considered the best left in the area of Ericeira. Its name means “white stone,” and it’s the first wave in the World Surfing Reserve of Ericeira, giving it a special reputation among locals and experienced surfers.
The wave is a fast, hollow reef break that’s not for the faint of heart. Most people come here when they’re confident on shallow reefs and want an advanced left-hand wave that easily offers barrels.
Description of Pedra Branca
Pedra Branca is a steep, hollow left wave that breaks over a shallow reef. The take-off must be quick, fast and precise, so is a wave for advanced surfers only.
Small swells are enough for Pedra Branca to start working, but it can hold up to around 2.5 metres when the swell grows. The wave breaks over a reef with holes and grooves on the rock, with shallow sections, so mistakes on the stand-up can make you crash against the rocks.
It generally works best on higher tides, – we would say mid to high tide- since around mid to low and low tide can expose parts of the reef.
The best swells at Pedra Branca are west or south-west. Since it is a fast dropping wave that can easily barrel, Pedra Branca is popular with bodyboarders.
The wave demands attention and patience. One misread take-off or late paddle, and you’ll easily crash against the reef below.
Localism and crowds
Because of the narrow take-off zone, Pedra Branca feels easily crowded. The wave sees mostly experienced locals and bodyboarders. Even on busy days, the line-up is made up of people who know the wave and respect each other. It’s not a spot you come to casually; it’s one where respecting the locals and giving space is essential.
Access and services
The main access to Pedra Branca, Backdoor and Reef is the same and is via the road in front of the camping of Ericeira. In 2024 they paved this road (used to be all unpaved) built a parking, and limited the access, so now you have to park a few meters up on the habilitated car park and walk down to the spot. You can also park on the big parking next to the entrance of the camping.
There are wooden stairs that lead you down to the beach, but sometimes they are damaged from winter storms. After the stairs, you will have to climb down a few rocks in the last section before you can step on the sand. To enter the water, be aware that the approach near the reef is rocky and uneven.
There are no facilities directly at the spot, the closest cafés and surf shops are a few meters away near the main road. For food, drinks, or supermarkets, just head into Ericeira, which is just a short 1 minute drive away. Public transport can get you close, but if you’re carrying surfboards and gear, a car makes things much easier.
Video: clean and big day at Pedra Branca
In the video below you can see some footage of a big and clean day, full of barrels, at Pedra Branca:
